2015 Volkswagen Jetta Expert Review
Reviewed by Stefan Ogbac
The 2015 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid gets a revised front and rear fascia, and enhanced interior styling. A host of new safety features are now available including blind spot warning, rear traffic alert, forward collision warning, and Park Distance Control.
Vehicle Summary
The 2015 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid is a compact sedan powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter I-4 and an electric motor, producing a total output of 170 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission is the only gearbox available. Fuel economy is excellent for the class at 42/48 mpg city/highway.
Overview
Refinement is a strong point in the 2015 Jetta Hybrid because it has the most sound deadening in the entire Jetta lineup. The Jetta Hybrid benefits from thicker front side windows, acoustic windshield, a model-specific exhaust, lower drag coefficient, and all-season tires. The car rides reasonably well but doesn't sacrifice driving dynamics, with excellent steering and engaging handling.
Power from the hybrid powertrain is decent with a good amount of usable power for city and highway driving. Interior space is generous in the 2015 Jetta Hybrid with plenty of room for passengers up front and in the back. While the cabin layout is conservative, the controls are logical and user-friendly.
The 2015 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrids earned a five-star overall safety rating (out of a possible five stars). In IIHS evaluations, the car was designated a Top Safety Pick, receiving a Good score in five categories (Good is the highest possible score).
What We Think
Despite its green credentials, the 2015 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid doesn't sacrifice driving dynamics and refinement in favor of being eco-friendly. In a 2013 First Test review, we said that the in the Jetta lineup, the hybrid model is the most refined. The car also handles relatively well and drives "worlds better than that of more eco-focused hybrids."
In a comparison test among five hybrid and diesel sedans, we said that the Jetta Hybrid along with its diesel-powered sibling, the Jetta TDI, were the most dynamic and secure on the road.. However, the Jetta Hybrid finished third due to its cost of ownership and asking price, making it a lesser value than its diesel-powered sibling and negating its gas mileage.
Key Competitors
- Toyota Prius
- Honda Civic Hybrid
- Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
- Chevrolet Cruze TD
- Volkswagen Jetta TDI
