2026 Volkswagen Jetta: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta is mostly a carryover, with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as its main update. The SE also gains a standard sunroof, while the SEL gets a new premium sound system with a subwoofer.
About the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta
7th-generation Jetta (A7), facelifted for 2025; 2026 is the second year of the refreshed version.
Volkswagen markets the Jetta as a compact sedan with a more polished, grown-up feel than many basic commuter cars. The big draw is a mix of clean styling, standard turbo power, strong highway fuel economy, and driver-assistance tech that is standard instead of reserved for expensive trims. For most shoppers, the Jetta is the sedan choice for everyday commuting and family use when they want a traditional four-door with a slightly more upscale feel than many mainstream compact rivals.
The Jetta remains a straightforward compact sedan with a 158-hp turbo engine, front-wheel drive, an 8-speed automatic, and a standard driver-assistance suite. The Sport adds darker exterior details and heated front seats, the SE focuses on everyday comfort, and the SEL tops the regular lineup with leather seating, built-in navigation, and heated and ventilated front seats.
What changed, by category
2026 Volkswagen Jetta specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd & Tiptronic | Automatic, 8-Spd & Tiptronic | Automatic, 8-Spd & Tiptronic | Automatic, 8-Spd & Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | 29 mpg | 29 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 40 mpg | 40 mpg | 40 mpg | 40 mpg |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 158 hp | 158 hp | 158 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.1 cu-ft | 14.1 cu-ft | 14.1 cu-ft | 14.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.4 in | 37.4 in | 37.4 in | 37.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta?
The biggest change is standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on every 2026 Jetta trim. Previously, wireless smartphone integration was not standard across the full lineup.
Is the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta redesigned?
No, the 2026 Jetta is not redesigned. It is the second model year of the refreshed version introduced for 2025, so its styling, cabin layout, and basic mechanical package largely carry over.
Is the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta worth considering over the 2025 model?
The 2026 Jetta is the more convenient choice if wireless smartphone integration matters, since it is standard on every trim. The 2026 SE also has a standard sunroof, and the SEL gains a new premium sound system with a subwoofer; otherwise, the two years are very similar.
Did the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta engine change?
No, the 2026 Jetta keeps its 158-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive. There is no confirmed lineup-wide powertrain change for this year.
Which 2026 Volkswagen Jetta trims received equipment updates?
The S and Sport gain standard wireless smartphone integration, as does the rest of the lineup. The SE’s sunroof becomes standard, while the SEL receives a new premium sound system with a subwoofer.