Overview & Reviews

More than just a standard small sedan, the Volkswagen Jetta has been a refined option for the compact-car buyer for years. It is available with a variety of engines, including turbocharged gasoline, turbocharged diesel and, more recently, even a gasoline/electric hybrid. Volkswagens typically have nice interiors, reserved styling and good driving dynamics, and this hybrid compact does its family heritage proud.

The Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid doesn't drive much like a hybrid, and that's one of the reasons you might like it. It has a transmission that feels crisp and a suspension that makes it feel secure when driving around corners. While there are other hybrids and different versions of the Jetta (including the excellent diesel model) that you might also consider, we think the Jetta Hybrid is worth a look.

Current Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
The Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid is a compact sedan that's available in Base, SE, SEL and SEL Premium trim levels. It's powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 20kW electric motor. Together they produce 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed automatic transmission (with manual control capability) and front-wheel drive are standard. Not only can you expect combined fuel economy to be in the mid-40's, but its acceleration is notably quick for the segment.

The base Jetta Hybrid comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, leatherette (premium vinyl) upholstery, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and a six-speaker sound system. The SE adds LED taillights, keyless ignition and entry, VW's Car-Net telematics system and an upgraded sound system with a touchscreen interface. The SEL adds a sunroof, heated front seats, a six-way power driver seat, a rearview camera and a navigation system. The SEL Premium tops the range with adaptive bi-xenon headlights, foglights and an eight-speaker Fender sound system.

In the cabin, rear passengers will find plenty of room compared to a traditionally powered compact car, but less than in similarly priced hybrid family sedans. The styling is clean, the gauges are straightforward and the various controls are simple and easy to use. The interior panels are mostly hard plastic and feel a bit cheap compared to top rivals. We like the touchscreen stereo interface and its redundant dial knob, but the navigation screen is small and doesn't display much information.

On the road, we've found the Jetta Hybrid's power delivery to be smooth and quiet, with quick shifts and sprightly acceleration. This is a pleasant change from the droning dramatics characteristic of some rival hybrids. The Jetta Hybrid feels balanced in corners, has responsive brakes and shows more athleticism than expected for a hybrid car.

Used Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid Models
The current, first generation Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid debuted for the 2013 model year. Other than lacking the availability of VW's Car-Net telematics system, this Jetta Hybrid is identical to the current version.

Shoppers interested in used Volkswagen Jettas may also want to look at the standard Jetta and its optional diesel engine.

User Reviews:

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  So far, so good - 2014 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
  By Mel Benva - February 21 - 4:27 pm

  Bought a 2014 in 2017 with under 37k miles, 2 year/ 24k VW extended warranty. Original list NEW was more than double what I paid 3 years later. Am happy with the car, so far. Am getting used to it as I had an 04 Envoy - truck based with no technology. Enjoying the turbo and the fast response. Great handling. Loving the electric motor in heavy traffic with my average mpgs 41.88. Could possibly get higher, if I didnt find myself going much faster than I should be. I expect to own the car another 150k miles, and hope to enjoy it for many years.

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  A Snappy little Hybrid... not an oxymoron. - 2014 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
  By Jim Miller - April 17 - 8:51 pm

  I did not know what I would get to replace my daughters TDI after the buy back, she loves the growl of her little diesel. This hybrid comes close or maybe even does the diesel one better. We are looking forward to putting this car through its paces.

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  Great hybrid - 2014 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
  By Linn Ardner - August 23 - 7:42 pm

  Sharp car....two tone seat..great wheels...sports car handling👏👏👏

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  Jetta Hybrid Works For Me - 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
  By jpa010 - November 26 - 11:45 pm

  Despite the elevated cost of the SEL Premium version, I needed a commuter car with excellent mpg specs, and being a VW fan, was drawn to the Jetta Hybrid. Previously Id owned a 2011 GTi, but didnt care for the 28mpg part of ownership (but a blast to drive, for sure). Having driven several Prius vehicles, I learned to dislike the golf-cart like CVT, so the 7 speed DSG of the Jetta Hybrid was a huge plus. I love this car so far, and 46 mpg is my mileage after two tanks of (premium) fuel. Build quality seems a notch above a base Jetta. The Fender audio is as good as anything a manufacturer has ever put into a car, IMHO. Thank you VW for an alternative to TDI!

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  Exceeding expectations - 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
  By drm14 - August 8 - 12:59 am

  As a current TDI owner Ive enjoyed great performance and economy. I was skeptical of the hybrid, but I have been surprised to be getting better than EPA estimates for mpg, usually mid 40s to low 50s. The car does not need to be driven slow, but you need to maximize the time the car is driving under battery power or sailing. The power meter helps a lot with this. Aggressive driving will lower mpg considerably. The road feel is great and the DSG is very smooth. The 1.4L TSI is very torquey and the car feels quick. I have the SEL which is nicely equipped. I think the hybrids compliment the TDIs nicely. The hybrid is ideal for those driving around town and on crowded highways.

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  Perfect...Except "Wheres the 48MPG"...??? - 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
  By kksdad - June 7 - 11:52 pm

  Our Jetta Hybrid will be a year old next month, my wifes the primary driver and she loves it, but, I LOVE it more, and enjoy driving it so much whenever she "lets me"...!!! dont be fooled by the fact this is a "hybrid", VW has "done it right" with great handling, performance and fuel economy (that cold be BETTER..more details below...) for a car that we are happy to own and have NO regrets in buying. Our 16 yo daughter "cant wait" to get her hands on it when she starts to drive..."in her dreams"....!!!