Volkswagen unveils the European Jetta

The American version of the Jetta was launched earlier this year, but Volkswagen has now revealed the European version, which features a greater range of engine options, as well as upgraded trim levels over its American counterpart. The European Jetta also uses a more sophisticated four-link rear suspension system like on the Golf, unlike the torsion beam system on the American car, and also has electronic steering as standard.

The new Jetta is longer than its predecessor, at 4640mm over 4550mm, and the range of engines available include a 1.2-litre TSI with 105bhp, a 1.4-litre TSI with either 122bhp or 160bhp, and the top-of-the-range 2.0-litre TSI with 200bhp. For the diesel powerplants, there is a 1.6-litre TDI with 105bhp, and a 2.0-litre TDI with 140bhp.

BlueMotion technology is available for the 1.2 TSI and 1.6 TDI models, while the DSG dual-clutch gearbox is offered on all units except for the 1.2 TSI. There will be three trim levels available, and depending on market they will be badged Trendline, Comfortline and Highline, or simply S, SE and Sport.

The base Trendline model gets features such as climate control, dust and pollen filters, height-adjustable driver's seat, multifunctional display, electrically adjustable and heated mirrors, a total of six airbags, Hill Climb Assist, ABS and ESP as standard, giving even the base Jetta a decent amount of equipment.

The Comfortline trim adds mild exterior chrome accents, 16-inch alloy wheels, 8-way adjustment of driver and front passenger seats, an upgraded radio-CD system and Park Pilot, which lowers the passenger side wing mirror when reversing.

The Highline trim level comes with all the equipment of the previous two specifications, and adds bigger alloy wheels at 17-inches, more chrome around the air intake and side windows, as well as cornering lights with a washer system. There's also a Winter Pack, with heated front seats and windscreen, alongside the Climatronic climate control system.