Although it has been a few years since VW’s worldwide emissions mishap, people still remember it like it was last week. No one can blame the public opinion. However, over the years VW took heavy measures to recover from Dieselgate and pushed forward new initiatives in all directions.

While the German’s automaker focus was obviously towards emission-friendly powertrains, Volkswagen also developed its luxury line with Arteon, and solidified its entry-level sedan with the new Volkswagen Jetta.

A viable contender

There’s a dose of maturity reaching the Canadian entry-level sedan market. VW made sure of it by providing its new Jetta on a new platform with refined outer styling and improved interior perks.

While it may not be the absolute best in its class, fit it right, price it right and you’ll have it ending up on driveways all around Nova Scotia in no time.

Unlike its previous generation, the new Volkswagen Jetta shares VW’s MQB platform. Thanks to its flexibility, the platform is now either squeezing to the size of the A3 subcompact or stretching enough to provide the base for the Atlas SUV.

Efficiency and reliability get a boost with the adherence to the MQB platform, since now many components are shared between VW’s models.

Design and trim levels

While Volkswagen advertises the new Jetta as bringing a bold design. However, on the outside, it looks a lot more like a progression. Sharper edges connecting front grille to taillights and elongated body shapes bring a chiseled look. What some would be described as a dull design will come across Canadian buyers as a refined classic.

Volkswagen has enlarged the new Jetta in all directions, compared to previous model. The new sedan is longer, taller and winder, while also featuring a longer wheelbase. This translates in ample space for front seat occupants and decent amount of legroom and headroom for passengers in the back.

Although trunk space has slightly decreased, there is still enough room in there for a hefty luggage.

There are three trims available on the Jetta: Comfortline, Highline and Execline. Compared to the first two trims, Execline upgrades 16-inch standard wheels to 17-inch alloys and pumps up the sound system via an 8-speaker Beats surround system.

There is just one engine available. Volkswagen decided to remove the diesel from the lineup, thus, only a turbocharged 1.4-liter is available to be paired with either 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Driving

With four engine modes (eco mode, normal, comfort and sport), the new Jetta can handle Canadian roads in all manners. Eco modes does wonders for long highway drives while sport mode will let the driver have some fun on the corners. The 8-speed transmission is recommended over the 6-speed manual for some extra performance.

Conclusion

The new VW Jetta does a great job combining usefulness with comfort and power for a proper all-round sedan.