Just snagged one in black. Next step is a turbo-back and bigger wheels with more grippy AW tires! The back seat is massive, the trunk is massive, and it's way quicker than it leads you to believe. The interior is lack luster but it's one hell of a drive on the highway for $19K.
Thank you for this great review on the 2015 VW Jetta SE 1.8. I really respect your opinion. I considered different compact cars and this one seem to be the best choice. I test drove a Jetta this week and I was very impressed by the performance, the suspension and quality. It is very spacious and comfortable inside, nice size trunk and it feels well made (I like the sound the doors make when I close them). I ended up purchasing the car in automatic and the transmission feels very smooth in all three modes "D", "Sport" and "Tiptronic". I am very happy so far with this vehicle.
I have the 1.8T and I can tell you.. once I put the V-nitro shell in it.. just keep your gear in S mode.. for the money I paid.. yeah.. I keep my dignity for not moving to toyota again.
I also put Shell Gold V NItro in my 2015 Jetta 1.8 TSI and it really wakes the car up.. I can feel a difference in power, and about 1 liter per 100 better economy.. and runs smoother.. worth the difference in price to me
Leased this car last week. Got the 1.8 turbocharge engine with connectivity. Compared it to the Mazda. The Jetta has better performance and ride, simply better than any car in its class. Yes, it is plain on the inside, but the controls are functional, well laid out and practical. Really fun to drive on highway and in the city. Has a lot of interior space with good visibility. Not flashy which I prefer.
Can everyone STOP complaining about the 5 speed manual? VW even said the 6spd was their first choice but it got worse fuel economy in city and highway loops than their 5 spd. Besides, the 5spd revs lower than the 6spd on the highway. My 2015 Golf 1.8t revs at just below 2,000rpms a 70mph.
buildmorefarms100 So far, fanastic. Doing mostly highway I'm averaging well over 40mpg. And when I get it revving, its a ton of fun in any situation whether I'm in town or a mountain road. I just wish the bumper paint was a bit better since I got too close with a pressure washer, and it completely stripped off a huge section of clear coat. VW might be covering it under warranty but I'll see in August. Best advice: Get 3M! I didn't right away and I'm regretting it big time!
+Brandon Friesen I've seen you comment on several videos about the VW Jetta and Mazda 3. May I ask your opinion on what current compact car would be best for a 6'10" individual; I need good fuel economy but I also need a large interior. I've read many of the achievements and complaints about various models and think that the VW Jetta and Mazda 3 are equally attractive. I live in a climate where winter stalling won't be a problem. The 2016 VW Jetta Sport 1.8T has better infotainment in my opinion with Android Auto and Apple carplay but the 2016 Mazda 3 grand touring has better fuel economy and on paper performance. In your experience what vehicle has better real world fuel economy, performance and reliability?
David Lyday Id say the Jetta for someone as tall as you are would be hard to get into. I am 6'4 and need to put the seat pretty low down to have my head clear. My golf has a bit more headroom. The mazda3 is the same as the Jetta. For fuel economy, the skyactivs are okay, they're good for city drivers. On the highway they don't have much torque so they have to work hard which makes fuel economy suffer, rather than the 1.8t where it can be at 1,500rpm and be lugging up a hill no problem at all. Reliability is about the same. Skyactivs haven't proven to be that reliable so far and VW's can have their electrical issues, if you get a bad one. If you get a good one, it'll last forever. And for performance, definitely the Golf/Jetta. They're pretty quick.
I have a 2015 Jetta 1.8 TSI with the 6 speed automatic and I love it, lots of low end grunt , feels comfortable and secure on the highway... easy to beat 40 mpg on the hwy in the summer without hypermiling, 43 us MPG (5.4 Liters/100km) if really trying, ave 60 mph (96.5 km/h)
I have the 2016 Jetta sport fully loaded it's has everything I wanted I was ready to buy an older C class Mercedes (2010) it didn't have the navigation system in it but this one came with the navigation system etc I'm truly in love with this car
I appreciate the fact it seems so generic, and no frills. I will be the one servicing it - minor and major - for its lifetime, and it gives me good feelings that there are not a million things waiting to go wrong. These space age cars are beginning to look ridiculous, and all look alike. This one is a clear winner. What first attracted me was the power to price ratio. Now, I'm loving the rest of it. Hoping to see one tomorrow....
It must have been Groundhog day when Nathan recorded this -- I just kept having this feeling of deja-vu when he described where the magic of the car is. ;-)
I test drove the '15 Accord DX with the 6 speed manual. The first 5 gears were identical to my '93 Accord, which revved 3,000 rpm at 70 mph in fifth. The 6th gear brought it to about 2,600 at 70. In the midwest and the west, speed limits are 75 and 80 mph, so the old Honda was really revving. The Jetta SE 1.8 TSI 5 speed revved 2,000 rpm at 80 mph, not 70! Additionally, the 184fp of torque is there from 1,500 rpm to 4,750 rpm. So you can drive at 1,500 rpm in 5th. FWIW, the 1.4 TSI has the same torque characteristics as the 1.8, but 20 fewer HP for a 150 HP total.
Been a VW fan since the eighties and traditionally they have always been no bullshit cars with Spartan interiors. It was all about the performance and driving experience, not cheesy gadgetry. Just wish that they would bring back the VR6 motor In a manual.
In a sense, this car is hilarious, no USB port- the engine size is back down from 2.0 to 1.8 and I dare say even the old 1.8ts made more hp, the tires are back to being fat, the Trans has gone down from 6 back to 5... And I LOVE IT! I own a TDI now, one of many, and I feel like it's 2006 all over again! But NOW the 1.8t gets awesome mpg and SHOULD BE WAY better than those old ones. I really think VW had a good thing going back then, I'm so sick of every new car coming out having more hp and a bigger engine and 10 gears and with this fuel economy and preformance from the 1.8t I may just have to test drive this now. Thank you VW. Sincerely. Thank you so much, I just got back from test driving some used wranglers now that I'm 27 and can afford a new car, but now I may just stick with VW. I'm so tired of change. All we've had is change. Let's just concentrate on making what we have better and not trying to invent a replacement every years Thanks Nathan! Maybe I'll drop by the VW dealer tomorrow!
