Volkswagen Jetta Sedan Facelift caught in the nude

The Volkswagen Jetta Facelift is getting readied up for a launch in India, and a completely un-camouflaged version caught by CarToq’s sharp shooter team indicates that the launch is close by. The facelift is a mid life makeover for Volkswagen’s top selling mid-size sedan, globally. This indicates that the changes will not be extensive but incremental in nature. Consequently, mild tweaks to the exteriors and interiors are in order. Dimensions don’t change. Engine and transmission options will continue unchanged, with power and torque outputs likely to see minor bump ups in keeping with global changes.

First, the looks. The 2015 Jetta will get a revamped front end, replete with a new headlamps, grille and bumper job. The alloy wheels get a redesign while tail lamps see minor tweaks. On the inside, changes include a multi-function steering wheel, revised AC vents, piano black finish for center console and the gearshift surround, chrome lined instrumentation cluster and climate control functions, ambient lighting and revised seats with new fabric pattern. The car sold in India will be CKD assembled, and competition will come from the Skoda Octavia, the Toyota Corolla Altis and the Chevrolet Cruze.

The 1.4 liter TSI turbo petrol (138 Bhp-200 Nm) and 2.0 liter TDI turbo diesel (148 Bhp-320 Nm) engines in four cylinder trims are expected to continue powering the Jetta sold here. With a front wheel drive layout as standard fare, a 6 speed manual transmission on the petrol and a 6 speed twin clutch automatic gearbox on the diesel will put torque on the ground. A sure footed handler with premium fit and finish levels, the Teuton engineered Jetta will be sold as a solidly built sedan meant to impress buyers who value understated appeal. In terms of pricing, a mild upward revision from current levels could be on the cards.

Volkswagen India’s Future Plans

The Jetta is an illustrious vehicle in the Volkswagen group. The sedan has been around for over three and a half decades, after first being launched in 1979. Volkswagen has sold over 14 million units of the car globally. While the current and the facelifted versions of the car use the PQ71 platform, the next-generation version will hop onto the MQB platform. The facelifted car was unveiled last year, at the New York Motor Show, and is now designed to look more like the outgoing Passat. Later this year, Volkswagen will also bring the B8 Passat luxury saloon to India. Like the Jetta, the Passat will also be CKD assembled here.