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2026 Volkswagen Jetta: What’s New in the Compact Sedan?

2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport at Molle Volkswagen in Kansas City

The VW Jetta has long been a popular choice for drivers thanks to its practicality, reliability, comfort, and safety features. Now, VW has released the 2026 VW Jetta to the market, and there are some very interesting specs and features that continue to keep it at the forefront of sedans. In this 2026 VW Jetta review, we’ll look at what’s stayed the same, what’s changed, and why the Jetta should be your next choice for a new vehicle.

2026 VW Jetta Specs

2026 Volkswagen Jetta at Molle Volkswagen in Kansas City

Like the previous year, the 2026 VW Jetta uses the same engine: a turbo 1.5L four-cylinder engine. With this under the hood, you’ll have control over 158 horsepower and a comfortable-but-fun 184 pound-feet of torque. That said, VW has retuned the engine to deliver better fuel efficiency for the owner’s benefit. This proves that as years roll by, components become more efficient thanks to the manufacturer.

Unless you opt for the 2026 VW Jetta GLI (which has a six-speed manual transmission), you’ll work with an eight-speed automatic transmission when you drive the 2026 Jetta. Regardless of your chosen 2026 Jetta trim, you’ll operate a front-wheel drive configuration. All-wheel drive is, unfortunately, unavailable. However, this vehicle was made for Kansas City and suburban streets, so it won’t be missed.

2026 VW Jetta MPG

Here’s where things get a little more interesting:

  • The 2025 VW Jetta is rated for 29 MPG city and 40 MPG highway.
  • The 2026 VW Jetta, thanks to special tuning, gets 31 MPG in the city and 42 MPG on the highway.

While it may seem like a minor improvement, the superior numbers of the 2026 Jetta will save drivers near KC, Belton, Grandview, and beyond a fortune in fuel costs.

2025 VW Jetta Interior

2025 VW Jetta Interior

There aren’t many updates to the interior vs the 2025 VW Jetta: both fit up to five passengers with 94.7 cubic feet of passenger volume. The cargo space also stays the same at 14.1 cubic feet in the trunk. That said, it comes with ample legroom to ensure that riders won't feel cramped, whether they’re in the front or back seats. Cloth seats come standard, though leather is available for upgrade and standard on upper-level trims. The higher-level trims also feature ventilated front seats and ambient lighting with customizable color options for an added touch of luxury.

2026 VW Jetta Technology Updates

2026 VW Jetta Technology Updates

For the 2026 VW Jetta’s technology updates, the lower trims get a standard 8” infotainment system, while the higher trims get an updated and larger 10.3” model, though Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard across all trims (wireless connectivity being reserved for the highest-level trims). USB ports for charging come standard, and wireless charging is included in the upper trims. Higher trims also get keyless entry and push-button start, as well as native navigation, and a sunroof is available.

Test Drive the 2026 VW Jetta in Kansas City

Test Drive the 2026 VW Jetta in Kansas City

Head down to Molle Volkswagen today to explore our lineup of the 2026 VW Jetta or any of our other new VW vehicles. Contact us today to get started and to schedule a test drive.

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2026 Volkswagen Atlas at Molle Volkswagen in Kansas City

Best Vehicles for Families: The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas

