There is no dearth of Cars in the compact sedan category in the US. The Volkswagen Jetta has been in production for 40 years now and VW decided to bring an all-new generation for 2020. The 2020 Jetta is the 7th Generation of the Jetta and is based on VW’s famed MQB (Modularer Querbaukasten in German) or Modular Transversal Matrix platform. Thanks to this platform, the Jetta has grown in Length, Width, and Height over its predecessor. VW has also added a host of Features into the 7th Gen Jetta that compliments VW’s tagline for the Jetta- BETTA GETTA JETTA.
Semi-independent rear torsion beam suspension w/anti-roll bar
brake rotors (f/r)
60.7/60.4
dimensions
wheelbase
105.7 in.
length
185.1 in.
width
70.8 in.
height
57.4 in.
curb weight
2888 lbs.
ground clearance
5.6 in.
capacity
passenger volume
40.3 cu ft.
payload capacity
970 lbs.
performance
zero to 60 mph
7.7 sec.
fuel economy
city/combined/highway
30/34/40 mpg
highway range
528 mi.
warranty
basic warranty
6 yr. / 72000 mi.
drivetrain warranty
6 yr. / 72000 mi.
powertrain warranty
72 months. / 72000
corrosion warranty
7 yr. / 100000 mi.
roadside assistance
3 yr. / 36000 mi.
Pictures
exterior
interior
Colors and Styles
Black Uni
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Cars like the Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cruze and the Honda Civic have long dominated this Segment. Volkswagen wants to grab a slice of the same pie with its all-new 7th Generation Jetta.
Starting at $18,545, the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta has quite a lot to offer. It gets a 1.4L Turbocharged Gasoline Motor that belts out 147Hp and 184lbs-ft of Torque. The Jetta is also one of the few cars in the segment that comes with the option of a Slick Manual Transmission as well. 5 Trims are on offer namely the S, SE, R-Line, SEL and SEL Premium which goes up over $27,000.
2020 Volkswagen Jetta Front Three-quarter View
2020 Volkswagen Jetta Rear Three-quarter View
8.0/10 Features
6.4/10 Engine and Performance
7.0/10 Fuel Economy
7.5/10 Interior
5.5/10 Exterior
2020 Volkswagen Jetta Features
8.0/10
Starting at just $18,545 for the base S Variant, the 2020 Jetta is available in a total of 5 trims namely the S, SE, R-Line, SEL and the top of the Line SEL Premium. The Base variant comes with some great standard features like Powered Side Mirrors, Automatic LED Headlights with LED DRL’s, LED Tail Lights and more.
Trim
S(Manual)
SE
R-Line
SEL
SEL Premium
MSRP
$18,545(est.)
$22,155(est.)
$22,995(est.)
$24,415(est.)
$26,945(est.)
Key
Features
· Power Operated Side Mirrors
· Adds to the Features from the ‘S’ Trim
Adds/Upgrades features from ‘SE’
Adds/Upgrades features from ‘R-Line’
Adds/Upgrades features from ‘SEL’
Automatic LED Headlights with LED DRL
Leather wrapped steering and Seats
Black Grill Accents, Side Mirrors, Rear Sport Valance
Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers
Side Mirrors with Memory Function
LED Tail Lights
Start Stop System
Black Headliner
VW Digital Cockpit
VW Car Net Security
16” Rama Alloy Wheels
Keyless Access with Push Button Start
17” Trenton Alloy Wheels
Adaptive Cruise Control
17” Tornado Metallic Alloy Wheels
Cruise Control
Dual Zone Climate Control
XDS Cross Differential
Drive Mode Selector
Sport Bolstered Comfort Seats
Multi-Function Steering wheel
Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert
Fog Lamps with low speed Corner Illumination Feature
Auto Dimming inside Rear View Mirror
Front Seats with adjustable lumbar support
6 Way Manually Adjustable Driver’s Seat
Heated Front Seats
Center Arm Rest on the Rear Seats
Sirius XM Radio with 3 Months Subscription
6 way power adjust driver seat with Memory
VW Car Net App Connect
Power Sliding Panoramic Sunroof
R-Line Badging on Front Grill
High Beam Assist
Front Collision Warning
60/40 split folding Rear Seat
1 Front USB and 1 USB Charging port
Ventilated Front Seats
USB Port with Bluetooth for Audio Streaming
10 Color Customizable Interior Lighting
6.5” Touchscreen Infotainment System with Rear View Camera
8” Touchscreen System with Voice Control and Proximity Sensor
6 Airbags
Beats Audio System
ABS with EBD, ESC and Tire Pressure Monitor
Lane-Keeping System
We Recommend
At roughly $18,500, the base S trim is a good buy for people who are tight on budget. We, however, would suggest the SE trim for the added safety and convenience features on offer. Young buyers will, however, lean towards the R-Line which adds a “Dark” theme to the Jetta at an extra of just $800.