***** I've onwed over 40 cars in the last 10 years of my life... 25% of which have been vw's TDI's 1.8'ts and 2.0's... i'd fare to say that would make me a decent authority on them, aside from being an Audi mechanic. But yeah, like you said, to each his own. Good luck with that.
***** I forgot clearly it must "SUCK" a whole hell of a lot more to pay $2500 for a transmission that lasts 200k miles than $10,000 for a 27 speed transmission that just came out last year and breaks at 90k miles.
Bought one. 1.8 TSI "Connectivity". All of the Good points you hit on were why I did it. I drive my buddies and coworkers, "Wow, a Jetta?!" Yeah, feels like a C250.." Got it loaded..
The most efficient numbers I've gotten from my 2015 Jetta are 46.2 miles per gallon and 42.6 miles per gallon. The 46.2 I got while I'm cruise control and going downhill for the most part on the highway 😁. Usually I get into the 30s on the highway
I own this car but auto . Just love it . 50,000 miles now . 34 mpg city 39 hwy . Yeah i wish i had leather and a few other things . Its a great feel on the road , plenty of power and its simple .
My 2014 1.8t has 137000 miles and still runs perfect. Everything he says about the car is true. Very fast very good handling great mileage. Could not be happier especially for how cheap these are to buy. Too bad VW didn't follow the same formula for the redesign in 2019
Don't forget to change the Timing Belt at about 105k. This is an interference engine which means if the Timing belt breaks, the valves crash into the pistons and the engine is toast.
Own one of theses and I enjoy smoking bmws and audis and Honda’s in my hometown. Love it got it for my 18th bday, and I’m 18 and half rn answering any questions
VW and Audi have always done "face-lifts" to their cars. When the sales start falling a bit (or mid generation) they do small redesigns, fix things people don't like, and often add some styling ques too keep their cars fresh for consumers. Re-designing a car every few years is way over the top and costly. I think the current VW line up is refreshingly simplistic and elegant, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder...
One advantage is that my 2015 Jetta still looks new in 2021... I parked it next to a 2020 Golf I was considering at the VW dealership and they almost looked the same! Lol 😆
I have a 2014 SE which has the updated 1.8L engine and I just love it. If you get a cream interior like mine it actually makes the inside two toned which looks nicer than the solid grey or black. The trunk is indeed huge as is the back seat; plenty of leg room. The only thing I wish it came with is VW's 4MOTION but I guess I'll have to eventually trade up to an Audi for AWD. I actually think I prefer the old front fascia on mine compared to the updates they made to the 2015 model.
Dude, it's not rocket Science lol The reason VW didn't put a 6-Speed Manual in this model, like the GLI , is because they didn't want to have overlapping products ( for Marketing reasons ) with very similar features between the Sport Model and the GLI. In other words, they need need to be able to justify the Retail price difference between this model and their "Halo" Jetta in the GLI model.
Personally, I'd go with the Mazda 3. I think the interior is better, exterior is more refreshing, and with the SkyActive technology you get more HP and slightly better fuel consumption.
YoungMC34 You actually don't get more hp. This 1.8t actually produces 199hp to the wheels as measured by APR on 87 octane. Mazda's biggest engine, the 2.5, makes 184 and it definitely doesn't feel like that much. In cold starts, the Skyactiv engines struggle, on my dealership lot I had to move a whole row of 2015 M3's to clear snow and only 5 started out of 20. The 2.5 is also harder on fuel and has a very short torque band so you need to rev it to get going. The VW 1.8t is a much better engine. If I had to buy a Mazda, I'd go for the 2.0L since it is efficient and can still move out of it's own way. I bought a 2015 Golf and do wish I had the Mazda's infotainment system, though.
Brandon Friesen Interesting. I didn't know the 1.8t offered that much. I've heard that some owners of the Mazda 3 with the SkyActive did have trouble, I didn't know they were that bad in the cold though. I guess that explains why Mazda dealerships up here in Boston are offering some great deals to get them off the lot, and also why I don't see too many new generation Mazdas on the road. I like the infotainment system and interior of the Mazda 3, but I didn't like the lack of headroom. I'm not a tall person at all, and I had very little head clearance.
YoungMC34 I do love the M3, don't get me wrong. But the technology and engines in it, are not to my liking, besides the infotainment system which is awesome. So far my Golf has been getting 33.7mpg and my best is 35.6mpg. I only have 3,700kms on it. I would've bought an M3 only if I could get the 2.0L 6spd. with Bose Audio, Leather, Bi-Xenon lights and dual zone climate control. If I could get that, I would've definitely gotten that car. I drove one around town all day the other day and recorded over 40mpg. My Golf says it gets over 40mpg but actual calculations don't show that. I wish I bought a cheaper VW though. I paid over $30,000, while I could've gotten a Jetta for $22,000 for the features I'd like. Oh well, I just hope this car lasts.
Regarding the interior, it may be a bit staid however I think that compared to a Ford Focus or many interiors that I've seen from Hyundai or Kia that look futuristic now it will age well when viewed in ten years and the others have gone out of style. As for the plastic in the area of the back doors I'd submit that the area is given to wear and covering it with cloth would eventually need to be replaced with age. This car is a very good value and allot more fun than its competition. I've always liked Volkswagens.
light wieght but very good chassis, this engine is grate in cheap price range. 1.8T is so much fun, and VW build this reliable car. I can feel the light weight but it has less unsprung weight to makes the car very comfortable. The independent suspension makes me very confidence turning on the highway in Detroit No.75 Rd with 145 km/hr !
I find it funny that everyone is stating that Volkswagen is the German version of Toyota. If that's the case then I'm buying every Volkswagen there is. Turbo'd and reliable, can't get better than that.
