Overview & Reviews

Few small cars have the following of the Volkswagen Jetta, one of the company's best-selling models in the United States. The name, says VW, refers to the Atlantic jetstream, "combined with the luxury and power of a modern jetliner." We're not sure about comparing the cabin and performance of this compact sedan and wagon to a Lear jet, but for much of its history, the Jetta appealed to buyers with its upscale design, refined cabin and strong engine options. It essentially bridged the gap between everyday compact economy cars and entry-level premium brand compact sedans. It was a niche almost unto itself.

More recent times, however, have seen VW go mainstream with the Jetta, cutting its price to make it a more viable option for small car shoppers. One of the most notable downsides of the associated cost-cutting was cheaper cabin trim. So more modern versions are cheaper but less distinctive. That said, a new or used Jetta remains a solid pick for shoppers looking for a compact car with European flair, good performance and, in the case of the TDI-powered versions, impressive fuel efficiency.

Current Volkswagen Jetta
The Volkswagen Jetta is VW's most affordable sedan. There are five trim levels available: base, S, SE, SEL and TDI. The Jetta Hybrid and the performance-oriented Jetta GLI are both reviewed separately.

The base car is a stripper that must be special ordered and doesn't even come with air-conditioning. The S comes more reasonably equipped, with power/heated side mirrors, power door locks, air-conditioning and keyless entry. Both of these trims are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces a wheezy 115 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automatic is optional.

Stepping up to the SE and SEL trims gets you a more desirable 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 170 hp and 184 pound-feet of torque. The SE gets the same transmission choices as the lower trims, while the SEL is automatic-only. Besides the engine, these upper trims have access to more standard and optional features like heated front seats, Bluetooth and an iPod interface. The TDI, which is equipped similarly to the SE, features a 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder that is 50-state compliant and produces 140 hp and very impressive fuel economy. A six-speed manual or Volkswagen's DSG dual-clutch automated manual transmission are available.

In reviews, we've found the latest Jetta to be a fairly refined, roomy and comfortable compact sedan. The improvements made this year, such as the replacement of the humdrum five-cylinder engine with a perkier turbocharged four-cylinder and the fitment of an independent rear suspension for all trim levels, have boosted both overall performance and handling composure. As such, the current Jetta stands as one of the more appealing choices in this segment.

Used Volkswagen Jetta Models
The current, sixth-generation Jetta debuted for 2011. Compared to the previous generation, this Jetta is bigger and has a roomier backseat. But it also lacks the upscale interior of prior models.

The original engine lineup consisted of the base 2.0-liter inline-4 (115 hp and 125 lb-ft), a 2.5-liter inline-5 (170 hp and 177 lb-ft) and the turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel inline-4 (140 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque). The first two engines could be had with either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel offered a choice between a six-speed manual and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The following year saw only minor changes, while four-wheel disc brakes were made standard across the board for 2013. Potential buyers should note that these Jettas, though otherwise similar, lack the current Jetta's notable improvements. The latter include a more sophisticated fully independent rear suspension (previously exclusive to the Jetta GLI) for all trims as well as the substitution of the peppy yet more fuel-efficient turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine for the previous five-cylinder engine. These years also lack the availability of a rearview camera and VW Car-Net telematics.

The previous VW Jetta marked the fifth generation of Volkswagen's venerable four-door. It was introduced for 2005 (overlapping with the previous generation for one year) and ran through 2010. The sedan was the only available body style until the debut of the Sportwagen in 2009. Unlike the current car, the sedan and wagon were nearly identical save for the latter's extra cargo space.

Trim levels originally included the Value Edition, 2.5, TDI, 2.0T and GLI. The base engine was a 2.5-liter five-cylinder that initially made 150 hp, while the 2.0T and GLI featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produced 200 hp. This engine was available with Volkswagen's appealing DSG dual-clutch automated manual transmission.

