The Volkswagen Jetta is one of the most affordable vehicles on the road today, with a starting price under $25,000.
I previously owned a 1992 and 2004 Jetta, so I was excited to test the 2026 version. I tested
the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta Sport to see if it lived up to my previous ownership experiences and its5-star Safety Ratingfrom the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and J.D. Power Great Resale Value awards .
The 2026 Jetta Sport model that I tested is the second-lowest trim of the popular sedan, and it starts at just over $25,000. Entry-level models start below $24,000.
The vehicle is available in five trims.
I have tested other sedans like the Mazda3, and also smaller SUVs such as Mazda CX-5, the Toyota RAV-4 plug-in hybrid and the fully electric Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota bZ and Lexus RZ.
Here's what I learned after a week behind the wheel of Volkswagen's popular sedan.
What makes the 2026 version of the Jetta stand out?
The Volkswagen Jetta stands out for its modern features, smooth handling and appealing exterior. The vehicle is available in seven colors, including the Monterey blue pearl that I tested, which consistently drew attention during my week behind the wheel.
During testing, the Volkswagen Jetta's interior and cargo area felt spacious for daily driving needs. My 3-year-old son's car seat fit comfortably in the back seat.
I also enjoyed the Jetta's wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connectivity. Its 8-inch infotainment screen seemed perfect for a smaller car. I drove the Jetta over 100 miles in my week of testing, putting it through its paces on flat interstate highways, suburban streets and roads with winding hills and tight corners. It handled each terrain with ease.
How does the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta drive?
The Volkswagen Jetta had quick acceleration, even on very steep hills, and handled well around tight curves on two-lane roads. It felt powerful when necessary and was also nimble when agility was needed.
The Jetta gets an EPA-estimated 29 mpg on city streets and 40 mpg on highways, according to Volkswagen. The model I tested had 450 miles of range on a full tank of gas and it averaged over 25 mpg during my week of testing.
The Jetta is powered by a 1.5-liter EA211 turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. Volkswagen says it offers 158 horsepower and 184 pounds per-foot of torque. The vehicle is available in automatic or manual transmission formats.
The mid-level trim Jetta Sport model I tested came with 10‑inch alloy wheels and cloth front row seats that can be heated. It also had a four-speaker audio system.
Will the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta fit your lifestyle?
The Volkswagen Jetta Sport model that I tested is over 186 inches long, more than 70 inches wide, without considering the mirrors, and over 57 inches tall. It had a jackknife key that needed to be placed into the ignition to start the vehicle, which was an adjustment after years of driving cars that have push-to-start buttons.
The model I tested also came with built-in navigation and several Google services. It has the MyVW application that allows owners to start their cars and adjust temperatures remotely from their phones.
The Jetta is also equipped with Volkswagen's IQ.DRIVE system that provides safety features such as auto emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, parking sensors and lane keep assist, among other available technologies.
The car I tested offered over 14 cubic feet of trunk space, which I found sufficient for luggage and grocery hauls. The vehicle's's rear seats can also be folded to create additional cargo space.
The Jetta can fit up to five passengers, but it might be a tight fit if all occupants are adults. The model I tested offered 38 inches of headroom and more than 41 inches of legroom for front-row passengers.
Is the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta worth it?
Starting at $23,995, the 2026 Volkswagen costs a lot less than the average price of a new car, which was $50,089 in August, which is the most recent data available, according toCox Automotive's Kelley Blue Book. It's also lower than the average price of a compact car, which was $27,997 in August, according to Cox.
The Jetta pricing ranges from the entry-level S that starts at just under $24,000 to the top trim GLI that retails for $33,745.
I enjoyed the Jetta I tested. The car was fun to drive, and it gave me fond memories of the older versions of the car that I drove when I was a much younger. The blue Jetta drew positive comments from onlookers who told me they thought it looked good. I also appreciated the Jetta's efficiency as I drove past gas stations that were charging over $4 per gallon.
If I were shopping for a new Jetta today, I'd likely choose the Sport trim over more expensive versions of the vehicle.
The Jetta competes in the compact sedan segment with models such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra and Mazda3.
Who should buy the Jetta?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta is a compelling option for buyers seeking an affordable compact car with sturdy handling and distinctive styling.
With most new cars costing over $50,000, the Jetta could be a steal with a starting price under $25,000. It's a great vehicle for anyone looking to get a new small car without breaking the bank.
Keith Laing is an automotive reporter on the National Trending Desk at USA TODAY. Contact Keith at klaing@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Volkswagen Jetta is half the price of a typical new car and worth it