Best Vehicles for Families: The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas The three-row midsize SUV segment is one of the most sought-after in the car biz, and it’s easy to see why. They offer some of the best seating and storage capacity in the game, and it comes in a package that’s both easy to drive and easy on the fuel bill. But, with so many options, how are shoppers supposed to narrow it down to the best SUV for families? Hot off a refresh for the 2024 model year, the Volkswagen Atlas combines all of the features that make a great ride for all the kid-havers out there. Let’s check out all the ways it’s gotten even better this year. 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Price and Trims The Atlas is available in multiple different grades, all of which combine luxury-level amenities with impressive value. • Atlas SE – $37,995 • Atlas SE with Technology – $42,100 • Atlas Peak Edition SE with Technology – $46,990 • Atlas SEL – $48,880 • Atlas Peak Edition SEL – $50,870 • Atlas SEL Premium R-Line – $52,890 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Performance All Atlas models come standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which has 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, and it’s paired up with an eight-speed transmission. The engine has been given a torque boost compared to years past, and Car and Driver noted in their review that it has noticeably better throttle response. Front-wheel drive is standard, and 4MOTION all-wheel drive is available across all models. No matter which drivetrain you choose, the Atlas has some seriously range-topping towing capacity at 5,000 max pounds, making it perfect for hauling campers, toy haulers, and trailers. When equipped with front-wheel drive, fuel economy for the Atlas shakes out to 20 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the highway. 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Dimensions and Interior A big part of the redesign for the Atlas includes a major upgrade in the interior ambiance and upholstery materials. The cabin is designed with maximum pragmatism in mind, and it features ample cupholders and cubby space for an imminently kid-friendly experience. It also has some of the best seating and cargo dimensions among the competition. Many three-row SUVs seem to simply cram the rear seats in as an afterthought, but the Atlas has a third row that easily accommodates a pair of full-sized adults. And, with the seats folded down, it houses an absolutely cavernous storage space for everything from moving to weekend grocery missions. Here are the full interior dimensions for the 2024 Atlas: 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Head room 1st row/2nd row/3rd row 41.3 in / 40.4 in / 38.3 in Shoulder room 1st row/2nd row/3rd row 61.5 in / 60.5 in / 54.9 in Hip room 1st row/2nd row/3rd row 58.4 in / 58.6 in / 45.1 in Leg room 1st row/2nd row/3rd row 41.7 in / 37.6 in / 33.7 in Total passenger volume 153.7 cu ft Cargo volume Behind 3rd row 20.6 cu ft Cargo volume Behind 2nd row 55.5 cu ft Cargo volume Behind 1st row 96.6 cu ft 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Tech and Safety Even at the less expensive trim levels, the Atlas comes remarkably well-equipped. A 12-inch touch screen is standard across the board, and it comes capable with standard wireless device connectivity (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay), wireless device charging, and at least six USB-C ports scattered throughout the passenger area. All models are also configurable with the VW Digital Cockpit Pro information and nav display, which also helps with safety features. Speaking of safety—the list of standard ADAS includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, auto E-braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane change assist, rear traffic alert with exit warning, and an intelligent crash response system. The body safety cage is also extra reinforced, which might be part of the reason why the 2024 model won a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS. Safest SUV for the family? Check. 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Warranty Coverage and Value One of the best perks of buying a new Volkswagen is the superior coverage that comes along with it through the Carefree Coverage program. Perks include: • Scheduled Carefree Maintenance – 2 years or 20,000 miles • New Vehicle Limited Warranty – 4 years or 50,000 miles • 24/7 Roadside Assistance – 3 years or 36,000 miles • Remote Features through the myVW app – 5 years Find the Best Family Vehicles at Molle Volkswagen If you’re in the market for your next people mover, we offer some of the finest new and pre-owned SUVs in the Greater Kansas City area. Check out or website to see our monthly specials to find out how you can save tons of money on a Volkswagen Atlas near you.

