2018 Volkswagen Jetta 5-Speed Manual Transmission: Car and Driver
Overview
The 2018 Volkswagen Jetta is a compact sedan that offers a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 150 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, or an optional eight-speed automatic transmission. The other engine option is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 210 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic transmission.
The Jetta’s interior is spacious and well-equipped, with a variety of features available, including a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and a premium audio system. The Jetta also comes with a variety of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring.
Performance
The Jetta’s 1.4-liter turbocharged engine provides adequate power for most driving situations. The engine is responsive and provides good acceleration, especially at low speeds. The six-speed manual transmission is smooth and easy to shift, and the clutch is light and easy to modulate. The Jetta’s handling is also impressive, with the car feeling agile and responsive. The steering is precise and provides good feedback, and the car corners well with minimal body roll.
The Jetta’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides more power than the 1.4-liter engine, and it offers even better acceleration. The engine is smooth and refined, and it provides plenty of power for passing and merging on the highway. The six-speed manual transmission is also smooth and easy to shift, and the clutch is light and easy to modulate. The Jetta’s handling is also impressive with the 2.0-liter engine, with the car feeling even more agile and responsive. The steering is precise and provides good feedback, and the car corners well with minimal body roll.
Fuel Economy
The Jetta’s fuel economy is good, with the 1.4-liter engine getting an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. The 2.0-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
Safety
The Jetta comes with a variety of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. The car also received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Pricing
The 2018 Volkswagen Jetta has a starting price of $18,595. The Jetta SEL Premium with the 2.0-liter engine and the six-speed manual transmission has a starting price of $25,595.
Conclusion
The 2018 Volkswagen Jetta is a well-rounded compact sedan that offers a variety of engine and transmission options, a spacious and well-equipped interior, and a variety of safety features. The Jetta’s 1.4-liter turbocharged engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, while the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides more power and even better acceleration. The Jetta’s fuel economy is good, and the car comes with a variety of safety features. Overall, the Jetta is a great choice for shoppers looking for a compact sedan that offers a good balance of performance, fuel economy, and safety.
