While the name Jetta is associated with a conservative sedan globally, in China it is already a separate brand created for young and budget-conscious buyers. Ahead of the Beijing Auto Show, the Volkswagen Group unveiled the future of this brand by introducing the Jetta X concept.
The current story of the Jetta brand is Volkswagen's attempt to stay afloat at a time when internal combustion engines are rapidly losing popularity in China. The X concept demonstrates a transition to so-called new energy vehicles (NEV), which include both pure electric cars and hybrids.
Square design and minimalism
The appearance of the Jetta X is far from the aerodynamic "drops" we are used to seeing among modern electric crossovers. The car has a boxy shape, emphasized fenders, and trapezoidal wheel arches with black plastic protection. Narrow LED optics at the front and rear add a modern look, while red tow hooks hint at a certain "off-road" capability, although technical specifications have not been disclosed yet.
Jetta X Concept
Although Volkswagen did not provide detailed figures on battery capacity or range, it is known that the Jetta X is based on a purely electric platform. This is important as the brand plans to release five new models by 2028, four of which will be electrified.
Ambitious plans amidst decline
The situation for the German group in China currently looks alarming. The FAW-Volkswagen joint venture has been recording declining sales for the ninth consecutive month. In March, VW vehicle sales fell by 22.1% compared to last year, totaling 125,433 units. The Jetta brand itself dropped by 10%, selling only 9,001 vehicles.
Retail sales dynamics of Volkswagen in China. Photo: China EV DataTracker
To remedy the situation, Volkswagen is betting on local development and aggressive pricing. The benchmark for future production models based on the Jetta X is the price category of around 100,000 yuan, equivalent to $14,700. This is a direct challenge to Chinese manufacturers who currently dominate the affordable electric car segment. The first production model of the new lineup is expected to go on sale by the end of this year. The brand's medium-term goal is to sell between 400,000 and 500,000 vehicles annually.