Best drivin car for money. Sure it's built in Mexico but Nathan is right! It rides and handles superb and I think vw is like Audi.....they both lie about the output of their motors. My jetta will absolutely haul ass .....even nathans
A proper 6 speed manual transmission should increase gas mileage, but they give you an old, inefficient 5 speed in gas models because they don't want to hurt TDI sales. Really, it's just how the Germans often play. They want to protect models that have built up the most equity, so they dumb down cars that have the potential to be better as way of protecting the car that they know sells well. Lets just take the Porsche 911 as an example. If the Boxter/Caymen is the smaller, lighter, more well rounded little sports car, you'd question why they haven't given us a 550+ horsepower Porsche 981 yet, but they still push the 911 as their performance flagship.
I have a Mini Cooper and a Lancer GT 2.4 liter 5 speed manual. I use the Lancer GT for work...it is fun and I got it for $17,500 after rebate and discount...and no VW repair bills to worry about. I can get over 30mpg on the highway. Mixed driving Im getting 28+.
+TheAow4321 I have about 9,000 miles on it now. It is a 2014 mini turbo. No issues so far just a couple recalls and a flat tire and power steering cut out 2x had comp reset no other issues in 2 years. Very fun little car, amazing handling.
I like the 2015 Jetta's exterior styling way more than the 2014, the 2014 looks kinda like a marshmallow from the back imo. The interior I do like but I think it has too much of that black shiny plastic, looks almost kinda cheap, not sure, some of it is OK but it's a little too much for me. I had a 2013 TDI which I liked, I just didn't like the DSG transmission, it was way too jerky for me, especially in the winter.
I actually see a good reason for the hard plastic versus a softer material. It will have less wear and tear to look like crap, and if it does wear, it's easier to replace instead of a piece of plush material. They could do a softer plastic... but if they would do something like that, it would be better if it was matched to the rest of the interior so it didn't look like an afterthought.
I have the 2015 VW Jetta SE automatic and love it. Even without the car knowledge of this guy I knew when I drove a dozen other cars in this class (sedan, price, good mpg etc...) no other car compared. It is burning a lot of oil though now, with no visible oil leaks. VW said it's normal to burn a quart every thousand miles.? I'd like to get a newer car but not sure what to get. I've driven newer Jettas and they're just not the same...
If your going to buy this VW SE TSI, better get if fast because for 2016, VW is putting a 1.4T into the SE TSI instead of the 1.8T and there moving the 1.8t into the SEL(starting at $23,650) .Because the 1.8T is an awesome power plant and I believe it has way more than 170 hp. I bought the 2015 for 18k and I love it.
+Steven Sallaz The 1.8T will still be in the Sport models for ~20k-21k. But good point on the SE, though the 1.4T does look pretty good and is a great improvement for the base model, but youre right the 1.8T feels much more powerful than advertised.
+TheAow4321 , Thanks, I didn't realize the sport model would still have the 1.8T, I think this would be the way to go for 2016. Plus the wheels on the sport look good as well.
You should test drive and review the new 1.4l Turbo Jetta for 2016. You will be incredibly surprised at how powerful and efficient that jetta is with that new engine!
why the jetta 2016 1.4 the transmition jerk during downshifting in city driving ? is this normal? using the triptronic minimizes the issue but is annoying during city driving
No his mind is not for rent To any god or government Always hopeful, yet discontent He knows changes aren't permanent But change is...... Great job, Nathan! I'm a fan of the Jetta too. Not a bad price. 20k is fair.
Great car! I just test drive one today, really fun to drive. Compare with 2016 Jetta with 1.4 TSI, which one you guys will choose? 2014 1.8T or 2015 1.4T?
what do you think about buy a rental car? I want to buy a jetta 1.8, but trade in car all higher than my budget， only few rental cars are cheaper. under 50kkm
MrSix Elantra (like all Hyundais and Kias) is a "paper car". Good on paper, shitty in real life. Elantra Sport reaches full power between 6-7k rpm. Under that (99% of real world driving) it has neither power, nor torque. Jetta pulls strongly from 1500 rpm, that's a huge difference.
My Jetta averages about 45 MPG on the highway and 35MPG city. A little better than the old Cobalt I had before a bit peppier too and OH turbo noises lol.
Very nice review. This is the car I'm going to be buying. But I'll wait for 2016 before I buy one. All vw look the same and I want to see new facelift.
Amazing cars. I have a 14 Jetta se. 1.8tsi w/5spd. 10k miles almost to the button. Normally avg. 38-40 mpg city 1/3 highway 2/3 of the time. Have done some minor things like tint, wheels (stayed with 16's because he is absolutely right about wheel size), fog lights w/ euro switch and led bubls. In tornado red the car looks anything but boring. The motor and trans matchup is perfect. Fun to wind out and low rpm cruising. Would recommend this car to anybody. The 2014 se is the same motor and full independent multi link suspension as the 2015. The handling is fantastic. Solid, fun and economical car to drive. I love it.
+andyhoov My brother has the Mazda 3 iTouring model, I have the Jetta Sport model. Honestly mine feels better(it may just be the better engine and sport suspension) but it performs wonderfully. Though the Mazda 3 is no slouch at all and is a great car itself performance wise. I should also note the Jetta rides smoother and has a quieter interior on the highway as well. Maybe with the iGrand Touring model the Mazda 3 closes the gap on performance, I couldnt tell you, but thats a good deal more expensive than my Jetta Sport.
They don't need a 6 speed gearbox because the torque is low in the power band And the 5 gear is quite tall so low rpm on the highway. I have a 6 speed manual Tiguan And the 6 gear is not as tall has the Jetta 5 speed also a 5 speed is cheaper and lighter too.
I bought a 2014 jetta 1.8t se before the so called 15 redesign. Mine has 6spd auto and vw leatherette and bought the car for $16900 because it had 848 miles
Yeah styling is pretty drab, not as edgy and sweet as the new Mazda 3, Corolla S, or Dart. But the turbocharged engine is pretty sweet. Loved driving my 08 Audi A4 2.0T, so I know how fun these Audi/VW turbos are to drive.
