2019 VW Jetta S vs. 2018 Chevy Malibu LS - which new car for 15k or less?

probegtguy

Looking for a new sedan at a deep deep discount. Either the 2019 VW Jetta S (1.4TSI w/ 6sp manual) or the Chevy Malibu LS (1.5T w/ 6sp Auto) can be had for about $15K +tax/title brand new if you're willing to fly to Virginia (which I am).

Today I drove both cars here in Texas. My expectations were pretty low but both cars surprised me in a good way.

2019 VW Jetta S (1.4TSI w/ 6sp manual):
+ The 6sp manual gearbox feels great, I love to shift my own gears
+ Balanced ride and handling
+ Strong sheet metal
+ 6 year warranty!
- Engine power (especially at higher speeds it seems anemic)
- Poor sound quality of 4-speaker stereo
- No spare wheel
- Smaller rear seats (inadequate for 3 adults in the rear)
- Weak A/C

2018 Chevy Malibu LS (1.5T w/ 6sp Auto)
+ Quickest-shifting Auto transmission I ever drove (not including Porsche PDK)
+ Surprisingly powerful and responsive 1.5L turbo engine at any speed
+ Large interior
+ Decent sound quality of 6-speaker stereo system
+ Includes spare wheel in standard equipment
- Thin sheet metal (I was able to bend the front fender from under the hood with 2 fingers)
- Warranty only 3 years

I cannot decide which car I like more. The Malibu certainly feels more mature, substantial, luxurious and better equipped but perhaps not as well made. The Jetta feels more nimble, fun to drive with the manual gearbox but seems less powerful. A big point in the Jetta's favor is the 6 year warranty. Decisions, decisions...

Please HELP ME DECIDE!

kyfdx

Why would you have to go all the way to VA for a good deal?

probegtguy

kyfdx said:

Why would you have to go all the way to VA for a good deal?

I can't seem to be able to persuade any local dealer in TX to come anywhere close to VA prices. The difference is about $3K for the Malibu and $1,500 for the Jetta.

kyfdx

probegtguy said:

kyfdx said:

Why would you have to go all the way to VA for a good deal?

I can't seem to be able to persuade any local dealer in TX to come anywhere close to VA prices. The difference is about $3K for the Malibu and $1,500 for the Jetta.


I don't know the level of communication you've had with VA dealers, but when you see a price that is $3000 off, then there is something they aren't disclosing.

Oh, that doesn't include the destination fee..

Oh, that price doesn't include our $599 dealer fee..

Oh, at that price, you are required to take the $999 buff and wax package..