By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos VW US Media Newsroom
After a redesign for model year 2015, the Jetta 1.4T SE continues to add to value for the 2016 model year.
Exterior
The design incorporates clear, precise lines and muscular surfaces to impart a timeless elegance. At the front, the coupe-like incline of the windshield and the consistent use of horizontal lines define the design. The radiator grille features three cross fins and Bi-Xenon headlights with the Adaptive Front-lighting System are available.
These Bi-Xenon units have a distinctive design and unmistakable signature, with each daytime running light being formed by 15 LEDs arranged in an L-shaped string alongside and beneath the xenon modules. This look is further accentuated by a chrome element between the LED daytime running lights and the xenon lights.
The visual band formed by the radiator grille and headlight clusters, as well as the large lower air intake, give the Jetta a substantial appearance. This look is finished off with optional fog lights mounted in the outer areas of the bumper.
Interior
One of the most significant advances in 2016 comes in the form of its new MIB II touchscreen infotainment. The display utilizes a capacitive touch sensor rather than the more common resistive touchscreens that require pressure, enabling gesture controls like swiping and even pinch-zooming.
The all-new infotainment system not only creates the foundation for the next generation of Volkswagen’s Car-Net connected vehicle services platform, but also offers one of the most comprehensive suites of connected vehicle services and features available in the automotive industry today. Features available through the new Car-Net are divided into three key areas, App-Connect, Security & Service, and Guide & Inform.
App-Connect. The Composition Media unit is available on TSI S with Technology, SE, as well as TSI SE with Connectivity models. Incorporating the features from the Composition Color unit, the Composition Media unit adds an 800 x 480 capacitive color touch display with proximity sensor, with a 6.3-inch screen. Other standard features include App-Connect smartphone integration, Bluetooth with the ability to send and receive SMS text messages with compatible phones, sync two phones simultaneously, two SD card slots, and a JPEG viewer, SiriusXM Radio, HD Radio and support for lossless audio file format.
Security & Service. Consumers have the ability to access the Car-Net Security & Service suite through the innovative online Customer Web Portal as well as an advanced app for smartphones, providing access to all the features available from virtually anywhere your mobile device is connected to wireless internet.
Guide & Inform. Car-Net Guide & Inform offers an enhanced navigation and infotainment experience for VW consumers. Volkswagen has incorporated technologies that enhance existing navigation offerings while adding an additional level of information that empowers consumers.
The Jetta 1.4T SE features a spacious interior, with impressive rear-seat legroom of 38.1 inches. The gently arcing roofline also means more than ample headroom of 37.1 inches for rear-seat passengers.
Chassis
All Jetta models are fitted with a strut-type front suspension with coil springs, telescopic dampers, and an anti-roll bar. They also have a sophisticated multilink independent arrangement that features three transverse and one longitudinal link per wheel. This enables the longitudinal and transverse dynamics to be precisely configured almost independently of each other. The result is more agile, responsive and precise handling.
Powertrain
For 2016, a new 1.4-liter EA211 turbocharged, direct-injection engine that shares its basic architecture with the engine in the Jetta Hybrid. This engine makes 150 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, as well as improving estimated highway fuel economy by more than 15 percent over the outgoing 2.0-liter engine. The EPA estimated fuel economy rating is 28 mpg city and 40 mpg highway when equipped with the five-speed manual transmission; with the six-speed automatic transmission, ratings are 28 city and 39 mpg highway.
Summary
The addition of a new infotainment system for 2016 provides a comprehensive suite of connectivity features. Volkswagen Group of America is one of the first in the industry to support all three available connected car systems; The new MIB II system offers USB and VW-Car Net App-Connect, allowing owners with these systems to access select apps from their smartphones directly through the vehicle’s head unit. VW Car-Net’s connected vehicle services umbrella also includes connected car services, advanced telematics, and enhanced navigation available by subscription.
Starting at $18,995 with a five-speed manual transmission, the SE adds 16-inch Sedona Black aluminum-alloy wheels; push-button start; heated front seats; heated washer nozzles; and adjustable front armrest with storage. Adding a six-speed automatic transmission brings the MSRP to $20,095.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