Forget It. Suppose to get a reboot for 2016. The 2015 still uses the old PQ34 platform so the seats do have good legroom but you will be hugging the doors.
Does this thing have LED headlights? I just bought one from a dealer and I was going to buy a kit to install LED headlights but some options lead me to believe the car already does .
I know Europeans like their cars with an understated appearance but this cars design is just downright generic and boring. When I see it I think of an appliance meant to move people from one place to another.
adams1696 You're funny haha, but nothing says I drive an appliance like Hondas do. Being one of three cars I own, I purchased the Maxima to haul around the family and to commute 60+ miles a day to and from work. I've had a few cars just like yours try me at the traffic lights over the last few years and I haven't lost yet, CVT and all. And it definitely doesn't look or drive like an appliance. My for fun car is a recently purchased 370z. How's that bird beak doing on your Acura? Jk i like Acura's especially the rebadged Accords lol.
Sawashi32 Hmm maxima is just a v6 altima though right? lol every car company these days uses many of the same powertrains in different models.. it's to save money i think :o
nvr been a fan of vw, but recently rented one in Toronto. compared to my commuter car (2007 toyota camry se), it feels more immediate. the engine growl a bit, the transmission is fast and direct and the ride smooth but firm. the 8 days I drove in mostly city, I only used half a tank. reliability is still an issue (with my near 10 year old camry, I only put in about $1500 in repairs) but I may lease this as my next daily driver....
Can't go wrong with a lease. I got mine (2016 Sport) for $175/month and no money down (just my trade, which was a 2001 Civic with 118k miles). I love it.
Had this exact optioned car as a rental. It's quick off the line but acceleration falls off pretty bad after 4K RPM. The radio flat out sucked...very old school. The interior felt super cheap IMO, especially the steering wheel which felt/sounded like a thinly wrapped plastic tube, and I too looked all over for the missing USB. The brake peddle seemed 3" further forward then the gas which resulted in excessive foot movement. It's perfectly adequate if you get one for a good price, but it does nothing exceptional.
nice video. i saw one of this cars at a dealer yesturday and i liked it. its automatic. i have never owned or drive one of this cars thats way i watched this video to know about this cars. on the shift gear it has an (S) under the D. is that for sport?
I have a 2014 SE with the 1.8L turbo and three years later I'm still in love with my car. No issues with it.
Just got me a 2016 .. loving it so far!
Same , I would luv a gti Manuel all black with tint Wolfsburg edition
And SIX YEARS later? What then? Still love it???
I have a 2015 se TSI 1.8 and five years. No issues with it.
@@MrMapachesito how many miles are on it
Just snagged one in black. Next step is a turbo-back and bigger wheels with more grippy AW tires! The back seat is massive, the trunk is massive, and it's way quicker than it leads you to believe. The interior is lack luster but it's one hell of a drive on the highway for $19K.
Thank you for this great review on the 2015 VW Jetta SE 1.8. I really respect your opinion. I considered different compact cars and this one seem to be the best choice. I test drove a Jetta this week and I was very impressed by the performance, the suspension and quality. It is very spacious and comfortable inside, nice size trunk and it feels well made (I like the sound the doors make when I close them). I ended up purchasing the car in automatic and the transmission feels very smooth in all three modes "D", "Sport" and "Tiptronic". I am very happy so far with this vehicle.
+Incaland Interactive How has the Jetta been so far? Any issues yet?
+buildmorefarms100 the Jetta has been great so far. No issues. I really enjoy driving it. It is really quick and comfortable.
Incaland Interactive Very cool!
You're right very plan Jane on the outside. But very simple and elegant on the inside. Nothing overly complicated just the way I like it
Michael Reece Yeah I don't get why people want overly complicated interiors.
@@isaacfox732 Tell that to ACURA and Toyota with their 806 buttons on the Steering Wheel lol
I have the 1.8T and I can tell you.. once I put the V-nitro shell in it.. just keep your gear in S mode.. for the money I paid.. yeah.. I keep my dignity for not moving to toyota again.
Shoulda got the 2.0l Gli.
An you won't fall asleep while you're driving anymore either... LOL
I also put Shell Gold V NItro in my 2015 Jetta 1.8 TSI and it really wakes the car up.. I can feel a difference in power, and about 1 liter per 100 better economy.. and runs smoother.. worth the difference in price to me
Leased this car last week. Got the 1.8 turbocharge engine with connectivity. Compared it to the Mazda. The Jetta has better performance and ride, simply better than any car in its class. Yes, it is plain on the inside, but the controls are functional, well laid out and practical. Really fun to drive on highway and in the city. Has a lot of interior space with good visibility. Not flashy which I prefer.
Can everyone STOP complaining about the 5 speed manual? VW even said the 6spd was their first choice but it got worse fuel economy in city and highway loops than their 5 spd. Besides, the 5spd revs lower than the 6spd on the highway. My 2015 Golf 1.8t revs at just below 2,000rpms a 70mph.
Brandon Friesen How is the Golf 1.8 so far?
buildmorefarms100 So far, fanastic. Doing mostly highway I'm averaging well over 40mpg. And when I get it revving, its a ton of fun in any situation whether I'm in town or a mountain road. I just wish the bumper paint was a bit better since I got too close with a pressure washer, and it completely stripped off a huge section of clear coat. VW might be covering it under warranty but I'll see in August. Best advice: Get 3M! I didn't right away and I'm regretting it big time!
Brandon Friesen Ok thanks for the advice and response.
+Brandon Friesen I've seen you comment on several videos about the VW Jetta and Mazda 3. May I ask your opinion on what current compact car would be best for a 6'10" individual; I need good fuel economy but I also need a large interior. I've read many of the achievements and complaints about various models and think that the VW Jetta and Mazda 3 are equally attractive. I live in a climate where winter stalling won't be a problem. The 2016 VW Jetta Sport 1.8T has better infotainment in my opinion with Android Auto and Apple carplay but the 2016 Mazda 3 grand touring has better fuel economy and on paper performance. In your experience what vehicle has better real world fuel economy, performance and reliability?
