Overview & Reviews

A completely redesigned Jetta sedan has arrived as a midyear replacement, but some versions of the previous version are still available. The GLI VR6 version of the old model was dropped from the lineup, while the GLI 1.8T added an automatic transmission to the options list.

Read our Volkswagen Jetta TDI Long-Term 20,000-Mile Test

• Powerful turbo engines, fuel-efficient TDI power plant, fun to drive, comfortable ride, rich interior materials, loads of standard safety features, excellent crash test scores, solid build quality. Cons

• Tight rear-seat legroom and weak base four-cylinder on old model, somewhat bland styling on new Jetta.

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 241.00

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  So Far So Good - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Si - September 6 - 8:43 am

  We bought one of the first New Jettas in 2005 after considering Toyota and Honda, but the interior of the Jetta was far superior. So far the only trouble weve had was a cooling fan that would not stop running and was replaced by the dealer under warranty. There was one surprise: the rear brake pads needed to be replaced at 18,000 miles while the front brake pads looked like new. Beware of the state troopers - the car really comes alive once you pass 80 mph!

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  minor changes - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By peter - July 20 - 11:10 pm

  Great car, only issues, car is not level, higher in rear. Driver seat feels like you are tilted forward (falling forward), not sitting level. Also front windshield is smaller than previous Jettas and window pillars are obstructing drivers view, saftey issues. Car has great mileage.

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  SWEEEEET!!!!! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Milojenkins - July 16 - 2:13 am

  I have had VWs for the last 8 years, and this one tops them all. We have had Golfs, GTIs, and most recently a 2004 Passat, but this Jetta is the best package I have ever seen in a car at 25K or less. You cant touch it in another make for the money.

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  Best New Car Ever! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Dan - May 8 - 11:36 am

  The price of gas drvoe me to trade in my 2003 4WD Toyota Tundra, which I really liked, on the new Jetta. After a lot of research, I decided that the Jetta was clearly the best value going. There are a few other cars out there with the new Jettas features, but they cost thousands more. But the real proof came with the buying and the driving. I have never been happier with any car than this one. Superb in every respect, inside and out. If it werent for the VW symbol on the steering wheel, you would think you were driving a car that you could never afford. Forget the high-priced alternatives like BMW or SAAB...theres no comparison. Now I look for reasons to have to drive somewhere!

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  The Way to Go TDI - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Doug - April 5 - 1:53 pm

  I bought the diesel because of the cost of gas and 45 mpg sounded good. I test-drove both the stick and the auto and to my surprise (lifetime stick driver) I liked the auto better. The auto clearly had better gearing and performed better. So far I am getting 40 mpg city and 50 highway and I think that is fantastic for an automatic. The trans has a sports mode that is very nice for an adrenalin rush. Don’t worry that the engine only has 100hp this car is just as quick as the gas version and does not get bogged down by weight like a gas car. Also diesel is sold in more places then you think. Plus when you are getting over 600 miles on a tank you can pass by many stations anyway.

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  Reminds me of my old GTI - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JDK Ents - March 1 - 2:20 am

  What a joy! After years of driving Tauruss (including a SHO), a Maxima, and an Altima, Id forgotten about driving fun. I had a first year GTI (1983) which I loved - it was quick, a good highway cruiser, but not too reliable. After that I moved into a series of borrriiiing cars and forgot about fun. That has changed! I have about 4k miles on a brand spankin new 2005 Jetta GLS TDI. This beast is amazingly quick. The engine with the 5 speed manual is exceptionally well matched to the size of the car. It is perfect for the cut and thrust type driving required for stop and go traffic. The low end torque is great and is available RIGHT NOW when you stomp on the gas (diesel?) pedal.

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  Love it more every day - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Memoryride - December 15 - 3:56 pm

  I have owned trucks my whole life. I have never driven a more tuned car then the Jetta. Wish I would have gotten the 6 speed but needed the automatic. It handles like a dream and has all the power you need. If you need more this engine can do it. Out of all the cars out there, Volkswagen has really set the bar. Make sure you look at all the little details. It will blow you away!!

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  New Jetta Rocks! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By NRH - December 3 - 10:33 am

  I love this car! Ive had my “New Jetta” for 3 months now, and I couldnt be more pleased with it. The handling is outstanding, and the interior wouldnt be out of place in a luxury car. I used to have a Ford Explorer, and was looking for a fun car to have; something nice but affordable. This is it. Anyone looking for a luxury car without the price; this car is for you. The build quality is amazing. Just feeling the texture of the materials, and the way the car handles and rides on rough roads is amazing.

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  Favorite Diesel - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Diesel Power - May 27 - 4:40 pm

  I chose the diesel option for it super mileage and I am not disappointed. My commute is 30 miles each way, 90% highway speeds and I average 48 mpg! On a trip to Florida I got in the low 50s driving 70 miles per hour. Front seat are comfortable but back seats are too small for large adults. The heat and cooling controls are too low and you have to take your eyes off the road to adjust them.

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  Luv the VW - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tallulah - May 11 - 3:50 am

  I love, love, love my new VW! I feel Llke I am driving an expensive car but, Im not. I went from a Ford to VW and I could not be happier. It is good on gas, its so cute, and has an awesome stereo system in it!