Overview & Reviews
Because of the massive popularity of compact SUVs, few automakers bother offering a compact wagon these days. But Volkswagen has one exception with its popular Jetta Sportwagen. Just like the Jetta sedan, the Sportwagen offers classy European design, an upscale cabin and a sophisticated ride quality. And being a wagon, this Volkswagen can carry plenty of stuff. With about 67 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, the Sportwagen is even roomier in that respect than some bulkier compact crossovers. Beyond all those perks, the Jetta Sportwagen also offers the availability of fuel-sipping diesel power, resulting in real-world fuel economy approaching 40 mpg.
Note that with the following generation of this car, Volkswagen technically retired the Jetta Sportwagen nameplate and replaced it with the new Golf Sportwagen. But the Jetta Sportwagen has long been one of our favorite cars through the years -- wagon or not -- and we certainly recommend it as a used-car choice.
Used Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen Models
The Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen was produced for the 2009-'14 model years and was commonly available in S, SE and TDI trim levels. The S and SE models were powered by a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder. A five-speed manual was standard with this engine, while a six-speed automatic was optional.
The Jetta TDI featured a 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine that produced 140 hp and a healthy 236 pound-feet of torque. A choice of a six-speed manual or VW's DSG dual-clutch automated manual were offered for the TDI. The Sportwagen TDI earned an impressive EPA estimated 34 mpg for combined driving, and in real-world driving often yielded even higher numbers. Unless you're completely adverse to diesel, we recommend getting this engine over the gasoline five-cylinder.
The Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen set itself apart from comparable domestic and Japanese wagons or crossovers by offering a distinctly European interior and feel to the driving experience. Not only did this Jetta provide better handling, but its cargo space was generally on par or better.
Note that for the Jetta Sportwagen's debut year of 2009, it was most closely related to that year's Jetta sedan. For 2010, the Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen received many of the same changes carried out that year to the Golf. The Sportwagen's body shape, interior volume and powertrains were essentially carried over, but VW improved the interior, retuned the suspension and made minor exterior styling changes.
For 2009 only, VW offered an SEL trim that featured a variety of luxury items like a fully powered driver seat with lumbar adjustment and memory functions, dual-zone automatic climate control and upgraded speakers. It also came with a 200-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder from the GTI and could be had with a manual transmission or the DSG. If you want the most sport from your Sportwagen, try to find one of these rare '09 SEL models.
The fourth-generation Volkswagen Jetta was available in a wagon body style from 2001-'05, though it wasn't known by the Sportwagen moniker. It was an entertaining car to drive and had top-notch materials quality and ample safety features. Scant rear-seat legroom was its major shortcoming.
As the base 2.0-liter engine offered weak acceleration and mediocre fuel economy, we recommend getting a fourth-generation Jetta with the turbocharged 1.8T four-cylinder introduced to the wagon for 2002 that produced 180 hp. The diesel-powered Jetta TDI was also offered in all but the first model year and provided mileage in the 40s. The 1.9-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder initially produced 90 hp and 155 lb-ft of torque and was upgraded to 100 hp and 177 lb-ft for 2004.
User Reviews:
Showing 21 through 30 of 89.00-
great car, not so great service - 2012 Volkswagen JETTA SPORTWAGEN
By kayakhow - March 14 - 4:12 amLove the car, I get mileage thats better than advertised. I had a hitch installed with enthusiastic encouragement from the dealer , thats when the fun began. I had a brake light issue, and although I was told the wire harness was properly installed they did not honor the warranty and hosed me good for the repair which was a labor only repair. So avoid installing any after market equipment on the car, especially where towing is involved. If your car is out of warranty, go for it, there are techs out there who work cheaper than the VW shop. Basically, the service experience soured me a bit, thery treated me better at the Chevy dealer when I had the truck.
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5,000 miles, so far so good - 2011 Volkswagen JETTA SPORTWAGEN
By cadrm123 - March 8 - 9:39 amI bought this car this summer and so far have quite enjoyed it. It accelerates and drives well for a more family friendly car than my Audi convertible. The seat is comfortable, and I am getting between 30-31 mpg on the car. I have found that cabin space ample for my trips around town.