David Lyday Id say the Jetta for someone as tall as you are would be hard to get into. I am 6'4 and need to put the seat pretty low down to have my head clear. My golf has a bit more headroom. The mazda3 is the same as the Jetta. For fuel economy, the skyactivs are okay, they're good for city drivers. On the highway they don't have much torque so they have to work hard which makes fuel economy suffer, rather than the 1.8t where it can be at 1,500rpm and be lugging up a hill no problem at all. Reliability is about the same. Skyactivs haven't proven to be that reliable so far and VW's can have their electrical issues, if you get a bad one. If you get a good one, it'll last forever. And for performance, definitely the Golf/Jetta. They're pretty quick.
I have a 2015 Jetta 1.8 TSI with the 6 speed automatic and I love it, lots of low end grunt , feels comfortable and secure on the highway... easy to beat 40 mpg on the hwy in the summer without hypermiling, 43 us MPG (5.4 Liters/100km) if really trying, ave 60 mph (96.5 km/h)
I have the 2016 Jetta sport fully loaded it's has everything I wanted I was ready to buy an older C class Mercedes (2010) it didn't have the navigation system in it but this one came with the navigation system etc I'm truly in love with this car
I appreciate the fact it seems so generic, and no frills. I will be the one servicing it - minor and major - for its lifetime, and it gives me good feelings that there are not a million things waiting to go wrong. These space age cars are beginning to look ridiculous, and all look alike. This one is a clear winner. What first attracted me was the power to price ratio. Now, I'm loving the rest of it. Hoping to see one tomorrow....
It must have been Groundhog day when Nathan recorded this -- I just kept having this feeling of deja-vu when he described where the magic of the car is. ;-)
Wow, a $20,000 car that's fun to drive and comes with a manual? Sign me up!
WikdSeafood Don't forget there is the Mazda3.
vader11111 Mazda 3 looks weird IMO. The Jetta has a much more attractive streamline look that is comparable to an Audi.
Brian Martone Yeah, I'm not a big fan of the Mazda 3's look, and especially the dash.
Well I guess looks is just personal preference. IMO the Mazda3 looks way better than the Jetta.
WikdSeafood theres a lot of cars that are base that come with the manual.
I test drove the '15 Accord DX with the 6 speed manual. The first 5 gears were identical to my '93 Accord, which revved 3,000 rpm at 70 mph in fifth. The 6th gear brought it to about 2,600 at 70. In the midwest and the west, speed limits are 75 and 80 mph, so the old Honda was really revving.
The Jetta SE 1.8 TSI 5 speed revved 2,000 rpm at 80 mph, not 70! Additionally, the 184fp of torque is there from 1,500 rpm to 4,750 rpm. So you can drive at 1,500 rpm in 5th.
FWIW, the 1.4 TSI has the same torque characteristics as the 1.8, but 20 fewer HP for a 150 HP total.
I just bought a 2015 Jetta and I LOVE it !!
Just got mine yesterday I love it
How is the car holding up I wanna get one
Michael Gonzalez mine has 77k miles and has had no major issues
Mine has 100k and issues
@@imon815 what kind of issues are you having?
Guys if ur getting a 1.8 just get the damn 2.0 Gli ... wayy better
Been a VW fan since the eighties and traditionally they have always been no bullshit cars with Spartan interiors. It was all about the performance and driving experience, not cheesy gadgetry.
Just wish that they would bring back the VR6 motor In a manual.
In a sense, this car is hilarious, no USB port- the engine size is back down from 2.0 to 1.8 and I dare say even the old 1.8ts made more hp, the tires are back to being fat, the Trans has gone down from 6 back to 5... And I LOVE IT! I own a TDI now, one of many, and I feel like it's 2006 all over again! But NOW the 1.8t gets awesome mpg and SHOULD BE WAY better than those old ones. I really think VW had a good thing going back then, I'm so sick of every new car coming out having more hp and a bigger engine and 10 gears and with this fuel economy and preformance from the 1.8t I may just have to test drive this now. Thank you VW. Sincerely. Thank you so much, I just got back from test driving some used wranglers now that I'm 27 and can afford a new car, but now I may just stick with VW. I'm so tired of change. All we've had is change. Let's just concentrate on making what we have better and not trying to invent a replacement every years Thanks Nathan! Maybe I'll drop by the VW dealer tomorrow!
This is a base car and the 1.8t replaces the 2.5 noisy 5 cylinder. No premium fuel bills either.
***** I've onwed over 40 cars in the last 10 years of my life... 25% of which have been vw's TDI's 1.8'ts and 2.0's... i'd fare to say that would make me a decent authority on them, aside from being an Audi mechanic. But yeah, like you said, to each his own. Good luck with that.
***** I forgot clearly it must "SUCK" a whole hell of a lot more to pay $2500 for a transmission that lasts 200k miles than $10,000 for a 27 speed transmission that just came out last year and breaks at 90k miles.
***** I like it.
Eighty cc does this car offer a gasoline engine? How do I know?
Bought one. 1.8 TSI "Connectivity". All of the Good points you hit on were why I did it. I drive my buddies and coworkers, "Wow, a Jetta?!" Yeah, feels like a C250.." Got it loaded..
my wife got this exact car in black today
how is the performance an fuel consumption?
I kind of like the simple styling of German cars. Wouldn't call it boring just consistent.
A positive way to put that is, "Conservative" :)
This car does come with Bluetooth tho so you really don’t need a aux 💯
Get a APR tune.... and you get a huge HP & TQ increase!!! And once you get over the initial fun, you can still maintain the mpg's.
The most efficient numbers I've gotten from my 2015 Jetta are 46.2 miles per gallon and 42.6 miles per gallon. The 46.2 I got while I'm cruise control and going downhill for the most part on the highway 😁. Usually I get into the 30s on the highway
A great presentation. Makes me want to get one of these VW Jettas...
I own this car but auto . Just love it . 50,000 miles now . 34 mpg city 39 hwy . Yeah i wish i had leather and a few other things . Its a great feel on the road , plenty of power and its simple .