The first diesel-powered fifth-generation TDI became the victim of new emissions regulations after 2006, but for those interested in getting excellent fuel economy, a used 2005-'06 Jetta TDI with its 1.9-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder (100 hp, 177 lb-ft of torque) should be a good pick. The TDI returned for 2009 with a new, cleaner-burning 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder that produced 140 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual was standard and DSG was optional.

For 2008, VW reorganized the trim levels to S, SE, Wolfsburg (featuring the 2.0T engine) and SEL trims. The base engine's output rose by 20 horses (to 170 hp) and the GLI became its own distinct model within the VW family. The following year VW added more standard equipment (including stability control) and introduced an improved navigation system. Notably, '09 was the only year you could get the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine in the Sportwagen; it came with the SEL trim level. For this Jetta's final year, VW improved the interior and created the sport-tuned TDI Cup "Street" Edition.

In reviews, we found this Volkswagen Jetta set itself apart from domestic and Japanese economy sedans by offering a distinctly European interior and driving experience. It was a bit more expensive, but its higher-quality cabin, generous features list and quality engineering made it seem worth the extra investment. This Jetta was also a bit bigger than before, offering generous legroom, a large trunk and a more compliant ride than before. The GLI was also quite fun to drive. If there was anything that held this Jetta back, it was its styling, which just didn't resonate with buyers like its hugely successful predecessor.

The fourth generation, sold in sedan form from 1999-2005 and as a wagon from 2001-'05, was the most popular Jetta yet, and arguably the best-looking. It received minor styling and interior updates for 2004. Front seat-mounted side airbags were standard throughout the run; full-length side curtain airbags were added for 2001. It was also an entertaining car to drive and had top-notch build and materials quality. Scant rear-seat legroom was its major shortcoming. Although reliability has been spotty, a fourth-gen Volkswagen Jetta is still a good buy on the used market if its service history checks out clean.

As the base 2.0-liter engine offered weak acceleration and mediocre fuel economy, we recommend getting a fourth-generation Jetta with the excellent turbocharged 1.8T four-cylinder. It was available on the sedan starting in 2000 and on the wagon starting in 2002. Horsepower on the 1.8T also went from 150 to 180 in '02, but both versions of this engine were enjoyable. For even more power (but worse fuel economy), the VR6 engine was available, first with 174 hp and later upgraded to 200 hp for '02. This engine was only available on the sport-tuned GLI model for 2004 and later. With its firmer suspension and sport-themed body modifications, the GLI could also be had with the 180-hp 1.8T engine.

The diesel-powered Jetta TDI was offered throughout this generation (2002-'05 on the wagon) 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.

Although not as upscale as its successors, the third-generation VW Jetta was also quite popular. It was on sale from 1993 to mid-1999, though a strike at the assembly plant significantly limited '93 sales. Dual front airbags were phased in during the '94 model year. Air-conditioning was standard on most Jettas of this era, and ABS was generally optional. None of the third-gen Volkswagen Jettas were quick, not even the GLX model, which had a 172-hp VR6 engine, but all exhibited responsive handling.

User Reviews:

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  nice for entry level german engineering - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By stephen d - November 4 - 10:00 am

  its fun. turbo lags sucks. i wasnt pleased with my car from the start. i got my car in May 2003, i wanted platinum gray with black leather interior. but no black in all of southern california, after getting my 4th choice, i had to get the plat. gray w/ gray velour. yuck! gray is a pain to keep clean. and velour smells after a while. i mean, for $23k, i would have rather paied $7 for a 325i. but hey, im happy with this car for now. ill get a new car next year.

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  NEVER AGAIN - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By NEVER AGAIN - November 2 - 11:26 pm

  I bought this car about 2 and a half years ago. Nothing but problems, after 3 months my water pump blew. I should have got rid of it then. My radio nobs have fallen off, my arm rest broke, the seat adjuster broke in half, the value drops about 75% after you drive it off the lot and its so uncomfortable . Last week I lost the only key the dealership gave me when I purchased the car. Most dealerships can cut you a new key off of the vin right then and there. Not Volkswagen in order to get a new key you have to drive to Layton (30 miles from my home) show them proof you own it then they will order you key and then you have to tow your car to the dealership. price of key 200.00! Ridiculous.

