TEST DRIVE: 2014 Volkswagen Jetta 1.4TSI CKD - The wolf in sheepskin

A Volkswagen Jetta is simply the iconic Volkswagen Golf with a boot. But it actually isn't as straight forward as that in the first place because Volkswagen does not simply slap on a boot onto the Golf. Take for example the current CKD (locally assembled) Jetta 1.4TSI that I tested here, it is actually based on the previous generation Volkswagen Golf Mk6 chassis with a longer wheelbase and totally different body panels. The Jetta also does not drive like the Mk6 Golf 1.4TSI nor does it feel like a Mk7 Golf 1.4TSI. But I'll get to that in a bit.

Volkswagen launches the locally assembled Jetta TSI

I attended the launch of the locally assembled (CKD) Volkswagen Jetta TSI yesterday. The car is about RM21,000 cheaper than the imported variant but still has 6 airbags, an audio system with Bluetooth, USB, Ipod, AUX with 6 speakers and a whole lot of family friendly features in a 4 door sedan body.

The event was pretty unique in that VW Group brought in their design head of the Asian design studios to explain a little about Volkswagen's DNA and styling cues. Of course, ultimately, the Jetta is a C segment family sedan and with that, is bound by a certain set of design rules and criteria within the VW Group. It may be handsome looking but you can't let it look too Audi-like in case Audi customers or the blokes designing Audis feel 'threathened'. Of course, Volkswagen can go bonkers, like their XL1 car recently. This Jetta has to make the numbers for them to build cars which are a little mad at times.