New 2022 Volkswagen Jetta receives a mid-cycle refresh

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta has brought affordable Teutonic engineering to America for more than forty years. During that time, it spent 30 years as VW’s best-selling model. For 2022, it has received a makeover, refreshing it with new styling and technology from the bottom to the top of the lineup. At Napleton News we have always been intrigued by the Jetta and decided to take a closer look.

What’s new on the new 2022 Volkswagen Jetta?

Let’s start with the Jetta’s motivation. The 1.5-liter turbocharged and direct-injection EA211 four-cylinder engine that made its debut in the new VW Taos is new in the Jetta. This 1.5-liter engine, which makes 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, mates to a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The good news is that torque comes on in the lower part of the powerband rather than at the top like many other imports.

On the Jetta GLI side of the equation, power comes from Volkswagen’s EA888 turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that makes 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of toe-curling torque to move you on your way. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is also available.

A Jetta Walkabout

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta is built on VW’s MQB platform, shared with other vehicles throughout the lineup. Taut surfaces and dynamic exterior lines give the Jetta an athletic coupe-like look that includes a sense of elegance.

The revised front end includes a new bumper and larger grille for both the upmarket GLI and the standard Jetta. Chrome trim and LED lighting lend themselves to a wrap-around look to help emphasize the Jetta’s wide stance. LED daytime running lights (DRL) are standard on the Jetta S trim, while the SEL includes twin projector LEDs.

The GLI features a legacy-like black honeycomb grille with a red accent stripe that helps to resemble the look of VW’s GTI. The sides of the new Jetta features a look that is more coupe-like than before. Acoustically-optimized panoramic glass is part of the optional sunroof for the SE but it’s standard on the SEL and GLI. Along the sides, chrome striping help to create a distinct greenhouse on the Jetta S, SE and SEL models. The Sport and GLI models do the same trick in black trim.

The Jetta exterior will be available in seven exterior hues, while the GLI will offer five different colors.

What about inside the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta?

Inside, the Jetta includes the standard Volkswagen Digital Cockpit and MIB infotainment screens. Sport contrast stitching lends a performance look to the seats, while the GLI model features a new leather-wrapped sport steering wheel. DSG models include paddle-shift levers, while SEL and GLI models include a 10-color ambient lighting system.

The Jetta models are known for their MIB Infotainment. The innovative MIB screen displays a capacitive-touch sensor similar to your smartphone or tablet for ease of use. With various available configurations, you can do everything from Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration, wireless App-connect, navigation and more. The SEL and GLI models feature a 9-speaker BeatsAudio system pushed by a 12-channel, 400-watt amplifier with digital signal processing and a subwoofer. It’s just the thing for audiophiles and those who prefer tunes to the sound of the Jetta’s exhaust note.

Volkswagen extras

Volkswagen Jetta and GLI buyers will enjoy a bumper-to-bumper New Vehicle Limited Warranty for four years or 50,000 miles. Subsequent owners can have the warranty transferred to their name. The Jetta also includes VW’s Carefree Maintenance Program which provides scheduled maintenance services for two years or 20,000 miles, whichever occurs first.

Contact your local Volkswagen dealership for more details and availability.