Overview
The seventh-generation Volkswagen Jetta, specifically the models produced between 2022 and 2026, represents a refined approach to the compact sedan segment. Built upon the modular MQB platform, this iteration emphasizes efficiency and interior ergonomics. Volkswagen updated the lineup for the 2022 model year with a more powerful 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, replacing the previous 1.4-liter unit to provide improved torque delivery and highway fuel economy. This engine, part of the EA211 evo family, serves as the standard powerplant across the core trim levels, paired with either a manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic.
Manufacturing for the North American market primarily takes place at the Puebla assembly plant in Mexico. The vehicle maintains a conservative exterior design language, prioritizing aerodynamic efficiency and a spacious cabin layout. Inside, the Jetta features the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, which replaced traditional analog gauges, and an updated infotainment interface. By focusing on a balance between ride comfort and highway stability, the Jetta positions itself as a practical choice for commuters who prefer a traditional sedan profile over the increasing prevalence of compact crossovers.
| Vehicle Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta |
| Model Year | 2022-2026 |
| Generation | 7th (A7) |
| Trim | S, Sport, SE, SEL |
| Body Style | 4-door Sedan |
| Vehicle Segment | C-Segment |
| Vehicle Class | Compact Cars |
| Market | USA |
| Platform | MQB |
| Assembly Plant | Puebla, Mexico |
| Country of Origin | Mexico |
| Production Start | 2021 |
| Production End | – |
| VIN Identifier | 3VW |
| Base MSRP | $21,435 |
| Destination Charge | $1,225 |
| Total MSRP | – |
| Powertrain | |
| Powertrain Type | Internal Combustion Engine |
| Engine Family | EA211 evo |
| Engine Name | 1.5L TSI |
| Engine Code | – |
| Engine Configuration | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 1,498 cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 74.5 mm x 85.9 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged |
| Fuel Delivery | Direct Injection |
| Valve Train | DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
| Engine Block Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Cylinder Head Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Oil Capacity | 4.2 qt |
| Oil Specification / Viscosity | VW 508 00 / 0W-20 |
| Horsepower | 158 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Automatic (S8) |
| Final Drive Ratio | – |
| Axle Ratio | – |
| Fuel Economy | |
| Fuel Type | Regular Gasoline |
| Recommended Octane | 87 |
| EPA City MPG | 30 |
| EPA Highway MPG | 40 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 34 |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | 6.9 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) | 13.2 |
| Estimated Driving Range | 450 miles |
| Annual Fuel Cost | $1,450 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 260 g/mile |
| Greenhouse Gas Score | 7 |
| Smog Rating | 5 |
| Performance | |
| 0-30 mph | 2.8 s |
| 0-60 mph | 7.1 s |
| 0-100 mph | 19.5 s |
| Quarter Mile | 15.5 s |
| Top Speed | 127 mph |
| Braking Distance (60-0 mph) | 124 ft |
| Lateral Acceleration | 0.84 g |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 0.054 hp/lb |
| Dimensions & Capacities | |
| Length (in) | 186.5 |
| Width (Without Mirrors) (in) | 70.8 |
| Width (With Mirrors) (in) | 81.5 |
| Height (in) | 57.7 |
| Wheelbase (in) | 105.7 |
| Front Track (in) | 60.6 |
| Rear Track (in) | 60.4 |
| Ground Clearance (in) | 5.5 |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 2,950 |
| GVWR (lbs) | 4,000 |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | – |
| Payload Capacity (lbs) | 1,050 |
| Passenger Volume (cu ft) | 94.7 |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) | 14.1 |
| Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft) | – |
| Turning Circle | 36.4 ft |
| Approach Angle | – |
| Departure Angle | – |
| Breakover Angle | – |
| Safety Ratings | |
| NHTSA Overall Rating | 5 Stars |
| NHTSA Frontal Crash | 4 Stars |
| NHTSA Side Crash | 5 Stars |
| NHTSA Rollover | 4 Stars |
| IIHS Award | Top Safety Pick |
| Small Overlap Front | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front | Good |
| Side Impact | Good |
| Headlights Rating | Acceptable |
| Front Crash Prevention | Superior |
| Technology & Connectivity | |
| Infotainment Display | 8.0-inch Touchscreen |
| Instrument Cluster | 8.0-inch Digital Cockpit |
| Apple CarPlay | Standard |
| Android Auto | Standard |
| Navigation System | Available |
| Audio System | BeatsAudio (Optional) |
| Speaker Count | 6 |
| Wireless Charging | Available |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | Available |
| OTA Updates | Limited |
| Digital Key | – |
| Warranty & Ownership | |
| Basic Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Corrosion Warranty | 7 years / 100,000 miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 2 years / 20,000 miles |
| Specs.Autos Exclusive Data | |
| Engine Assembly Plant | Silao, Mexico |
| Transmission Supplier | Aisin |
| Gear Ratios | – |
| Differential Type | Open |
| Cooling System Capacity | 7.5 qt |
| Roof Load Capacity (lbs) | 165 |
| Safety Recall Count | – |
| Production Volume | – |
| Units Sold in USA | – |
Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The 2022-2026 Volkswagen Jetta is widely regarded for its highway efficiency and composed ride quality, making it a strong contender in the used compact sedan market. Owners generally report high satisfaction with the fuel economy of the 1.5L TSI engine, though prospective buyers should monitor the electronic systems and infotainment stability, as occasional software glitches have been noted. Mechanically, the Aisin eight-speed automatic is considered reliable, provided the transmission fluid is serviced at recommended intervals. While the interior materials are functional rather than luxurious, the vehicle offers a mature driving experience that distinguishes it from more aggressively styled competitors. Its value proposition remains high for those seeking a German-engineered daily driver that avoids the premium pricing of luxury-branded compacts.