2020 Volkswagen Jetta Engine and Performance
6.4/10
Throttle response is excellent, with almost no lag, as the turbo four is tuned for low-end grunt. Its 184 lb-ft of peak torque comes at just 1400 rpm, making the Jetta seem like a much more powerful car, an illusion it can maintain right up until encountering a freeway on-ramp –Caranddriver.com
The engine in the VW Jetta is one of the most “Lively” in the class. Response from the Turbocharged 1.4L 147hp engine is crisp and precise and is probably one of the best in class. The massive 184lbs-ft of Torque also adds to the driving experience and makes the Engine feel at ease, most of the times.
The 2020 Volkswagen Jetta gains more Horsepower than its previous generation and also improves on overall efficiency. One of the best bits about the Engine is the fact that it can run on regular unleaded gasoline, unlike its competitors that run only on premium fuel.
Models
Volkswagen Jetta S Sedan
Toyota Corolla L Sedan
Honda Civic LX Sedan
Mazda 3 Sport Sedan
Hyundai Elantra Sedan SE
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan LS
MSRP
$20,240
$19,620
$21,145
$20,035
$18,985
$20,400
Engine
1.4L Turbo Inline 4
1.8 L inline-four
2.0 L inline-four
2.0 L inline-four
2.0 L inline-four
1.4L Turbo Inline 4
Transmission
8 Speed Automatic
CVT
CVT
6-speed Auto
6-speed Automatic
6 Speed Automatic
Horsepower
147hp@5000rpm
132hp @ 6000 rpm
158hp @ 6500 rpm
155hp @ 6000 rpm
147hp @ 6200 rpm
153hp@5600rpm
Torque
184lbs-ft@1400rpm
128 lb-ft@4400
138 lb.-ft @ 4200 rpm
150 lb.-ft. @4000 rpm
132 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm
177lbs-ft@2000-4000
The Turbocharged Motor in the VW delivers the Maximum Torque in this comparison and the 8-speed Automatic Transmission, adds to the European Driving Experience that the VW is known for.
There is a Manual Transmission on offer in the VW as well in the base variant for people, who want a more Connected Driving Experience with the Jetta. The Transmission, in general, is pretty decent on shifts and usually shifts at around 4,000rpm. The Manual is redlined at 6,400rpm while the Automatic Variant redlines at around 6,000rpm.
Acceleration
Given the Turbocharged Motor inside the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta, the acceleration timings of the Jetta ranks among the best in class. With the German refinement and Power in hand, the Jetta turns out to be a good daily driver and making overtaking maneuvers when in the right gear.
Models
Volkswagen Jetta
Toyota Corolla Sedan
Honda Civic Sedan
Mazda 3 Sedan
Hyundai Elantra Sedan
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan
0-60 MPH(sec)
7.7
9.4
8.2
8.0
8.3
7.7
Quarter mile(sec)
16.0
17.2
16.3
16.2
16.4
16.3
Emission
(Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)
5.2
9.8
8.4
11.2
10.2
5.6
Curb Weight (lbs.)
