2023 Volkswagen Jetta Owner’s Manual

The Volkswagen Golf series is one the most sought-after small cars in the world for various reasons, all of which it shares with its sibling, the Jetta.

The Volkswagen Jetta brings everything there is to like about the Golf, adding a slightly larger cabin and a regular trunk, a formula with which it can’t go wrong. For 2023, this trusty nameplate doesn’t change anything about this design philosophy.

After undergoing a significant refresh with the 2022 model, it is no surprise that the new Jetta remains unchanged. The only notable modification to its trims for this year is the addition of remote ignition functionality to the mid-tier SE trim.

The Jetta remains unchanged, retaining the 158-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder 1.5-liter engine that powers its movement, a standard six-speed manual transmission with an optional upgrade to an eight-speed automatic, and front-wheel drive.

While the new Jetta can be out-driven by more boisterous competition like the Mazda 3 and Honda Civic (both of which feature all-wheel drive options,) it channels its Golf spirit to provide sprightly handling that combines with its turbocharged engine to provide a reasonably exciting driving experience that impresses in this class and would be sufficient for those that want an enjoyable but lax ride.

The Sport trim of the 2023 Jetta takes things lightly up a notch, adding an electronically-locking front differential for an even more improved driving experience and features on-theme 17-inch standard wheels and blacked-out exterior and cabin accents.

Inside, you get the same plush cabin that borrows heavily from the Golf, a slightly more roomy layout, and a selection of excellent infotainment options that combine to create a welcoming ambiance.

Elsewhere, the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta impresses for dramatically high fuel economy, with the base Jetta posting 30+ mpg in the city and figures north of 40 on the highway.