2015 Volkswagen Jetta Sport Wagen Pros vs Cons
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When it comes to cars, James Murdock has the real-world experience to back it up. With an economics degree and over 20 years running the family dealership, he's managed it all - from sales to service and marketing. His role is to provide his expert opinion on vehicle performance and value. He meticulously fact checks all features and data with vehicle manufacturers to ensure the upmost accuracy.
The 2015 Volkswagen Jetta Sport Wagon is a great option for the car shoppers who are seeking versatility. Not only does the Sport Wagon boast a substantial amount of cargo space, but it also provides enough passenger room for most families. Prospective buyers will definitely appreciate the car’s nimble driving dynamics. While the performance of the base engine is impressive, the available diesel upgrade offers unmatched fuel efficiency.
What’s new for 2015?
Due to the fact that a new 2016 Jetta Sport Wagon will be released in the near future, the 2015 model remains virtually unchanged.
The Jetta Sport Wagon has a starting price of around $20,000. Although there are other sporty wagons on the market, most of them are much more expensive. Since a redesigned model is scheduled to hit the market in 2016, most VW dealers will likely be offering some very attractive deals on the current model.
2) Large Amount of Cargo Space
Very few sedans can match the Jetta Sport Wagon’s cargo capacity. In fact, the hatchback area offers about 33 cubic feet of cargo space. However, the wagon’s cargo capacity expands to 67 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. From luggage to camping gear, a wide variety of different items will be able to easily fit in the rear.
3) Great Gas Mileage
With a fuel economy rating of 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the freeway, the Jetta Sport Wagon proves to be an efficient performer. On the other hand, the available diesel engine is able to deliver a whopping 42 mpg on the highway. This is good news for the drivers who are trying to budget their money wisely.
4) Punchy Engines
The Jetta Sport Wagon comes standard with a peppy 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine. When needed, the engine can pump out a lively 170 horsepower. Buyers can also step up to the TDI Clean Diesel engine. With a total of 236 pound-feet of torque on tap, the diesel motor pulls strong in all driving situations.
5) Nimble Handling
The Jetta Sport Wagon’s predictable handling makes it a joy to drive on an everyday basis. Although a sports-tuned suspension system is not available, most drivers will be perfectly content with the performance of the standard suspension. When making swift lane changes on the highway, the car displays only a minimal amount of body roll.
6) Available DSG Transmission
In the eyes of many car critics, the DSG automated manual transmission is one of the best in the industry. Available on the diesel model, the DSG transmission shifts gears quicker than the blink of an eye. The nifty Sport mode further enhances the car’s fun factor. Prospective buyers can also choose a traditional manual gearbox.
7) Unique Styling
In terms of styling, the Jetta Sport Wagon is cut from a different cloth. Unlike a lot of family sedans, the Jetta Sport Wagon has a tendency to stand out from the crowd. Although the base model comes equipped with steel wheels, the optional 17-inch alloy wheels give the car an even more refined appearance.
8) Comfortable Seats
Most people will find the Sport Wagon’s seats to be extremely cozy. Whether the owner is commuting to work or heading toward the beach, the plush seats promise to provide the utmost comfort. While cloth seats are standard on the base model, the upper-level trims come with premium leatherette seats.
9) Ample Features
Even the base S model comes well-equipped. Some of the standard goodies include heated front seats, key-less entry, and Bluetooth connectivity. However, the SE and TDI models raise the wagon’s level of luxuriousness. The 10-speaker audio system transforms the Sport Wagon into a party on wheels. Some of the other available features include navigation, a sunroof, and a rear-view camera.
10) High-Quality Interior
Do not expect to find any cheap, flimsy components in the Jetta Sport Wagon. The entire interior was designed using top-rate materials. In regards to overall quality, the Sport Wagon’s interior is on par with many of the high-end luxury sedans on the market.
All versions of the Jetta Sport Wagon come standard with a front-wheel-drive system. While the car should perform admirably in wet weather, heavy snow will pose a major obstacle. This may be a concern for the drivers who need to travel during a snowstorm.
2) Lack of Active Safety Features
While the Jetta Sport Wagon does offer good visibility, it suffers from a lack of active safety features. Features such as blind-spot monitoring and a lane departure warning system are not offered. A rear-view camera is the car’s most noteworthy safety option.
3) No High-Performance Model
A high-performance version of the Jetta Sport Wagon is not offered. A performance-focused vehicle such as the Volkswagen GTI will offer a more thrilling driving experience.
How it stacks up to the competition:
Some of the competitors include the Mazda 3 hatchback and the Subaru Outback. While these vehicles serve a similar purpose, the Jetta Sport Wagon is still in a league of its own. Although Audi offers a high-powered wagon, it is far more expensive.
