Volkswagen Jetta Saloon 1.6 TDI 105 Bluemotion Tech SE 4dr Review

For This engine is extremely fuel-efficient and a willing performer, with strong mid-range punch. Over S trim, SE brings alloy wheels, a smarter interior, iPod-connector and split-folding rear seats.

Against This is quite a bit dearer than the equivalent model with a petrol engine, so the less economical car may make more sense in the long run.

What Car? says

4 out of 5 stars

The Jetta is a very likeable and very capable compact saloon, and this version is an affordable option for high-mileage drivers.

What Car? readers say

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Key facts

0–60mph: 11.7 secs
Top speed: 118 mph
Average mpg: 67.3
Tank range: 1010 miles

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The full Volkswagen Jetta review

Performance
4 out of 5 stars
It’s hard to go wrong
Ride & Handling
4 out of 5 stars
Both engaging and relaxing
Refinement
4 out of 5 stars
There’s very little to complain about
Buying & Owning
4 out of 5 stars
A lot of car for your money
Quality & Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Feels solid, but not that appealing
Safety & Security
5 out of 5 stars
Comprehensively equipped
Behind The Wheel
4 out of 5 stars
Bland but foolproof
Space & Practicality
5 out of 5 stars
More spacious than you might think
Equipment
4 out of 5 stars
Most of what you’d expect

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

Traditionally, hatchback-obsessed UK buyers have avoided the VW Jetta like the plague. On average, after three years, the previous model was worth about 7% less than the equivalent Golf it was based on. In the case of some of the more powerful diesel models, the difference was as much as 10%.

Obviously, this made the Jetta a bit of a used bargain, but that was scant consolation to new-car buyers. However, the latest Jetta may well buck that trend.

For a start, it no longer looks like a Golf with a boot grafted on. Styled from the ground up as a bespoke model, it’s now a well-proportioned, spacious and elegant saloon.

We’d recommend you go for the 103bhp 1.6TDi with BlueMotion trim. Featuring stop-start and battery regeneration, it’s capable of 67.3mpg on the combined cycle. It's a pretty willing performer too, offering plenty of pace and strong mid-range overtaking punch. Crucially, it will hold onto its value better than any other model in the line up.