2959
2840
2742
2899
2767
2870
The Turbocharger in the Jetta also gives it an advantage in terms of the Emissions as the Exhaust gases are well utilized by the Turbo, to generate less polluting exhaust gases.
Ride and Handling
Prospective customers, looking to buy a Jetta would expect a Typical European ride out of the Jetta. Well, in reality though the Jetta isn’t on the same levels.
The Suspension setup on the Jetta is less sophisticated than what the rivals have to offer. The Jetta tends to bounce over speed humps more than you would expect it to. The Ride isn’t unsettling in any way but it’s just that the German Flair that one expects from the Jetta is lacking.
The MQB platform though has significantly changed the Way the Jetta handles. The handling is tilted towards the Sportier side and the Low profile Tires add to the drama of driving the Jetta. The Steering is Lightweight and is quick to respond to inputs.
Braking
One of the big letdowns in the 7th Generation Jetta has to be its brakes. The Brakes in the Jetta are the biggest in this comparison but the weight of the Jetta seems to be a hindrance in the braking performance of the Jetta.
Models
Volkswagen Jetta Sedan
Toyota Corolla Sedan
Honda Civic Sedan
Mazda 3 Sedan
Hyundai Elantra Sedan
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan
Brake Front (in.)
11.5
10.8
10.2
10.7
10.3
10.8
Brake Rear (in.)
10.8
9.1
9.8
9.5
9.7
10.4
70-0 MPH (ft.)
191
183
180
179
182
110(60-0MPH)
The Jetta takes the highest distance to come to a halt form 70MPH by a big margin as compared to the competitors. The ESP and Traction Control do offer confidence and reduces the wobbliness of the Car when braking hard.
2020 Volkswagen Jetta Fuel Economy
7.0/10
The 2020 Volkswagen Jetta’s Turbocharged is not only good on performance but good on efficiency as well. It has one of the best MPG figures in the segment and the efficient gearing, allows the VW to squeeze out the maximum efficiency from the 1.4L Motor.
Models
Volkswagen Jetta Sedan
Toyota Corolla Sedan
Honda Civic Sedan
Mazda 3 Sedan
Hyundai Elantra Sedan
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan
MPG (city)
30
28
32
27
28
30
MPG (highway)
39
35
42
36
37
39
MPG (combined)
34
31
36
30
32
33
Fuel Tank Capacity(Gal.)
13.2
13.2
12.39
13.2
14
13.7
The 34 MPG combined Fuel average is second to only the Honda Civic but the VW redeems itself in the overall range. The VW with its 13.2 gallon Fuel Tank delivers a range of 448.8 while the Civic, with its 13.2 delivers only 446.04.
2020 Volkswagen Jetta Interior
7.5/10
Volkswagen’s somewhat tarnished reputation for building nice interiors receives something of a polishing, as the new Jetta has more soft-touch surfaces than the outgoing car, including nicely padded armrests and front-door inserts –Caranddriver.com
Seating and Comfort
One of the reasons why the MQB platform of the VW group has become famous is the Increase in Interior Space. The MQB in the VW Jetta has created a similar impact in the 7th Gen Jetta as well. The Steering Pedals have been well positioned while the Steering is in the right position.
The Interior layout is typical German in Build. Customers won’t see many Inconsistencies or Panel gaps in the interiors of the Jetta and will be thoroughly impressed by the quality of materials used.
The Seats have been given better bolstering and cushioning than the previous-gen car and have been made more ergonomic.
