2015 Volkswagen Jetta facelift review, test drive

New VW Jetta looks more upmarket and gets updated engines. Is it a marked improvement? We take to the wheel.

Published on Feb 10, 2015 05:52:00 PM

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2015 Volkswagen Jetta facelift review, test drive

What's it like to drive?

The Jetta has always displayed a really good balance between relaxed comfort and high-speed stability, and that's exactly what shines through on this new car. The electric steering isn't bursting with feel, but it's fairly accurate, giving you a good degree of confidence. And the Jetta doesn't shy away from carrying a bit of speed through corners either. Even bump absorption is good, and you'll love the way this solidly built car muscles its way over bumps.

Buyers will also appreciate slight improvement in refinement of the engines. This is especially true of the diesel that has lost a lot of the gravelly, growly tone it possessed earlier. It now feels a bit smoother and freer revving, especially in the mid-range. It still feels strained when pulled hard though. And power and performance seem only sufficient, nothing more. A bit more power and performance surely would have gone down well.

Should you buy one?

The new VW Jetta slots in high on a list of cars that seem to have a good balance between appeal, practicality and desirablility. The new design of the car makes it more attractive to look at, the updated engines are a bit nicer and the build of the car is something you are likely to appreciate every day. It has a very comfortable rear seat and the huge boot adds to practicality as well. Yes, more power would have been nice and the Jetta is missing a petrol automatic, but if you want a no nonsense car that delivers plenty of comfort and decent amount of luxury, VW's bestseller has plenty of the right stuff.