Car deal

Tips to Maximize Your Car’s Trade-in Value in Kansas City

Nothing lasts forever, and unfortunately, that includes cars. At some point, almost every car owner will have to get rid of their old ride and buy a new one. You can always sell it directly to someone else, but that process often turns into a major headache for everyone involved. The easier solution? Simply trade it into the dealership. While it’s true that trading isn’t always as lucrative as selling on the private market, there are plenty of lifehacks you can use to squeeze more money out of your trade-in deal. Read on to discover our top tips. Research Your Car’s Value When you start to consider trading your car in, before you ever visit a dealership or talk to a salesman, do some research to get a rough estimate of your car’s trade-in value. There are plenty of places to do this online—sites like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds are two of the most popular, and you can also value your trade on your local dealership’s website, which may also come with an appraisal or cash offer. To get the most accurate idea, it’s best practice to value your trade on multiple websites. Having a good idea of your car’s value is crucial when the time comes to negotiate later. Keep Service Records If you have your car worked on—whether it be at the dealership, by local mechanic, or DIY—always keep receipts filed away in a safe place. Detailed service records are another excellent tool when negotiating a car’s trade-in value because it proves that the car has a solid track record and has been well-maintained. Get Multiple Appraisals When you finally start visiting dealerships to get an official trade-in appraisal, it’s tempting to go with the first offer. However, different dealerships may give you different dollar amounts, so experts often recommend going to at least three different ones before making a final decision. Remember, you can easily value your trade online at most major dealerships. Detail Your Car “Detailing” is auto industry slang that basically means a deep cleaning. You can have this done professionally, but spending money certainly isn’t necessary. Simply vacuum the carpets and upholstery thoroughly, wipe down any hard surfaces, and give your vehicle a good wash, and it can pay off big time. When dealerships value a car, cleanliness is a major consideration. In fact, it can even make the difference between a “rough trade-in” and a “clean trade-in,” which can get you hundreds more dollars on your appraisal. Fix Minor Issues If your vehicle has major mechanical or electronic problems, it may not be worth it to fix them before you trade. However, any easily fixable issues like burnt out headlamps and taillights, worn out windshield wipers, and small exterior paint chipping should be taken care of. Much like a good detail job, fixing these issues can have a significant impact on your car’s appraisal. Trade at the Right Time Sometimes, when people trade a car in, it’s because it’s on its last legs and they need a new ride fast. But, if you’re lucky enough to choose when you trade, trading at certain times of the year can net you more value. For instance, you may get more for trading a convertible in the summer than you would in the winter. Trade-in values can also fluctuate based on the economy and the state of the car business, so trading when there’s a high demand for used vehicles can be massively beneficial. Don’t Be Scared to Negotiate Don’t forget, you don’t have to accept the first offer you get. If you did your research, kept service records, and got other offers, now is the time to break them out to see if you can get a higher dollar amount. Frequently Asked Questions Does my trade-in count as a down payment? Absolutely. Trading your old vehicle in can be an excellent way to cover some of the necessary down payment when financing your next car, and in some cases, it may even cover the entire down payment. What is the best time to trade my car in? The less miles a car has, the more money you’ll likely get, and some sources recommend trading in between 3 to 5 years old if you bought a new vehicle because the factory warranty likely won’t have expired. However, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Broadly speaking, it’s never a bad time to trade a vehicle as long as it’s been well-maintained and is still in good mechanical shape. What is a rough trade-in? When we say, “rough trade-in,” we mean a car that is exceptionally dirty, has glaring cosmetic issues, needs major mechanical repairs, or some combination of the three. These vehicles require a lot of work for the dealership to refurbish, so if you have a rough trade, you won’t get nearly as much as if it was in good condition. Can I trade my car if I still owe money on it? Yes, in most cases you can trade a vehicle even if you’re still paying on the loan. You generally have two options: either roll your remaining payments into the new loan, or use your trade-in to pay off the old loan. What does it mean if I’m “upside down” on a car loan? Being “upside down” on a car loan mean that you owe more than the vehicle is actually worth. This is otherwise known as negative equity. Get Top Dollar for Your Trade in Kansas City If you’re looking to get the most out of your trade-in, use our easy online Value Your Trade tool to get an appraisal in seconds. After that, you can browse a top-notch selection of new Volkswagen models and affordable used cars for sale to find your next dream ride. Contact us online or call 816-941-9500 to get started today.

Which VW SUV is Right for Your Kansas City Family?

