For the 2022 model year, the Volkswagen Jetta has been updated with a new engine, refreshed styling, a new Sport trim, and upgraded interior tech in an affordable package. As standard, the 2022 Jetta base model is powered by the same 1.5-liter engine as the Taos compact SUV rated at 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

Not only is it more powerful than the 2021 model, but it's also more efficient. The EPA has released the official economy figures for the 2022 Jetta, rating the base model at 29/43/34 mpg city/highway/combined when equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. Moving up the range, S models equipped with the optional eight-speed automatic transmission have an estimated rating of 31/41/35 mpg city/highway/combined.

Equipped with the optional eight-speed automatic transmission, SE and SEL models have an estimated rating of 29/40/33 mpg. For comparison, the manual 2021 Jetta is rated at 30/41/34 mpg while the automatic version returns 29/39/33 mpg.

Like last year's model, the Jetta GLI utilizes a turbocharged 2.0-liter EA888 engine good for 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The EPA rates VW's more powerful 2.0-liter turbo at 26/37/30 mpg with the six-speed manual and 26/36/30 mpg with the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. That makes it less thirsty than last year's GLI, showing that a performance sedan can be both fun and frugal.

For reference, the 2021 Jetta GLI is rated at 24/33/28 mpg with the manual and 24/35/28 mpg with the automatic. The EPA's economy ratings are based on regular unleaded fuel. According to the government agency, 2022 Jetta owners will save an estimated $1,500 in fuel costs over five years compared to the national average new vehicle, while GLI owners could save up to $500.

Pricing for the 2022 Jetta is still unavailable, but it should cost around the same as the 2021 model, which starts at $19,000, while the GLI starts at $26,345. Sales will get underway by the end of the year.