The sixth generation Jetta arrives at last wearing VW’s new corporate skin. So why does it look so much like an Audi?

HMMM, YOU SEE it too, right? Especially at the rear end and most certainly in its slab-like profile, no doubt helped by our test car’s silver paint job. I refer to the obvious styling cues that have crept in from its Ingolstadt cousins, only ever overpowered at the car’s nose which inherits the bold horizontal grille and lamp treatment from the new Polo and Passat. I have a problem with this too, as it seems more derivative of the smaller car than the larger saloon, somewhat dampening its appeal as an aspirational vehicle. Then again, it’s just a Jetta, Volkswagen’s archetypal nemesis to the bland Toyota Corolla.

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EXTERIOR
Despite the aforementioned gripes, there is still plenty to applaud about the new Jetta’s appearance. It’s handsome, notably turning the heads of those who’ve been waiting patiently for its arrival. “Wow it’s much bigger than the previous Polo,” incorrectly remarked others. It still manages to confidently exude the sense of quality that has become synonymous with the VW badge. A wide, blacked-out airdam and fog lamp enclosure takes up a considerable chunk of its visage as per the rest of the range, with sinewy lines and creases divvying up the flanks before culminating neatly at the boot lid. Our 1.6 TDI Comfortline Manual test derivative gets bold 16” inch Sedona alloy wheels at each rubbery corner, endowing the new Jetta with a boxy, four square stance on a wheelbase 73mm longer than the car it replaces. Yet when parked next to the outgoing chrome-faced Jetta 5, it’s the new car that looks less premium… less substantial even despite being 90mm longer than the old car. Perhaps the range topping ‘Highline’ trim level swings favour back to the 6.

INTERIOR
Climb into the dark interior (grey plastics and brown cloth) of the Comfortline spec and I can’t help feeling a bit underwhelmed. The seats feel flat and the styling uninspiring. Is it just me? Apparently not, according to a few of the testers, others are a bit kinder. Across the range of Jettas you’ll find climate control, a multi-function computer, an 8-speaker equipped CD/Radio player, a multi-function steering wheel and hill-hold control. Onboard safety equipment naturally includes ABS braking with Brake Assist and ESP (stability control) plus driver and passenger airbags, curtain airbags at front and rear and side airbags in front. Storage space is more than adequate thanks to its large 510 litre boot, whilst in the cabin an array of hidey holes and cup holders are available including the items residing in the centre armrest on the (60:40 split) rear bench.