On September 5, the Jetta VS8 was officially launched, offering three variants priced between RMB 89,000 and RMB 104,000. The VS8 is positioned as a mid-size SUV and marks the fifth mass-production model since Jetta became an independent brand. Built on Volkswagen’s MQB EVO platform, the new model features a refreshed exterior and interior design, powered by a 1.4T engine paired with an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission.
Exterior: The VS8 adopts a frameless grille extending laterally with a three-dimensional design, similar in style to the Jetta VS7, emphasizing sportiness. A light strip integrates with sharp-looking headlights. The front bumper has a robust design with air intakes on both sides, black trim, and a silver lower lip. Four exterior color options are available: Manganese Black, Polar White, Galaxy Gray, and Obsidian Green.
Dimensions: The SUV measures 4,629 mm in length, 1,851 mm in width, and 1,624 mm in height, with a 2,731 mm wheelbase—slightly larger than the current VS7. The side profile features a floating roof effect via a hidden D-pillar design, unpainted cladding around the wheel arches and lower doors, and roof rails. At the rear, new tail lamps echo the Y-shaped front headlights with dynamic lighting, while a heavy rear bumper and hidden exhaust complete the look.
Interior: The cabin comes in black-red or black-gray color schemes, adopting a minimalist design. Highlights include wraparound ambient lighting, a large floating central screen without physical buttons, Volkswagen’s familiar three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, a column-mounted gear shifter, a digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charging, and hidden cup holders.
Powertrain: The VS8 uses a DLE-coded 1.4T engine delivering 110 kW and 250 Nm, paired with an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission. Built on the MQB EVO platform, it features front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent suspension as standard.
Background: Jetta became an independent brand in February 2019 to strengthen its position in the entry-level market. In its first full sales year, it achieved 155,000 units, peaking at 162,000 units in 2023. However, amid intensifying competition, Jetta’s sales from January to July 2025 totaled 64,238 units, with VS5 (31,976 units) and VA3 (19,459 units) as main contributors.
In March 2025, FAW-Volkswagen’s German and Chinese shareholders signed a “Jetta Business Development Memorandum,” outlining the brand’s independent development path. Just before the 2025 Chengdu Auto Show, Volkswagen Group China, FAW Group, and the Chengdu Economic & Technological Development Zone signed a “Jetta Development Cooperation Agreement,” confirming the establishment of a new Jetta brand company in Q4 2025.
According to the plan, Jetta will continue as a sub-brand under Volkswagen, maintaining maximum synergy with Volkswagen Group and FAW-Volkswagen. By 2028, Jetta will launch four entry-level new energy models equipped with competitive electrification, digitalization, and ADAS features. FAW-Volkswagen also confirmed that Jetta will begin exports to the Middle East, Africa, and South America later this year.
