First Drive: 2016 Volkswagen Jetta 1.4 TSI

Amid the diesel dilemma currently plaguing the Volkswagen Group, I recently learned a valuable lesson: The German automaker still builds fuel efficient gas-powered cars.

Like the 2016 Jetta, a car that sheds the 2.0-litre four-cylinder synonymous with the Jetta nameplate for more than 20 years in favour of a smaller, more efficient unit.

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Replacing the 2.0-litre engine, affectionately dubbed the Two-Point-Slow, in North American Jettas is a 1.4-litre four-cylinder that sheds more than half a litre of displacement while increasing horsepower by 30 per cent and the torque count by 47 per cent.

Like its larger sibling, the 1.4-litre available in the 2016 Jetta is turbocharged, providing the extra kick-in-the-pants needed in a small displacement engine.

Turbo lag is noticeable, though the torque band—1,400-3,500 rpm—is generous in a typically Volkswagen manner, making up for the slow-spooling snail in a hurry.

With 150 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque, this thing certainly isn't going to set any econobox landspeed records—that's what the new Golf R is for—but offers impressive giddyup in spite of its size.

While not as small as other European-derived engines recently moved to North America like the 1.0-litre available in the Ford Focus, this engine is a step in the right direction for compacts this side of the Atlantic.

Fuel economy, too, is trending in the right direction with the new 1.4-litre under the hood, improving slightly to 6 L/100 km on the highway and 8.5 L/100 km in the city.

Having driven the 2.0-litre Jetta in the past, this engine is a welcome upgrade, with smooth power delivery and plenty of response.

Elsewhere the Jetta is largely unchanged compared to the 2015 version, with the exception of the new MIB II infotainment system.

The new interface is smoother and quicker than the outgoing version and, with the addition of the connectivity package, can run iPhone and Android devices through Volkswagen’s new App-Connect feature.

Not available on the base Trendline trim, the connectivity package is a $400 option on the Trendline+ and standard on the Comfortline, and includes satellite radio and a larger six-inch touchscreen.

Sure, the Jetta’s not going to turn many heads on the road, but this new 1.4 TSI definitely brings the popular sedan into this century.

And with diesel sales on hold until Volkswagen solves the emissions issue it is currently facing, this new range is definitely worth a look.

Base price: $15,995

As tested: $22,200 (freight included)