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An excellent all round car - 2011 Volkswagen JETTA SPORTWAGEN
By nij - November 29 - 2:02 pmIve had the car for 3 years now. Used it for pretty much everything -> Haul cargo ( 500+ miles ), furniture from ikea. With the rear seats folded, i was able to completely assembled computer table in it. Although i wish the car was a little wider. Commuter car -> I use it to commute 30+ miles daily and it is a quiet and smooth ride. the standard seat heaters help in winter. The car was covered under the factory free maintenance until now, so i havent had to spend any extra money on it. The car averages 28-32 mpg ( city - highway ) for me. The highway ride is smooth and comfortable. I havent spent any money on repairs so far and have 45K+ miles on it.
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Forget the sedan, try this first - 2011 Volkswagen JETTA SPORTWAGEN
By emajor - October 11 - 8:22 pmThis wagon is versatile and refined. Weve carried furniture, huge Rubbermaids, not possible with a sedan. Tons of cargo room when you need it, drives just like the sedan when you dont. Handling is responsive, the steering has a nice feel and heft to it, and the ride is comfortable without being too soft or sloppy. Supportive seats, perfect driving position. Interior is way too nice for a $20K car. Strong 5 cylinder engine with lots of torque down low. Gets 29-34 mpg highway. Nice clutch and shifter. Test drove the TDI, nice engine, but didnt feel it was worth the additional $5000. 13,000 miles and no problems yet. As long as it stays reliable, I will have no regrets.
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Love - 2012 Volkswagen JETTA SPORTWAGEN
By taekwond00m - August 15 - 9:53 amFirst time VW owner and wondering why I waited so long. Previously dubbed as a "subaru girl" now converted after driving this fabulous ride! Its tight handling and peppy engine are amazing. Love the front wheel drive in this northern Minn climate. Great front, side and rear visibility -- especially with the back seats down. Amazingly smooth and quiet ride for a small car. Ive owned 3 Subarus, 1 Jeep, and a Honda Civic. This SportWagen is by far my absolute favorite. Love it love it love it. p.s. I am a 54" female. Only drawback is the head rest on front seat -- because Im short, makes me kinda hunch forward. Removed for now while thinking of an alternative. Great financing.
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Awesome for the money - 2011 Volkswagen JETTA SPORTWAGEN
By jc_ - July 22 - 4:24 pmThe MPG is truly spectacular, and the car has the solid ride and handling youd expect from a VW. If it wasnt for the TDI motor, I probably wouldnt think twice about purchasing a sport wagon like this. I love the interior, and the amenities are superior in this price range. Plenty of cargo room for such a "smallish" ride.
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Awesome Car! - 2012 Volkswagen JETTA SPORTWAGEN
By rod_r - June 20 - 2:54 pmI have only had this car a week but so far it really has exceeded my expectations. It took a few weeks before one of my local dealers had a manual model but the wait was worth it. I drove one with a DSG transmission and it was fine but with the manual it is just a more engaging car to drive. The torque from this little turbo diesel is amazing. It pulled up a big hill in 4th gear at 1500rpm at 40mph with no problem. Great interior with lots of room. I am getting right at 40mpg with mixed driving. The car is not fast but it feels quick with great handling. It really is a "SPORT"wagen. This car feels like it could cost a lot more than $25,000.
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Full pump issue - 2011 Volkswagen JETTA SPORTWAGEN
By kidtaxi1 - May 20 - 5:47 pmI have 66,220 miles on my car and the fuel pump went out. The vehicle started loosing power and when we came to a stop it died and wouldnt start again. The warranty runs out at 30k and if they would have worked with me it was going to cost $2100. The dealership told me that pieces of metal were seen and would need to do a full system flush also.
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A lot for the money - 2011 Volkswagen JETTA SPORTWAGEN
By alshi - May 17 - 3:58 amDrives well. Seats are very comfortable in front and back. Lots of headroom (a 6 footer will have several inches of headroom in the front seats). Good visibility. Lots of features for the price.
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Great family car - 2011 Volkswagen JETTA SPORTWAGEN
By heather_07hch - April 1 - 11:45 pmI purchased my Sportwagen 2 weeks ago, and love it. We replaced a 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid, after a new hybrid battery, and seeing what happens when the hybrid system fails. The car did not feel safe anymore. Averaging about 38 mpg in the hybrid, I wanted a larger car, but did not want to sacrifice fuel economy. I am 510", husband is 6, and kids are ages 5 and 7. We were a bit cramped. When packing up for a day at the lake, or a road trip, we could hardly fit our belongings in the car. So, the Sportwagen has solved all of these issues. Fuel economy is fantastic, there is more than enough room, and the car just looks, feels, and handles like a dream. Very pleased!
