The Volkswagen Jetta was first introduced in the United States in 1979. Since then, the German automaker has made seven generations of the car, each endearing itself to driving enthusiasts like me.
I previously owned a 1992 and 2004 Jetta. I was excited when I got a chance to test the 2026 version.
The 2026 Jetta is one of the most affordable vehicles on the road today, starting under $25,000. I tested it to see if it lived up to my previous ownership experiences andthe 5-star Safety Rating from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and J.D. Power Great Resale Value awards.
The 2026 Jetta Sport model I tested is the second-lowest trim in the lineup, starting at just over $25,000. Entry-level models start below $24,000.
The vehicle
is available in five trims. It immediately felt familiar to me from the first moment I got behind the wheel.
It's been over a decade since I last owned a Jetta, and both of my previous models had 5-speed manual transmissions. I found myself gripping the gear shift in the 2026 version almost exactly as I had when I was maneuvering the 5-speed versions.
I have tested other sedans like the Mazda3, and smaller SUVs such as the Mazda CX-5, the Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid, and the fully electric Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota bZ, and Lexus RZ. But I didn't have previous ownership experience with those cars to compare them to, as I could with the Jetta.
Here's what I learned after a week behind the wheel of Volkswagen's popular sedan and how the new version compares to the older ones that I previously owned.
2026 Jetta feels familiar to its predecessors
The Volkswagen Jetta has always stood out for its modern features, smooth handling, and appealing exterior. The 2026 vehicle is available in seven colors, including the Monterey Blue Pearl that I tested, which consistently drew attention during my week behind the wheel.
My 1992 Jetta was white, and my 2004 model was gray. Both were boxier than the current Jetta, but decades later, some familiar traits remain.
During my week of testing the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta, the car'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 couldn't have imagined typing that sentence when I bought my first Jetta in high school.
I drove the 2026 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 and brought back fond memories of my previous Jettas. I drove my 2004 model for nine years and more than 110,000 miles, while the 1992 Jetta I bought at 17 lasted 166,000 miles.
2026 Jetta has much better technology than previous generations
I also enjoyed the modern Jetta's wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity. Its 8-inch infotainment screen seemed perfect for a smaller car.
My 2004 Jetta had a CD player, and the 1992 model had a cassette tape deck.
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 2026 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.
None of that could have been imagined when I owned my previous Jettas. My 2004 model had power windows and locks, but no remote start. I used a jackknife key to start the car.
The technology in my 1992 Jetta was even more dated. That car had manual doors and windows. It even had a manual sunroof that I hang to use a handle that was mounted in the ceiling to crank. But you couldn't tell my teenage self-much as I feeling breeze in my first car.
Why would I recommend the 2026 Jetta as a prior owner?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta is a compelling option for buyers seeking an affordable compact car with sturdy handling and distinctive styling. The Jetta has always had a reputation for being a reliable vehicle
As I mentioned earlier, I drove both my previous Jettas well over 100,000 miles with very few major mechanical problems. Volkswagen and other German cars sometimes have a reputation for being expensive to repair, but the biggest mechanical issue I had with either Jetta was a clutch replacement on my 2004 model in 2013.
Jettas have also historically been affordable, and the 2026 model is no different. With the average new-car price now topping $50,000, the Jetta stands out with a starting price under $25,000.
It's a great option for anyone looking to get a new small car without breaking the bank, much like I was when I bought my previous two Jettas.
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: I owned 2 Volkswagen Jettas. Would I recommend the 2026 model?