Choosing the right car can feel daunting, and that goes double when you’re trying to pick a vehicle that works for the whole family. There are quite a few factors to consider, including size, seating capacity, gas mileage, safety; it goes without saying that finding a ride that checks all the boxes isn’t always easy. The good news is that our Volkswagen dealership in Kansas City has a wide range of vehicles for every lifestyle, including five different SUVs to choose from. If you’re wondering which one is best for your family, read on. 2026 Volkswagen Taos Starting price: $26,500 Fuel economy: 28 mpg city / 36 mpg hwy Seating capacity: 5 Cargo room: 27.9 cu ft (behind 2nd row) / 65.9 cu ft (behind 1st row) The Taos has a lot going for it: It’s the most affordable Volkswagen SUV in the lineup, and it also gets the best average fuel economy, making it an excellent choice for families looking to max out their savings on a new car. And don’t let its compact size fool you, because it still boasts plenty of space—especially with the back row folded—and the versatile 60/40 split rear seats allow for multiple cargo configurations. Top it off with standard tech features like IQ.DRIVE and an 8-inch center screen with wireless App-Connect®, and you have a winning recipe for groups who don’t need a large vehicle to get the job done. Consider the VW Taos if: You’re trying to keep your spending low You prioritize saving money on fuel You prefer smaller vehicles that are easier to maneuver 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan Starting price: $30,805 Fuel economy: 29 mpg city / 34 mpg hwy Seating capacity: 5 Cargo room: 33.8 cu ft (behind 2nd row) / 69.8 cu ft (behind 1st row) The Tiguan has been holding it down as Volkswagen’s best-selling model for years now, largely thanks to its wealth of tech features, solid gas mileage, and “just-the-right-size” proportions that make it a great option for families who need something larger than the Taos but still want a vehicle that isn’t unwieldy. In fact, we often recommend this one for younger drivers, largely due to its size and extensive safety features. It also saw a recent ground-up redesign for the 2025 model, bringing it modern and tech-filled interior that’s ideal for the family on the go. Consider the VW Tiguan if: You’re looking for an excellent all-around SUV that can do just about anything You want something spacious but still want to spend less money You have teenagers who regularly use the car 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Starting price: $38,300 Fuel economy: 23 mpg city / 27 mpg hwy Seating capacity: 5 Cargo room: 40.3 cu ft (behind 2nd row) / 77.6 cu ft (behind 1st row) The Atlas Cross Sport is sort of like a perfect happy medium between the Tiguan and the Atlas. It has significantly more space than the compact Tiguan, allowing for a spacious second row that’s fit for adults and acres of storage space in the back compartment. It also has the same tech and comfort amenities as the Atlas, as well as its rugged off-road and towing capabilities, which is a major benefit for families who take frequent road trips or enjoy an outdoorsy lifestyle. Consider the VW Atlas Cross Sport if: You want a midsize SUV but don’t need extra seating You prioritize the latest tech and comfort features You enjoy camping and light off-roading 2026 Volkswagen Atlas Starting price: $39,310 Fuel economy: 23 mpg city / 27 mpg hwy Seating capacity: 6 to 7 Cargo room: 20.6 cu ft (behind 3rd row) / 55.5 cu ft (behind 2nd row) / 96.6 cu ft (behind 1st row) The Atlas is the largest SUV offering from Volkswagen, smaller only than the ID. Buzz electric bus. Since the Tiguan phased out its third-row option, it’s also the only SUV in the lineup that seats up to seven people, making it an obvious contender for bigger families, and it has absolutely cavernous interior with all the seats folded. Standard features like the 12-inch center touch screen display, wireless phone charging, and Wi-Fi capability are sure to keep parents happy as well, and with its burly engine, it even has enough oomph to pull modestly sized boats and travel trailers to your next vacation destination. Consider the VW Atlas if: You need extra seating for the kids You regularly have a lot of cargo to carry You want one of the safest SUVs available 2026 Volkswagen ID.4 Starting price: $45,095 Fuel economy: 122 MPGe city / 104 MPGe hwy Seating capacity: 5 Cargo room: 30.3 cu ft (behind 2nd row) / 64.2 cu ft (behind 1st row) The ID.4 is the company’s only electric SUV currently available in America (for now), which makes it the no-brainer option for eco-conscious families who want to eliminate their dependency on fuel. With a maximum range of 291 miles and NACS compatibility, you can drive anxiety-free knowing you’ll never run out of juice, and its shockingly spacious cabin will appeal to families who are drawn to the Tiguan, which has similar dimensions. Throw in standard features like a 12.9-inch center display screen, wireless phone charging, and tons of IQ.DRIVE smart safety features, and you have a top-notch option for EV adopters. Consider the VW ID.4 if: Your family wants to leave gas stations behind You already have an EV charger in your home You prefer a compact SUV that’s still roomy Frequently Asked Questions Which VW SUV has the most cargo space? The Atlas has up to 96.6 cubic feet of cargo space, which makes it the roomiest SUV and the second biggest in the entire VW lineup, only coming behind the ID. Buzz. Which VW SUV is the safest? Nearly all Volkswagen SUVs have a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, making them all incredibly safe as a whole. The Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport also earned a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS, which gives them the honor of being two of the safest SUVs on the road today. What’s the most affordable VW SUV? The Taos is the cheapest Volkswagen SUV to buy or lease, with a starting MSRP of just $26,500. Which VW SUV has the highest towing capacity? The Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport both have towing capacities of up to 5,000 pounds, which puts them in the lead in terms of trailering potential. Does the VW Tiguan still have three rows? No, the Tiguan no longer has a three-row cab as an option after its 2025 redesign. However, you can still readily find a pre-owned Tiguan with three rows. Shop VW SUVs near Overland Park Still not sure which SUV model is right for you? Visit Molle Volkswagen of Kansas City, where we have an unbeatable selection of new VW models ready for a test drive, plus new vehicle specials like VW lease deals and low APR financing for qualifying buyers. Contact us online or call us at 816-941-9500 to schedule and appointment today.