Models
VW Jetta Sedan
Toyota Corolla Sedan
Honda Civic Sedan
Mazda 3 Sedan
Hyundai Elantra Sedan
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan
Passenger capacity
5
5
5
5
5
5
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)
38.5/55.9/41.1
38.3/54.8/42.3
39.3/57.0/37.1
38.3/54.8/42.3
38.8/56.2/42.3
38.9/54.8/42
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)
37.2/54/37.4
37.1/55.0/37.4
37.1/55.0/37.4
37.6/54.4/35.8
37.3/55.0/35.7
37.3/53.7/36.1
Passengers in the Front seat will enjoy the Space liberated via the use of the MQB platform in the Jetta. The headroom is decent for most passengers while the Shoulder room and Legroom will be something, the customers won’t complain about.
Similar Story exists for the Rear as well wherein, customers will get oodles of Space to comfortably rest their Bodies while on long drives.
Cargo Capacity
The Expanded Interior Storage of the 2020 Jetta has caused a minuscule reduction in the cargo space of the Jetta. This is in no way can be called Small and is still comparable and better to what most rivals offer.
Models
VW Jetta
Honda Civic
Mazda 3
Toyota Corolla Sedan
Hyundai Elantra
Chevrolet Cruze
Cargo Capacity (cu.ft)
14.1
15.2
12.4
13.0
14.4
14.8
The Honda Civic offers the Best Cargo space due to its Compact Interiors however, the Jetta is not behind as it offers 14.1 cu ft. of Space. This coupled with Increased Cubby Holes and Storage compartments in the Cabin makes the Jetta, a very practical sedan.
Infotainment System
VW has improved the Infotainment System in the new 2020 Jetta. A 6.5” Touchscreen infotainment System comes in standard in the Base S, SE and R-Line trims. It is positioned towards the driver and offers excellent reach and feedback to the driver. An utterly disappointing feature in the Jetta is the lack of USB ports in the Starting 3 Trims. The S, SE and R-Line trims just do with 1 USB port and we feel that in the current age of Connectivity, VW could have done more.
Interior Features
65” Digital Cockpit Display
8” Navigation System
Beats Audio System
VW Car-Net Car Security
VW App-Connect with Android Auto and Apple Car Play support
10 Color Customizable Ambient Lighting
Panoramic Sunroof
Heated and Ventilated Seats
2020 Volkswagen Jetta Exterior
5.5/10
The new Jetta is slightly longer, wider and taller than the outgoing model, with a longer wheelbase and shorter overhangs. The exterior styling is more distinctive, with sharp character lines, a larger grille, and a much larger presence on the road –Edmunds.com
Design
Volkswagens of the past have always been criticized for their Boring and Dull Exteriors and Styling. With the 7th Generation of the Jetta, VW has tried to change this reputation of theirs by incorporating better design and character.
The Design is not offensive or aggressive unlike the competition but tends to stay Non offensive. The Looks may still be conservative but will attract more attention than the previous generation model
There are Sharp lines across the bonnet of the Sedan that offers some Flair to the otherwise “Subtle” front. The Standard LED Headlamps do tend to grab attention of On Lookers but Young Buyers may not feel the same.
Dimensions and Weight
The 7th Gen Jetta has changed heavily in terms of Weights and Dimensions, after the incorporation of the MQB platform. It has grown considerably bigger over its previous generation avatar owing to the same fact. The Grill has grown bigger than before, with a more prominent VW Logo in the front.
The Wheelbase has grown to 105.7 Inch while the overall length has grown to 185.1 Inch. This overall increase in Length has liberated more space in the interiors however, the Cargo Space has reduced by 2 Cubic Feet to 14.
Model
VW Jetta
Toyota Corolla Sedan
Honda Civic Sedan
Mazda 3 Sedan
Hyundai Elantra Sedan
Chevrolet Cruze Sedan
Curb weight (lbs.)
