This cheeky commercial features a powerful V8 engine in the compact sports sedan.
Is Volkswagen on to save the manuals? Although we can’t speak on behalf of the automaker, a recent advertisement for the Jetta highlights the manny tranny that the gearbox is not only for people who like to be more involved behind the wheel but also serves as an anti-theft device. Seriously? It’s true. And it’s connected with a powerful V8 instead the turbocharged four-cylinder 2.0-liter you’d find in any other GLI. You can watch and listen to the video below, and you’ll be surprised at how much V8 is being heard.
Manual Mania:
VW’s clever commercial, despite the ridiculously fake engine sound, isn’t it? Fewer vehicles offer a clutch-operated manual transmission, so fewer people are able to operate one. This includes young misguided car thieves who are often disguised as car boosters. We’ve all seen stories about them being stopped by the three-pedal anti theft system. This is why the driver in the video doesn’t lock his car. But thieves will still try and steal your ride in real life. VW probably added similar fine print to the clip’s end.
Although it is not a new offense to use fake engine sounds in commercials, this is a very silly offense. Perhaps that was the point. However, the VeeDub 2.0-liter engine is already a powerful and impressive machine. Why not provide a similar aural experience? We are being selective, but it’s our job. We hate it when automakers attempt to make an obvious sound like an engine sound.