The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta is a mild-mannered, well-equipped compact sedan.
Pros Docile personality High-tech options Good safety gear Styling will age well
Cons Docile personality Breaks little new ground Conservative, almost to a fault Unsupportive front seats
The 2019 Jetta is marginally bigger than the old car, continuing a trend that has seen the Jetta grow to roughly the size of the fondly remembered B5-generation 1997–2005 Passat. The Jetta’s wheelbase has been stretched 1.3 inches to 105.7 inches, which helps the car maintain its proportions even with an overall length that has grown to 185.1 inches.
Pros Classy interior, responsive 1.4-liter turbo, slick manual available.
Cons Mute steering, smaller trunk, no GLI at launch.
The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta ranked #18 in Compact Cars. Currently the Volkswagen Jetta has a score of 8.2 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 12 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Good gas mileage Smooth ride All-day supportive seats User-friendly infotainment system
Cons Competitors are more upscale Less fun-to-drive than rivals
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu ranked #16 in Midsize Cars. Currently the Chevrolet Malibu has a score of 7.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 22 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Supple ride Spacious seats Easy-to-use infotainment system
Cons Low-rent interior Unsupportive seats
For 2019, the Chevrolet Malibu actually offers all three: a bigger, restyled grille; a new RS model; and an all-new continuously variable automatic transmission. Known internally as VT40, it’s General Motors’ first CVT since 2005. That one, used primarily in Saturn brand vehicles, was problematic and had high failure rates, which led GM to offer an extended warranty.
Pros Comfortable ride CVT can mimic a traditional automatic.
Cons No performance upgrades, a good CVT is still a CVT.
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu is a likeable sedan, but it requires some compromises when it comes to essential safety tech.
PROS Good looks Excellent performance from turbo engines Thrifty hybrid Excellent tech story
CONS Active safety gear costs too much Hardly engaging to drive Dull interior Light on personality