How long does this car last without major maintenance, 120k-130k miles?
My 2014 1.8t has 137000 miles and still runs perfect. Everything he says about the car is true. Very fast very good handling great mileage. Could not be happier especially for how cheap these are to buy. Too bad VW didn't follow the same formula for the redesign in 2019
Don't forget to change the Timing Belt at about 105k. This is an interference engine which means if the Timing belt breaks, the valves crash into the pistons and the engine is toast.
can you guys do a 2016 VW Jetta 1.4t?
I have a 2008 vw jetta and the interior is still looking good to this day.
Own one of theses and I enjoy smoking bmws and audis and Honda’s in my hometown. Love it got it for my 18th bday, and I’m 18 and half rn
answering any questions
How’s the reliability on it going? Heard a lot of bad reviews on the reliability sude
VW and Audi have always done "face-lifts" to their cars. When the sales start falling a bit (or mid generation) they do small redesigns, fix things people don't like, and often add some styling ques too keep their cars fresh for consumers. Re-designing a car every few years is way over the top and costly. I think the current VW line up is refreshingly simplistic and elegant, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder...
One advantage is that my 2015 Jetta still looks new in 2021... I parked it next to a 2020 Golf I was considering at the VW dealership and they almost looked the same! Lol 😆
@@mikeredmond1000 Yeah and a lot of cars copy the simple design. Especially Kia's.
What is important - VW has improved car's structure - look at the IIHS small-overlap crash test results for the old and new model. Really good car
I have a 2014 SE which has the updated 1.8L engine and I just love it. If you get a cream interior like mine it actually makes the inside two toned which looks nicer than the solid grey or black. The trunk is indeed huge as is the back seat; plenty of leg room. The only thing I wish it came with is VW's 4MOTION but I guess I'll have to eventually trade up to an Audi for AWD. I actually think I prefer the old front fascia on mine compared to the updates they made to the 2015 model.
Dude, it's not rocket Science lol The reason VW didn't put a 6-Speed Manual in this model, like the GLI , is because they didn't want to have overlapping products ( for Marketing reasons ) with very similar features between the Sport Model and the GLI. In other words, they need need to be able to justify the Retail price difference between this model and their "Halo" Jetta in the GLI model.
You sold me.....Jetta it is !!
Personally, I'd go with the Mazda 3. I think the interior is better, exterior is more refreshing, and with the SkyActive technology you get more HP and slightly better fuel consumption.
Yep that's what I though too
YoungMC34 You actually don't get more hp. This 1.8t actually produces 199hp to the wheels as measured by APR on 87 octane. Mazda's biggest engine, the 2.5, makes 184 and it definitely doesn't feel like that much. In cold starts, the Skyactiv engines struggle, on my dealership lot I had to move a whole row of 2015 M3's to clear snow and only 5 started out of 20. The 2.5 is also harder on fuel and has a very short torque band so you need to rev it to get going. The VW 1.8t is a much better engine. If I had to buy a Mazda, I'd go for the 2.0L since it is efficient and can still move out of it's own way. I bought a 2015 Golf and do wish I had the Mazda's infotainment system, though.
Brandon Friesen Interesting. I didn't know the 1.8t offered that much. I've heard that some owners of the Mazda 3 with the SkyActive did have trouble, I didn't know they were that bad in the cold though. I guess that explains why Mazda dealerships up here in Boston are offering some great deals to get them off the lot, and also why I don't see too many new generation Mazdas on the road. I like the infotainment system and interior of the Mazda 3, but I didn't like the lack of headroom. I'm not a tall person at all, and I had very little head clearance.
YoungMC34 Agree. I would get a Mazda3 over this any day.
YoungMC34 I do love the M3, don't get me wrong. But the technology and engines in it, are not to my liking, besides the infotainment system which is awesome. So far my Golf has been getting 33.7mpg and my best is 35.6mpg. I only have 3,700kms on it.
I would've bought an M3 only if I could get the 2.0L 6spd. with Bose Audio, Leather, Bi-Xenon lights and dual zone climate control. If I could get that, I would've definitely gotten that car. I drove one around town all day the other day and recorded over 40mpg. My Golf says it gets over 40mpg but actual calculations don't show that.
I wish I bought a cheaper VW though. I paid over $30,000, while I could've gotten a Jetta for $22,000 for the features I'd like. Oh well, I just hope this car lasts.
Regarding the interior, it may be a bit staid however I think that compared to a Ford Focus or many interiors that I've seen from Hyundai or Kia that look futuristic now it will age well when viewed in ten years and the others have gone out of style. As for the plastic in the area of the back doors I'd submit that the area is given to wear and covering it with cloth would eventually need to be replaced with age.
This car is a very good value and allot more fun than its competition. I've always liked Volkswagens.
That plastic will be scratched easily. So it really depends on the user.
light wieght but very good chassis, this engine is grate in cheap price range. 1.8T is so much fun, and VW build this reliable car. I can feel the light weight but it has less unsprung weight to makes the car very comfortable. The independent suspension makes me very confidence turning on the highway in Detroit No.75 Rd with 145 km/hr !
I find it funny that everyone is stating that Volkswagen is the German version of Toyota. If that's the case then I'm buying every Volkswagen there is. Turbo'd and reliable, can't get better than that.
Best drivin car for money. Sure it's built in Mexico but Nathan is right! It rides and handles superb and I think vw is like Audi.....they both lie about the output of their motors. My jetta will absolutely haul ass .....even nathans
Just got one in red and I love it
I want to own a discounted Audi, someday. :')
#DreamingOfJetta
Goals
I put an Audi front licence plate on mine.. paying for an Audi.. driving a jetta lol 😆
A proper 6 speed manual transmission should increase gas mileage, but they give you an old, inefficient 5 speed in gas models because they don't want to hurt TDI sales. Really, it's just how the Germans often play. They want to protect models that have built up the most equity, so they dumb down cars that have the potential to be better as way of protecting the car that they know sells well. Lets just take the Porsche 911 as an example. If the Boxter/Caymen is the smaller, lighter, more well rounded little sports car, you'd question why they haven't given us a 550+ horsepower Porsche 981 yet, but they still push the 911 as their performance flagship.
