New Volkswagen Jetta launched

The new Volkswagen Jetta is now available to order, with first customers set to receive their cars in December.

The new car has been restyled at both the front and back. The Jetta gets a redesigned nose, optional bright xenon headlights and updated fog lights mounted in the front bumper that come as standard on the top-of-the-range GT model. The nose features a revised front grille and reprofiled bumper beneath it.

The latest Jetta is 10 per cent more aerodynamic than the outgoing model and a small lip on the rear boot lid has also helped, in addition the changes at the front of the car. The rear also gets new lights, with LED versions available as an option.

Four engines will be available from launch. They are a 1.4-litre petrol engine producing 123bhp, a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 148bhp, and a 2.0-litre diesel engine that can be had with either 109bhp or 148bhp. The 109bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine with a five-speed manual gearbox will be the most economical option, returning figures of 70.6mpg and CO2 emissions of 105g/km.

The Jetta will come in three trim levels – entry-level S, mid-range SE and range-topping GT. Jetta S cars will get a digital radio, electronic stability control, electric windows and air-conditioning as standard, while ordering an SE spec car will add 16-inch alloy wheels, lumbar support for the seats, Bluetooth connectivity, an upgraded steering wheel and cruise control. Top-of-the-range GT cars come with even more kit, including lowered sports suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, sports seats and ambient interior lighting.

For the first time, the Jetta will be offered with driver aids such as blind spot detection, rear traffic alert and front assist with collision warning.

The Jetta isn't a particularly common sight on UK roads but in the US and China it’s Volkswagen’s biggest seller, so the new car is a significant one in terms of VW’s global sales.

The cheapest version of the Jetta, the 1.4-litre petrol model in S trim, costs £18,815 while the same car with the frugal 109bhp diesel engine starts from £20,095. A top-spec Jetta GT with the more powerful diesel engine and VW's DSG automatic gearbox begins at £24,715.

For reviews of cars in the current VW range, visit Carbuyer’s Volkswagen page.