A brand new, swanky version of an already popular model, the hilly terrains of Rajasthan and pleasant weather, marked the launch and test drive of the all-new Volkswagen Jetta in Udaipur last month. At first glance, the new version of the popular Jetta seems like a smoother and sleeker version of the older one — the clean lines and easy curves make for a free-flowing design that’s appealing to the eye. The chrome trimmings on the windows and the trendy alloy wheels give it a very stylish finish.
Once you sit in the car and take in the fuss-free interiors, your first thought is how unchanged the dashboard is, compared to its previous version. The wood-like paneling gives a familiar feel but you wish that the designer had experimented a little. The cozy seats enhance driving comfort — especially on routes that involve diverse terrains like the one from Udaipur to Kumbhalgarh; and the roomy interiors ensure that there is enough leg space, making it perfect for a long drive. Some of the variants of this German car come with eight speakers that are a music lover’s delight. The entertainment system is similar to the one in the previous version, with little upgrades here and there, making the entire experience complete.
As you take control of the vehicle in the driver’s seat, you appreciate the Volkswagen standards of safety and security. It’s quite a delight to note how well this car absorbs a bump — the recovery time is so quick that you almost forget that you just went over a bad stretch of road. The diesel engine doesn’t sound like one but the power is there to experience — even while traversing through narrow roads and tricky junctions, the engine is smooth and doesn’t rumble or cough. The only downside — even for the average Indian height, the dashboard tends to obstruct the driver’s view of the road. That apart, the new Volkswagen Jetta is a solid car that spells comfort and security — even on nightmarish roads.