The Jetta Hybrid is a wolf in sheep’s clothing. It’s a hybrid, but it just doesn’t fit the usual hybrid mode. A hybrid car typically doesn’t behave like a sports car. But during a one-week test drive of the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid, the sedan revealed nimble handling and quick acceleration as well as very responsive steering. But unless the wolf was summoned, the Jetta Hybrid maintained a low-key demeanor. The sedan is offered in three trims: SE, SEL, and SEL Premium. As an all- new entry in 2013, the Jetta Hybrid is essentially unchanged in the 2014 model year.

Powering the Jetta Hybrid is a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine (releasing 150 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 184 pounds-feet of torque at 1600 rpm) and a 27 horsepower, water-cooled electric motor. The combination engine/electric motor equates to 170 horsepower at 5000 rpm. Standard fare on the base (SE) trim includes Bluetooth cell phone connectivity, push button start, LED taillights, and power/heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators. Front wheel drive Jetta Hybrid’s powerplant is matched with a 7-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission that can be shifted manually. Jetta Hybrid SE collects estimated mpg of 42 city and 48 highway and carries a MSRP of $27,260.