Conclusion:
The 2015 Volkswagen Jetta Sport Wagon offers versatility, efficiency, and affordability. Although there are more powerful alternatives on the market, expect to pay a lot of money. The Jetta Sport Wagon’s nimble road manners and top-quality interior push it to the forefront of its segment.
What’s new for 2015?
Due to the fact that a new 2016 Jetta Sport Wagon will be released in the near future, the 2015 model remains virtually unchanged.
Reasons You May Want to Consider a 2015 Jetta Sport Wagon - The Pros
1) AffordabilityThe Jetta Sport Wagon has a starting price of around $20,000. Although there are other sporty wagons on the market, most of them are much more expensive. Since a redesigned model is scheduled to hit the market in 2016, most VW dealers will likely be offering some very attractive deals on the current model.
2) Large Amount of Cargo Space
Very few sedans can match the Jetta Sport Wagon’s cargo capacity. In fact, the hatchback area offers about 33 cubic feet of cargo space. However, the wagon’s cargo capacity expands to 67 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. From luggage to camping gear, a wide variety of different items will be able to easily fit in the rear.
3) Great Gas Mileage
With a fuel economy rating of 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the freeway, the Jetta Sport Wagon proves to be an efficient performer. On the other hand, the available diesel engine is able to deliver a whopping 42 mpg on the highway. This is good news for the drivers who are trying to budget their money wisely.
4) Punchy Engines
The Jetta Sport Wagon comes standard with a peppy 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine. When needed, the engine can pump out a lively 170 horsepower. Buyers can also step up to the TDI Clean Diesel engine. With a total of 236 pound-feet of torque on tap, the diesel motor pulls strong in all driving situations.
5) Nimble Handling
The Jetta Sport Wagon’s predictable handling makes it a joy to drive on an everyday basis. Although a sports-tuned suspension system is not available, most drivers will be perfectly content with the performance of the standard suspension. When making swift lane changes on the highway, the car displays only a minimal amount of body roll.
6) Available DSG Transmission
In the eyes of many car critics, the DSG automated manual transmission is one of the best in the industry. Available on the diesel model, the DSG transmission shifts gears quicker than the blink of an eye. The nifty Sport mode further enhances the car’s fun factor. Prospective buyers can also choose a traditional manual gearbox.
7) Unique Styling
In terms of styling, the Jetta Sport Wagon is cut from a different cloth. Unlike a lot of family sedans, the Jetta Sport Wagon has a tendency to stand out from the crowd. Although the base model comes equipped with steel wheels, the optional 17-inch alloy wheels give the car an even more refined appearance.
8) Comfortable Seats
Most people will find the Sport Wagon’s seats to be extremely cozy. Whether the owner is commuting to work or heading toward the beach, the plush seats promise to provide the utmost comfort. While cloth seats are standard on the base model, the upper-level trims come with premium leatherette seats.
9) Ample Features
Even the base S model comes well-equipped. Some of the standard goodies include heated front seats, key-less entry, and Bluetooth connectivity. However, the SE and TDI models raise the wagon’s level of luxuriousness. The 10-speaker audio system transforms the Sport Wagon into a party on wheels. Some of the other available features include navigation, a sunroof, and a rear-view camera.
10) High-Quality Interior
Do not expect to find any cheap, flimsy components in the Jetta Sport Wagon. The entire interior was designed using top-rate materials. In regards to overall quality, the Sport Wagon’s interior is on par with many of the high-end luxury sedans on the market.
Reasons you may not want to buy a 2015 Jetta Sport Wagon - The Cons
1) No All-Wheel-Drive SystemAll versions of the Jetta Sport Wagon come standard with a front-wheel-drive system. While the car should perform admirably in wet weather, heavy snow will pose a major obstacle. This may be a concern for the drivers who need to travel during a snowstorm.
2) Lack of Active Safety Features
While the Jetta Sport Wagon does offer good visibility, it suffers from a lack of active safety features. Features such as blind-spot monitoring and a lane departure warning system are not offered. A rear-view camera is the car’s most noteworthy safety option.
3) No High-Performance Model
A high-performance version of the Jetta Sport Wagon is not offered. A performance-focused vehicle such as the Volkswagen GTI will offer a more thrilling driving experience.
How it stacks up to the competition:
Some of the competitors include the Mazda 3 hatchback and the Subaru Outback. While these vehicles serve a similar purpose, the Jetta Sport Wagon is still in a league of its own. Although Audi offers a high-powered wagon, it is far more expensive.
Conclusion:
The 2015 Volkswagen Jetta Sport Wagon offers versatility, efficiency, and affordability. Although there are more powerful alternatives on the market, expect to pay a lot of money. The Jetta Sport Wagon’s nimble road manners and top-quality interior push it to the forefront of its segment.
