The 2019 VW Jetta also packs some nifty surprises. Some other available and unexpected features include rain-sensing windshield wipers and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Also, the new sporty R-Line model uses VW鈥檚 XDS electronic front differential, which migrated down from the performance-based GLI and Golf GTI, for better handling. The new Jetta has upped its game in infotainment, one of the most important aspects for not just new-car buyers, but specifically the younger owners the Jetta targets. Every Jetta now includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and even the lesser-known MirrorLink. This means it will directly integrate with the majority of smartphones and allow the driver to do things like listen to and respond to texts while keeping his/her hands on the wheel. Broadly called Car-Net, Volkswagen鈥檚 basic setup for the Jetta includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen with AM/FM radio, Bluetooth streaming and a single USB input. The upgraded system has an 8-inch screen, adds HD Radio (free digital broadcasts), two USB inputs and a CD player, something that more and more automakers are dropping.
Navigation is also available with this higher-spec setup. The 2019 Jetta also marks Volkswagen鈥檚 partnership with BeatsAudio, the company co-founded by Dr. Dre and now a subsidiary of Apple. This premium audio system replaces the Fender system formerly available in the Jetta (but still offered in other VW cars). The system boasts eight speakers plus a subwoofer and pumps out 400 watts. In our trial run, we found the sound good, clean and powerful, without suffering from bloated bass. This seventh-gen Jetta has increased slightly in size, and with the expansion comes additional interior roominess. Front-seat room still trails that of the slightly smaller Honda Civic, but hardly feels claustrophobic. At 37.4 inches, rear-seat legroom has decreased slightly from the previous generation but still matches that of the Civic and is commendable for a compact car. The Jetta鈥檚 5-passenger cabin remains Euro chic -- a dash that has just the necessary buttons and a layout that is canted toward the driver. Simple cloth is reserved only for base models. Higher trims get faux leather, while the topline Jetta SEL Premium has the real stuff. Our biggest gripe with the interior came from an unexpected place -- the shelf behind the rear seats. For some reason it鈥檚 slanted up, which decreases outward visibility (thank heaven for a standard backup camera). When asked why this was the case, the best a VW spokesperson could come up with was something about the trunk hinges. Adding to this, the whole thing is made of a plastic material that can reflect the sun, causing glare on bright days.
The X2 also has a widened version of BMW's signature double kidney grille. The 228-horsepower xDrive28i, which goes on sale in the U.S. March, is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It's mated to an eight-speed transmission. The 192-horsepower sDrive28i goes on sale later this spring. Drivers can flip a switch and choose a driving mode, from comfort, eco-friendly or sport. The suspension can also be lowered for more dynamic driving. On the optional M Sport X Package, drivers get gearshift paddles on the steering wheel for quicker shifting. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of iconic movie "Bullitt" and its fan-favorite San Francisco car chase, Ford introduces the new 2019 Mustang Bullitt at the North American International Auto Show, Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018, in Detroit. Sean Kiernan sits in one of the two original cars used in filming of "Bullitt" as Ford introduces the new 2019 Mustang Bullitt, not pictured, at the North American International Auto Show, Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018, in Detroit. Ford Motor Company Executive Vice President of Product Development and Purchasing Hau Thai-Tang introduces the 2019 Ford Edge ST at the North American International Auto Show, Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018, in Detroit.
Herbert Diess, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, introduces the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta, Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018, in Detroit. Following a press conference, members of the media photograph the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta at the North American International Auto Show Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018, in Detroit. Herbert Diess, member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, addresses the media before introducing the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta at the North American International Auto Show, Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018, in Detroit. Volkswagen CEO of the North American Region Hinrich J. Woebcken addresses the media before the introduction of the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta at the North American International Auto Show, Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018, in Detroit. The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta is introduced to the media at the North American International Auto Show, Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018, in Detroit. Members of the media look over the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta at the North American International Auto Show, Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018, in Detroit.
