- Doors and Seats
4 doors, 5 seats
- Engine
2.0T, 4 cyl.
- Engine Power
147kW, 280Nm
- Fuel
Petrol (98) 8L/100KM
- Manufacturer
FWD
- Transmission
Auto (DCT)
- Warranty
3 Yr, 100000 KMs
- Ancap Safety
NA
Volkswagen Jetta 2.0 Turbo FSI
Grown-up Golf frisky at heart
Volkswagen is doing well in Australia these days thanks to a family of modern cars that are well-priced and specified. A good example is the new compact Jetta sedan launched here in February.
The replacement for the forgettable Bora offers three distinct models, significantly differentiated by what you find under the bonnet.
The entry-level has a 2.0-litre normally aspirated petrol engine, then it's a pricing step up to a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel. The flagship tested here is powered by a feisty 2.0-litre turbocharged and intercooled petrol engine.
It's the same 147 kW direct-injection (FSI) four-cylinder you'll find powering the latest Golf GTi model, a car that's been a big hit here.
Indeed, the 2.0 TFSI shares a lot more than its engine with the current Golf V generation. It is, like all Jettas, fundamentally a Golf with a boot.
That means Jetta grows significantly compared to the Bora. It sits on the same 2578 mm wheelbase as Golf and is also almost exactly the same width and height. It is 338 mm longer, however, to accommodate the substantial 527-litre boot.
That's bigger than Falcon or Commodore. Flexibility is aided by a rear seat that split-folds and ski-port. Underneath the boot floor is a full-size spare tyre, including alloy wheel.
That's indicative of a price and equipment package that is comprehensive and impressive.
There is only one TFSI model and it costs $39,990 plus on-road costs. A powered driver's seat and leather trim are the only obvious omissions.
It's not only the amount of gear in the TFSI that impresses, but the way it is presented. This feels and looks like a quality car. A classy three-spoke leather-wrap steering wheel, large and comfortable seats and a consistent feel to button and dial operation all help.
Storage is also well catered for with pockets, drawers and chillable glovebox and centre bin. And there is space in the rear to seat two adults in comfort.
The exterior has similarly up-market appeal. The deep V radiator grille encased in chrome looks more conservative than Golf. It's pleasing, overwhelmingly Teutonic, but with a hint of Alfa Romeo 156.
Once up and running, the TFSI loses its regal reserve and kicks up its heels. That's courtesy of a truly inspiring engine and the considerable talents of the twin-clutch DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) transmission.
There might be some turbo lag very low in the rev range, but it disappears almost as quickly as the tacho needle whips around the dial to its 6500 rpm redline.
Peak torque of 280 Nm is ever-present from 1800 to 5000 rpm, giving the driver a broad canvas on which to work.
VW claims a believable 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.2 seconds. An excellent 8.0 L/100 km fuel consumption average is also achievable, as long as you go lightly on the throttle. Be a lead foot and you can expect it to climb into the low teens. You'll pay for the pleasure, as this engine drinks 98 RON unleaded.
The DSG gearbox removes the clutch pedal but still delivers quick, concise manual shifts. In full auto mode it isn't quite so impressive, easily over-powering the front wheels in first gear and jerking through upward changes. Downward changes when pulling up can happen in a grumbly rush.
This behaviour seems at odds with the car's persona. So calm and clean inside and out yet somewhat frenetic to drive. The contradiction is emphasised by a firm suspension tune and low-profile tyres that are too harsh at lower speeds or on rougher highways. They detract from this car's commuting abilities, as much as they underline its sports sedan credentials.
On winding roads the TFSI is great fun, with a concise, faithful ability to go where it's pointed. One of its greatest strengths is uncorrupted electro-mechanical steering that resists torque steer. The downside is a lack of feel through the steering wheel.
Brake feel is another tactile weakness, but the disc brakes, supported by ABS, electronic brake distribution and brake assist, do their job - if somewhat woodenly.
The Jetta TFSI ends up being soothing, enthralling and confusing. It's a fine car, excellently priced and well equipped. But it is for small sedan shoppers after a focused sports experience. The slightly cheaper and softer turbo-diesel could be the better all-rounder.
What's it got?
Dual-zone climate control, cruise control, six-CD audio, remote central locking, steering wheel reach and height adjustment, front and rear fog lights, alloy wheels, trip computer, rear parking sensors, heated mirrors, sports front seats, leather-wrap steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake grip, chillable glove box and centre console, rain-sensing wipers.
What's missing?
Leather seat upholstery, powered driver's seat.