The Jetta returns for 2023 with minimal changes.

The 2023 Jetta is available in five trim levels. They include S, SE, SEL, and Sport trims. All trims share the same 1.5L turbo-charged inline four-cylinder engine producing 184 foot-pounds of torque at a mere 1400 RPM. A choice of two transmissions is available a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic. Horsepower is 158 with an astounding 40 miles per gallon highway rating.

The Jetta GLI is available in only one trim the Autobahn, both powered by as 2L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic transmission. The Jetta GLI produces 228 horsepower and 258 foot-pounds of torque at 1700 RPM.

Base S trim models come very nicely equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity and automatic LED headlights. On the inside there's a 6-way adjustable cloth driver's seat, cruise control, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, and a 6.5-inch infotainment system with a USB slot and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto/MirrorLink smartphone integration.

The SE trim adds passive entry, push-button start, a leatherette steering wheel, heated seats, and V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces.

Stepping up to SEL trim buyers are treated to a BeatsAudio stereo system, a sunroof, 10-color interior ambient lighting, VW Digital Cockpit, wireless phone charging, a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, heated wiper jets, and a remote starter.

The GLI Autobahn features 18-inch alloy wheels a power sunroof, push-button start, LED headlights, a 10.25-inch instrument display, heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, driver seat memory, automatic dual-zone climate control, a HD satellite radio with 9 premium speakers, an 8-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, wireless device charging, and 4 USB ports.

Standard and available safety features are plentiful on the Jetta, among the best lineup in the segment. Volkswagen offers standard features for S trim that include electronic stability control, engine brake-assist, front and side thorax airbags, curtain airbags, tire pressure monitoring, and its Intelligent Crash Response System. Available features for higher trims include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking, rear traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring.

With rivals like the Honda Civic, Mazda3, and Subaru Impreza the Jetta stands out by being a jack of all trades, offering a little bit of everything to buyers. A more modern take to a classic looking exterior, spacious interior, an excellent driving experience, on top of great standard equipment and gas mileage, make the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta a contender to take down the near dozen contenders occupying the segment.

Modern styling; practical and spacious interior; 40 mpg highway estimate; plenty of in-cabin entertainment options; advanced safety features