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Volkswagen builds cars and SUVs with German engineering and practical fun. From the GTI hot-hatch to the Touareg SUV, VWs make every trip a good time. However, the most economical is possibly the Jetta.

The VW Jetta is the brand’s compact sedan, sized and priced below the recently discontinued Passat. So, how much can car shoppers expect to pay for a 2024 Volkswagen Jetta both at its base level and top trim with all the bells and whistles?

The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta S entry-level trim

The base-trim 2024 Volkswagen Jetta S blends practicality, style, and efficiency. At $21,345 (plus destination), it’s quite the bargain.

Outside, the VW Jetta S offers low-key good looks. The wide grille offers a classic Volkswagen smile, and LED headlights and taillights add a touch of tech. Creased bodywork adds modern flair and 16-inch alloy wheels look sharp.

Under the hood, VW’s turbocharging expertise is on full display via a turbo 1.5-liter four-cylinder with 158 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. That gets routed through a standard six-speed manual or an optional eight-speed auto. Front-wheel drive provides all-conditions versatility. Additionally, fuel economy is a superb 29/42/34 city/highway/combined mpg (manual transmission).

Inside, the Jetta S has a functional, modern layout with basic materials and solid tech. Cloth upholstery provides durability and comfort. Metal accents add a touch of class. Digital gauges are high-tech and useful. Additionally, an eco-leather-wrapped trimmed steering wheel, leather gear shift knob bring style, while rain-sensing windshield wipers and an auto-dimming rearview mirror bring practicality.

A 6.5-inch digital touchscreen infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth streaming. Dual front USB-C ports provide charging and a data connection.

Standard driver’s assistance tech includes forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. 

For the 2024 model year, every VW Jetta with an automatic transmission includes IQ.DRIVE driver’s assistance technology. Features include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Assist and Travel Assist, Blind-Sport Monitor w/RTA, Forward Collision Warning, and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist). 

What’s included in the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?

The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta SEL ($28,825 plus destination) adds upscale luxury and tech while still having an affordable price.

Exterior-wise, the SELtrim brings sophisticated upgrades all around. LED projector headlights and DRLs, LED taillights, LED license plate lighting, and a grill-integrated light bar create a sleek ambiance. 17-inch alloy wheels look sporty, and a panoramic sunroof brings the thrill of open-air motoring.

The same turbo 1.5-liter four provides power, but on the SEL, the eight-speed auto/FWD drivetrain is standard. Gas mileage is still an excellent 29/40/33 city/highway/combined mpg.

However, it’s the SEL’s interior that sets it apart. Leather upholstery adds supple comfort. A heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel makes cold mornings a little easier. Ambient interior lighting sets a calm mood. And Air Care Climatronic dual-zone climate control lets everyone find their perfect temperature.

It doesn’t stop there. An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes navigation for accurate directions far and wide. Wireless charging keeps devices topped off on the go. BeatsAudio makes music sound even better. Additionally, the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro 10.25-inch gauge display is fully configurable. 

And for enhanced safety, the suite of IQ.DRIVE driver’s assistance technology comes standard. 

Accessories and add-ons for the VW Jetta

Among value-priced sedans, the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta is a solid pick. And to make it even better, VW offers ample accessories and add-ons. Here are some of our favorites. 

For adventure-minded drivers, adding base carrier bars ($415) opens a range of possibilities. Once installed, they can carry the bike holder attachment ($250), the cargo box attachment ($790), and more. 

To keep the Jetta in great shape inside and out, we’d opt for the MuddyBuddy floor liner ($200) and the splash guards ($130).

For rear passenger entertainment, the universal tablet holder ($115) fastens to the front seat backs. 

The 2024 VW Jetta is an ideal combo of value, efficiency, and versatility. With subtle good looks, the German sedan has solid curb appeal. The turbo 1.5-liter four has peppy performance and excellent fuel economy. Lastly, with a cost-to-feature ratio that’s among the best, drivers on a budget can enjoy a well-engineered European car.