2017 Volkswagen Jetta | CarGurus Test Drive Review

Volkswagen’s top seller, the Jetta compact sedan, ends its sixth generation in 2017 with a simpler lineup, more standard and optional safety features, and a standard reversing camera. The Jetta will take 2018 off before coming back in seventh-generation form for the 2019 model year, but while our reviewer finds the lineup’s pricing range wide enough to include great deals and overpriced ones, he calls this year’s car the best of the sixth generation.


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Sedans & Hatchbacks

[AbdonPhirathon]

The Jetta isn't as sporty or as updated as the competition, but the refinement and the engineering is miles better than the competition. Most of the Audi features trickle down to the Volkswagens and that's something that you won't see on any of the competition's offerings.

[palebeachbum]

I really like VWs for their handsome, mature aesthetics and European driving demeanor, but predicted reliability and repairs costs scare me away from the brand completely. Reliability, driver comfort (seat and ergonomics), and fuel economy are always my deciding factors.

[baldheadlogic]

Great review MP. If given the choice to buy this car or an mid level Passat, I would pick the Jetta hands down. I really how that the 7th gen finally puts in back the 5th levels of equipment and refinement.

[jahciple]

Best Jetta ever, I have a 2015 Jetta SE 1.8T. This engine surprises a lot of people.

[Aurora_v_cali]

um really strange seing my own house and friends house on a youtube vid

[heyitsme]

There's also an SEL Premium trim available for 2017. It has all of the features of the SEL but adds bi-xenon headlights and the fender premium audio system. It is only available in limited quantities and vw doesn't even have a webpage for this trim on their website. However, it can rarely be found at dealerships. And yes, it really is a 17 (not a 16) because the 17 SEL models have additional chrome trim on the trunk lid and on the bottom of the doors, that no previous model years had. Also, for 2016, the SEL Premium oddly didn't have xenon's. Only the SEL, Sport, and GLI SEL did. I test drove the 2017 SEL Premium and it was nice, I ended up just going for the S trim with the heated seats & alloy wheels packages though. More budget friendly.

[mfmf]

26k seems steep for a 170 hp Jetta. The GLI doesn’t make sense in a world with an Elantra Sport in it.

[aayonce]

Omg what! This is still sold as new? This thing need to get an overhaul

[swanblake]

Couldn't agree more with the nixing of the 1, .8L turbo option. Also not sure why the GLI is more than a faster GTI. Also no manual GLI or 2018. Can you get HID headlamps onthe Jetta in non GLI trims?

[stevehauk]

+CarGurus
3 BIG DESIGN FLAWS BY VW:
1. doors should be able to locked when warming the car up in the winter.

 2. it should not drive away with "no key" so it can't be stolen while warming up.

3. the clutch should be more to the left. It's right on top of the brake almost and I have to turn my left leg to the right uncomfortably!

[Bird-]

The SEL did come with the 1.4t.. at least here in the US

[swanblake]

The Elantra Sport has rendered the Jett pointless in my opinion. Same great German styling, better price, better features and performance, better reliability.

[cargogh]

Stylistically, the 2011's grill and tail lights are better looking than this. And I was disappointed with the 2011. I can't see 7 years of improvement.

[oaktown_]

Whats the best jetta year i can buy reliability wise ?

[Cali_Tali]

I wanted to get a GLI but I ended up getting a SEL instead. The 1.8T has plenty of power and is fun to drive. And i was able to get a good lease with VW's Sign and Drive special they have going on now.

[tyusrobinson]

Idk why safety tech is soo important to automotive journalists. People need to learn how to drive.🙄🙄

[Naza_]

Where I live this thing goes for $45k, much cheaper than the Camry which retails for $61k

[nolafishr]

The Jetta is a nice looking lil car, I wouldn't mind having one !

[aayonce]

What car(s) does this thing even compete with?

[CombatLegsVIDS]

I believe these safety features are so annoying and just add more stuff that can break down... Are people expected to be narcoleptic while driving the car? Is the ride that smooth that it lulls you to sleep? 😂🚗