2767
2840
2724
2899
2844
2870
Length(in)
185.1
183.1
182.3
180.3
181.9
183.7
Width(in)
70.8
69.9
70.8
70.7
70.9
70.5
Height(in)
57.4
57.3
55.7
57.3
56.5
57.4
Ground clearance (in)
5.6
6.7
6.3
6.1
5.3
6.4
Wheelbase (in)
105.7
106.3
106.3
106.3
106.3
106.3
The Jetta is now the Longest Sedan in this Comparison courtesy of the MQB platform. The Tall Height of the Jetta allows Tall passengers to be accommodated comfortably in the Cabin. One downside to the new design however is the low ground clearance, which means you will have to be little bit careful while going over speed bumps.
Exterior Features
The Exterior of the 7th Generation Jetta has features like LED Headlamps and Tail Lamps as standard on the base trim, which no other Sedan in this comparison has. Some other exterior features in the lineup include
LED Headlights
LED Daytime Running Lamps
LED Tail Lights and License plate Lights
Powered Side Mirrors with Memory Function
Rain Sensing Windshield wipers
Heated Side Mirrors
Fog Lights with low-speed corner illuminating feature
17” Alloy Wheels
Powered Sunroof
2020 Volkswagen Jetta Safety
Some Safety Features in the VW Jetta include:
ABS with EBD and Hydraulic Brake Assist
Electronic Stability Control with Anti Slip Regulation
Electronic Differential Locking and Engine Brake Assist
Driver and Front Passenger Front and Side Thorax Airbag
Front and Rear Side Curtain and Head Protection Airbag
Front Seatbelt with pre tensioners and load limiters
LATCH child seat anchor points
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
2020 Volkswagen Jetta Competition
2020 Volkswagen Jetta vs. Honda Civic Sedan
The Honda Civic is the Benchmark of the Compact Sedan Segment because of multiple reasons. It has a powerful engine that feels refined and delivers good fuel efficiency. It also offers tremendous space inside the Cabin and in Cargo area as well.
The VW on the other hand offers Unmatched Build Quality, something that even the Japanese have to match. The VW offers features like LED head lamps and Tail Lights as standard in the base variant which is a feature unheard of in this segment. Most importantly, the VW is cheaper than the Honda by $1,000 which makes it good value.
2020 Volkswagen Jetta vs. Mazda Mazda3 Sedan
The Mazda Mazda3 has been the top pick among the buyers in the compact sedan segment for its amazing ride and handling characteristics. The Mazda has great sporting credentials and it instigates enthusiastic driving in the driver. The Mazda however is yet to get a 2020 edition and for now, it’s starting to feel dated.
The VW on the other hand is a fresher design, higher cargo capacity and superb build quality to help its cause. The VW is also the cheaper among the 2 and has the edge in terms of features offered in the various trims as well.
2020 Volkswagen Jetta vs. Toyota Corolla Sedan
The Toyota Corolla has been the most selling car in the compact sedan segment for a while now. People have loved the Corolla’s reliability, practicality, low cost of maintenance and economy. The Corolla, however, is starting to look dated in design and is failing to attract young buyers. Toyota plans to address this with the 2020 Corolla but it is a story for another day.
As of now, despite being cheaper than the VW, the Corolla doesn’t offer the Driving excitement or enthusiasm of the Jetta. It also doesn’t feel as well built as the Jetta and doesn’t feel as consistent in design as the VW. The VW also has the best Bumper to Bumper warranty in America and the Corolla also doesn’t match the Jetta in terms of features offered.
2020 Volkswagen Jetta Final Verdict
VW has given a new lease of life to the Jetta which has been in production since 40 years. The 7th Generation Jetta, with the MQB platform offers big space on the Inside and better structural rigidity and consistency to the Jetta.
Starting at just $18,500 and with standard features like LED Head lamps, Tail lights and a big touchscreen infotainment system, the VW packs in a lot of value.
With the Sturdy German Build Quality and Superb Consistency in design of the Exteriors and the Interiors, it’s difficult to go wrong with the 2020 Jetta and which is why, we feel it’s a Good proposition to go for.