2016 New Volkswagen Jetta Launched in Malaysia, From RM 108,990 to RM 128,990

Despite only being in the market for 5 years, the Volkswagen Jetta is a car that has long been overdue for a facelift. That model is finally here, and its available in 3 different variants: the entry level Trendline variant goes for RM 108,990, the mid-range Comfortline goes for RM 117,990, and the top-of-the-line Highline is priced at RM 128,990 (all prices on the road, without insurance). For the first time ever, the Jetta comes with a number based designation (280 TSI), which has nothing to do with the torque output (which in the Jetta's case, is actually 250 Nm), but is rather heirarchical in the way the BMW 330i no longer has a 3.0 litre engine, and neither does the Mercedes C300. 

It’s fitting as well that this is the first new model to be launched by Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia, as it officially begins operations this month. This follows on from the 5-year manufacturer warranty that they started offering from the beginning of September, which contrasts the 2+3 year warranty that was previously offered. VPCM says that they will be looking to launch the new Passat as well in the coming months, and aim to repair Volkswagen's relationship with its customers. 

Being one of Volkswagen’s more popular models, it made sense for them to offer it with multiple different specification levels. All variants are powered by a newer 1.4 TSI powerplant (150 PS, 250 Nm from 1,500 rpm to 3,500 rpm), which it shares with the current generation Golf TSI as we explained in our earlier report. It’s paired with the DSG 7-speed dry clutch gearbox, which VW says is an improved version and delivers power to the front wheels. Zero to hundred takes just 8.6 seconds, while the long gear spread allows for a fuel consumption of 5.0 litres per 100 kilometres, also making it the best in class and valid Energy Efficient Vehicle certification. Automatic Start-Stop and a coasting function for the gearbox also help to reduce fuel consumption.

The new Jetta is available in 4 colours: Candy White, Platinum Grey, Reflex Silver, and Deep Black. We’ll run through the variants and their specific features.

If you pick the entry level Trendline (RM108,990), you will enjoy:

• Daytime running lights
• Electrically adjusting and folding mirrors with integrated turn signals
• Halogen headlamps with manual adjustment
• Front and rear fog lights
• Front and rear reverse sensors
• 16-inch alloy rims
• RCD 220 head unit with USB, SD card, and Aux-in functionality
• Manual air-conditioning
• Leather steering wheel, handbrake, and gearknob
• Fabric Upholstery

The mid-level Comfortline (RM117,990) tops this with:

• Automatic headlights
• Automatic wipers
• Darkened tail lamps
• RCD330G touch-screen head unit, with USB and iPod interface, SD Card, AUX-in functionality, Bluetooth connectivity, and MirrorLink
• Climatronic dual-zone air-conditioning system
• Cooled glovebox
• Multi-function steering wheel

Going for the top spec Highline (RM128,990) gets you:

• Bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights
• Headlamp washer system
• LED tail lamps
• 17-inch alloy rims
• Electric driver’s seat with 12 way adjustment
• Leather upholstery
• Keyless entry and start
• Paddle shifters
• Cruise control

Standard safety features across the range include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS), and a hill-hold control system. ISOFIX and 6-airbags come as standard as well, making it a solid contender as a family car.

As before, the new Jetta is locally-assembled at Volkswagen's vehicle assembly facility located within the the DRB-Hicom plant in Pekan, Pahang.