C C what is the difference between the 2.5 Jetta and the Jetta tsi?
that infotainment system looks like it's from the 90's. glad they updated it in the 16.
It doesn't feel drab or boring to me it looks and feels sleek and luxurious
I have a Mini Cooper and a Lancer GT 2.4 liter 5 speed manual. I use the Lancer GT for work...it is fun and I got it for $17,500 after rebate and discount...and no VW repair bills to worry about. I can get over 30mpg on the highway. Mixed driving Im getting 28+.
+buildmorefarms100 Dat mini reliability doe...
TheAow4321 So far no problems with reliability
How many miles?
+TheAow4321 I have about 9,000 miles on it now. It is a 2014 mini turbo. No issues so far just a couple recalls and a flat tire and power steering cut out 2x had comp reset no other issues in 2 years. Very fun little car, amazing handling.
@@buildmorefarms1007 how did the mini go?
I like the 2015 Jetta's exterior styling way more than the 2014, the 2014 looks kinda like a marshmallow from the back imo. The interior I do like but I think it has too much of that black shiny plastic, looks almost kinda cheap, not sure, some of it is OK but it's a little too much for me. I had a 2013 TDI which I liked, I just didn't like the DSG transmission, it was way too jerky for me, especially in the winter.
I actually see a good reason for the hard plastic versus a softer material. It will have less wear and tear to look like crap, and if it does wear, it's easier to replace instead of a piece of plush material. They could do a softer plastic... but if they would do something like that, it would be better if it was matched to the rest of the interior so it didn't look like an afterthought.
I have the 2014 model & the USB is in the center armrest, uses a special vw connector cord.
Im getting the new one the 2016 Jetta TSI TURBO 1.8 i think im making an amazing choice for my first modern car
Did you get it?
I have the 2015 VW Jetta SE automatic and love it. Even without the car knowledge of this guy I knew when I drove a dozen other cars in this class (sedan, price, good mpg etc...) no other car compared. It is burning a lot of oil though now, with no visible oil leaks. VW said it's normal to burn a quart every thousand miles.? I'd like to get a newer car but not sure what to get. I've driven newer Jettas and they're just not the same...
If your going to buy this VW SE TSI, better get if fast because for 2016, VW is putting a 1.4T into the SE TSI instead of the 1.8T and there moving the 1.8t into the SEL(starting at $23,650) .Because the 1.8T is an awesome power plant and I believe it has way more than 170 hp. I bought the 2015 for 18k and I love it.
+Steven Sallaz The 1.8T will still be in the Sport models for ~20k-21k. But good point on the SE, though the 1.4T does look pretty good and is a great improvement for the base model, but youre right the 1.8T feels much more powerful than advertised.
+TheAow4321 , Thanks, I didn't realize the sport model would still have the 1.8T, I think this would be the way to go for 2016. Plus the wheels on the sport look good as well.
it has a 12v power port and blu tooth audio. Most technology is switching over to blu tooth making usb drives and aux ports a thing of the past.
You should test drive and review the new 1.4l Turbo Jetta for 2016. You will be incredibly surprised at how powerful and efficient that jetta is with that new engine!
why the jetta 2016 1.4 the transmition jerk during downshifting in city driving ? is this normal?
using the triptronic minimizes the issue but is annoying during city driving
I got my 2014 last April. Got the independent rear and gen3 1.8t but the pre facelift jetta
All these people criticizing your good team but I wonder how many will take the initiative to start their own site.
No his mind is not for rent
To any god or government
Always hopeful, yet discontent
He knows changes aren't permanent
But change is......
Great job, Nathan! I'm a fan of the Jetta too. Not a bad price. 20k is fair.
Great car! I just test drive one today, really fun to drive.
Compare with 2016 Jetta with 1.4 TSI, which one you guys will choose?
2014 1.8T or 2015 1.4T?
Love the Rush shirt!!
I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE my '15 Jetta SE!!!
what do you think about buy a rental car? I want to buy a jetta 1.8, but trade in car all higher than my budget， only few rental cars are cheaper. under 50kkm
Just saying, doesn't the Elantra Sport offer 173bp? This car has direct competition which is only about $500 more than this and has a better warranty.
Elantra is much slower in real life. GDI engine has no torque at all.
thank you for the clarification. i haven't drive either, so i wasn't entirely sure about the performance figures
MrSix Elantra (like all Hyundais and Kias) is a "paper car". Good on paper, shitty in real life. Elantra Sport reaches full power between 6-7k rpm. Under that (99% of real world driving) it has neither power, nor torque. Jetta pulls strongly from 1500 rpm, that's a huge difference.
Damn! Been and can't wait for the GLI 2015 SE review!
Love the RUSH Shirt Nathan!
Yup, no standard USB, odd! I love mine!
My Jetta averages about 45 MPG on the highway and 35MPG city. A little better than the old Cobalt I had before a bit peppier too and OH turbo noises lol.
Very nice review. This is the car I'm going to be buying. But I'll wait for 2016 before I buy one. All vw look the same and I want to see new facelift.
iLove my Jetta SE TSI. It's so comfortable!!!
My 2015 Jetta sport has 105 thousand and still going strong how many more miles do u guys think I’ll get outta it
Amazing cars. I have a 14 Jetta se. 1.8tsi w/5spd. 10k miles almost to the button. Normally avg. 38-40 mpg city 1/3 highway 2/3 of the time. Have done some minor things like tint, wheels (stayed with 16's because he is absolutely right about wheel size), fog lights w/ euro switch and led bubls. In tornado red the car looks anything but boring. The motor and trans matchup is perfect. Fun to wind out and low rpm cruising. Would recommend this car to anybody. The 2014 se is the same motor and full independent multi link suspension as the 2015. The handling is fantastic. Solid, fun and economical car to drive. I love it.
Here's my question, which has the better suspension and/or steering feel, this or the Mazda 3?
