Volkswagen Jetta Preview

CarAdvice is at the launch of the all-new Volkswagen Jetta in Melbourne today.

The new model represents the sixth generation of the Jetta nameplate, which debuted as a Golf Mk1-based compact sedan and coupe in 1979. Over the past 32 years, almost 10 million Jettas have been sold around the world.

With the all-new model, Volkswagen is aiming to shake the vehicle’s ‘Golf with a boot’ image.

Compared with the previous model, the new Jetta has grown substantially. Measuring 4740mm, the new four-door sedan is 190mm longer than before, making it just 30mm shorter than its traditional big brother, the Passat.

The new model is one of the last vehicles in Volkswagen’s line-up to evolve from the previous round, bulbous styling direction to the current, squarer design language.

The Jetta is perhaps the most conservatively styled of the new crop, although the look is still modern and attractive. The exterior now shares more in common with the Passat than the Golf, although the interior is almost a carbon copy of the popular hatchback.

Volkswagen Australia will confirm the full details of new Jetta range today, however we understand the new range will carry over at least two petrol engines – the 118kW/240Nm 1.4-litre and the 147kW/280Nm 2.0-litre – and at least one diesel – the 103kW/320Nm 2.0-litre.

Sales of the Jetta have slowed this year as demand for the old model waned and supply dried up. Just 498 have been registered in Australia so far. The Jetta’s most successful year was 2007, when more than 4000 were sold across the country.

In 2010, Volkswagen sold 2391 Jettas, giving it a 3.8 per cent share of the medium segment – just behind the Passat on 2603 units and a 4.2 per cent share.

Stay tuned for our complete first drive review and 60-second spin video.