Key facts
- The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta Sport is priced at $25,305, making it one of the cheapest new cars available.
- It is equipped with a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 158 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.
- The vehicle achieves a combined fuel economy of 33 mpg, with 40 mpg on the highway.
- The car features an eight-speed automatic transmission and uses its brakes as an electronic limited-slip differential.
- Notable interior features include a physical key ignition, an 8-inch infotainment screen, and physical buttons on the steering wheel.
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta Sport is positioned as one of the most affordable new cars on the market, with a starting price of $25,305. It features a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the car offers a respectable 40 mpg on the highway and a combined 33 mpg, its initial driving experience was noted for challenging power delivery, particularly in heavy traffic, with a significant surge of torque appearing above 2,500 rpm.
The reviewer found that the car's initial response to throttle inputs could be abrupt, leading to unintended acceleration. An unusual alert for winter tires also proved distracting. However, during a more spirited drive on twisty roads, the Jetta Sport revealed a more engaging character, especially when utilizing the manual mode of the transmission to better control engine RPMs and avoid the "nothing, nothing, nothing—WHOA" power band. The steering was found to provide sufficient feedback, and the car's electronic systems, including the use of brakes as a limited-slip differential, aided cornering.
Inside, the Jetta Sport retains some traditional features, such as a physical key ignition and physical buttons on the multifunction steering wheel, alongside an 8-inch infotainment screen that supports Apple CarPlay. The climate controls are managed via a capacitive panel. Despite initial reservations, the reviewer concluded that while not a top-tier choice, the Jetta Sport is a competent and affordable option, especially for those seeking a new vehicle within a strict budget.