+andyhoov My brother has the Mazda 3 iTouring model, I have the Jetta Sport model. Honestly mine feels better(it may just be the better engine and sport suspension) but it performs wonderfully. Though the Mazda 3 is no slouch at all and is a great car itself performance wise.
I should also note the Jetta rides smoother and has a quieter interior on the highway as well.
Maybe with the iGrand Touring model the Mazda 3 closes the gap on performance, I couldnt tell you, but thats a good deal more expensive than my Jetta Sport.
They don't need a 6 speed gearbox because the torque is low in the power band And the 5 gear is quite tall so low rpm on the highway. I have a 6 speed manual Tiguan And the 6 gear is not as tall has the Jetta 5 speed also a 5 speed is cheaper and lighter too.
I bought a 2014 jetta 1.8t se before the so called 15 redesign. Mine has 6spd auto and vw leatherette and bought the car for $16900 because it had 848 miles
You're a Great Reviewer
Yeah styling is pretty drab, not as edgy and sweet as the new Mazda 3, Corolla S, or Dart. But the turbocharged engine is pretty sweet. Loved driving my 08 Audi A4 2.0T, so I know how fun these Audi/VW turbos are to drive.
I have the 2017 1.8T SEL and I love it. So happy with my purchase.
Good video and this combo does seem interesting especially in the 1.8T sport model.
Love this review :) I’m gonna buy it!
So, whose motors last longer- Ford or VW?
Just got this car...amazing!
Zakk B VW is a car?lol
+Lucky man He obviously means he got the Jetta like what this video is about.. Jesus Christ people.
Watch that 29 mpg drop as the miles go up .
Carbon build up.Cars shouldnt need a cleaner from the beginning.
Forget It. Suppose to get a reboot for 2016. The 2015 still uses the old PQ34 platform so the seats do have good legroom but you will be hugging the doors.
+Ivan Vojt I thought the full redesign was slated for 2018?
+TheAow4321 Correct 2016 was just a "refresh". 2017 is suppose to be a 'redesign'.
Ivan Vojt gotcha
Does this thing have LED headlights? I just bought one from a dealer and I was going to buy a kit to install LED headlights but some options lead me to believe the car already does .
5 speed manual with no USB ports? Sounds like my 2006 subaru lol !
It has a mdi cord, so it’s like aux and charger combined. But also has Bluetooth, and aux
2015-era engine inside a 1995-era body.
I know Europeans like their cars with an understated appearance but this cars design is just downright generic and boring. When I see it I think of an appliance meant to move people from one place to another.
Sawashi32 Jetta is criticized even in Europe. And it doesn't sell well because it's very expensive.
Sawashi32 What about your appliance CVT? jk i like cvts lol
adams1696 You're funny haha, but nothing says I drive an appliance like Hondas do. Being one of three cars I own, I purchased the Maxima to haul around the family and to commute 60+ miles a day to and from work. I've had a few cars just like yours try me at the traffic lights over the last few years and I haven't lost yet, CVT and all. And it definitely doesn't look or drive like an appliance. My for fun car is a recently purchased 370z. How's that bird beak doing on your Acura? Jk i like Acura's especially the rebadged Accords lol.
Sawashi32 Hmm maxima is just a v6 altima though right? lol every car company these days uses many of the same powertrains in different models.. it's to save money i think :o
Are these still 20 valves like they use to be. Or are they 16v now?
I liked him as soon as I saw the rush shirt
I don't understand why he says this car costs 20k with a manual, my local dealer is selling these at 18k with a manual se
the problem is that the Civic gets 40mpg easily, have the best manual transmission, and alot more reliable.
5 speed is so u buy the glib
The mpgs are not that great as you think they are. The bigger and more powerful Altima receives 38 mpg
Cody Powell But it's a bore to drive. The power delivery of the Altima is great for grannies.
Exactly what I was gonna put also the Mazda 3 and 6
Blake Brink Exactly! My Mazda3 2.0 gets 41mpg highway so 37mpg on a 1.8 isn't great at all.
Sleepygrinder its a fucking 4 cylinder what do you expect? also it has more power than the jetta so whats your point here?
vader11111 yeah its not really great at all considering it has a turbo
nvr been a fan of vw, but recently rented one in Toronto. compared to my commuter car (2007 toyota camry se), it feels more immediate. the engine growl a bit, the transmission is fast and direct and the ride smooth but firm. the 8 days I drove in mostly city, I only used half a tank. reliability is still an issue (with my near 10 year old camry, I only put in about $1500 in repairs) but I may lease this as my next daily driver....
Yea I've always been scared of its reliability problems but I don't think it would break down before 50,000 miles right ?
+Ima smokaahh i have this car and its not only super fuel efficient but also durable i am at 20,000 miles 2016 and it's still smooth as silk
+Roon Ortiz nice I really want to get one but Idk if I should lease or buy
Can't go wrong with a lease. I got mine (2016 Sport) for $175/month and no money down (just my trade, which was a 2001 Civic with 118k miles). I love it.
Had this exact optioned car as a rental. It's quick off the line but acceleration falls off pretty bad after 4K RPM. The radio flat out sucked...very old school. The interior felt super cheap IMO, especially the steering wheel which felt/sounded like a thinly wrapped plastic tube, and I too looked all over for the missing USB. The brake peddle seemed 3" further forward then the gas which resulted in excessive foot movement. It's perfectly adequate if you get one for a good price, but it does nothing exceptional.
nice video. i saw one of this cars at a dealer yesturday and i liked it. its automatic. i have never owned or drive one of this cars thats way i watched this video to know about this cars. on the shift gear it has an (S) under the D. is that for sport?
My 2014 jetta 2.0 non turbo gets 28 city and close to 40 on the interstate
Is this the same TSI turbo engine that's found in the new golf sportwagen?
Cloth seats? I though all jetta came with vw tex (vinyl) exception of the 2.0L 8v fleet models
I have the 2015 jetta se tsi automatic it's a 6speed with the 1.8lt turbo
Does it at least have an AUX port?
What's better a Jetta or Mazda 3??