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  "BIG" Surprise - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Joe - November 2 - 9:06 am

  So I never intended to even look at a VW Jetta but was coaxed into trying it on for size. Im 63 & 300 lbs so you can imagine my skepticism. I sat down totally blown away. Tons of head room, leg room, comfortable seat, & still with all of the above to spare. Next thought? oh it wont be any fun or have any power. 200 HP out of an inline 4 cyl turbo. GREAT pickup & performance, gears changing so smoothly I cant even feel them change. Takes a corner like a pro on rails. Great MPG to boot, well as long as you dont put it in the sport mode & drive normal. All in all I couldnt have picked a better car for what I wanted. Safety, performance, good MPG, 4yr/50k warranty, comfort, & style.

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  What a TDI, think again - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Say no to TDI - November 1 - 3:20 pm

  I purchased a 2009 Jetta TDI in June of 2009. I put a lot of miles on cars & I have put 36875 miles on this one in less than a year. It has been in the shop 2X for engine problems. First time it wouldnt start or even try to start. Had it towed to the dealer, they said there was nothing wrong with it. Its in the shop now with 2 bad fuel injectors, a bad fuel pressure sensor and a clogged DPF. I told the dealer many times that it would run rough, but they said there was nothing wrong with it. Luckily I had bought the 60k mile extended warranty, it covers everything except the DPF, & it was not covered by the extended warranty or the Federal Emissions Warranty. Wish I never bought this car!

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  Reliable, Accurate handling, Economical! - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mobiliare - November 1 - 10:00 am

  This car is a great performer! I will never sell this car especially its my 1st car. I have put a ton of things (even a whole drumset in the trunk) and I have taken care of it really special: K&N filters, new imported brakes (not dealer brake) and its still running perfectly fine at 115000 miles. Its fast - I can beat anyone on highway and its slick looking. As long as you maintain it just right, its a very special car. GT is really rare - get one if you can!!

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  Dont Buy a Volkswagen - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Emiliy - October 31 - 7:16 pm

  I purchased my Volkswagen Jetta GLS in 2002 and have had to have the engine repaired for three major problems, as well as having it in the shop for numerous other recalls and malfunctions. At less than 50,000 miles the engine has blew up due to an "oil sludge" problem and VW will not pay for repair. Passat engines have been admitted to have this problem, but they will not admit it is an issue with Jettas. Consumers, despite what VW says, cannot control the sludge. Then once you have a problem, VW customer service is awful. Also note, they claim dealerships are independent contractors and will not cover problems in workmanship, etc.

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  Excellent value - 2017 Volkswagen Jetta
  By GM - October 31 - 6:16 pm

  Bought this Jetta SEL on an end of summer deal. Purchased it through Edmunds pricing request. The dealer honored the price and it was a steal! Care drives very good. The new engine and transmission combination is excellent. Sure, I could find fault with some aspects of this car, but overall I am very pleased with the driving experience. The SEL trim level is worth the extra price. Key-less operation, sunroof, nav. Fuel economy is very good at just over 30 mpg. Driver seat could be more comfortable. Brakes are excellent.

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  Cant get a better Drivers car for the money. - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By matthew32 - October 30 - 9:13 am

  Have owned this car for about three years. It had 94k mi when I bought it and now has 118k. Have done a lot of repairs, but not any more than for the multitude of 100+ k mi vehicles I have owned in the past. The car came with service records and is in excellent condition for the age and mileage. I have done brakes, alternator, clutch, suspension, front susp bushings and ball joints. Unexpected repairs were: Fan Control Module, PS Pressure hose, timing chain. The TC broke at 117K, causing damage to 5 valves and an injector. Cost of repairs were around $4500, but still worth it considering that I have a 12 yr old car with 118k mi that looks, runs and drives like a new car.

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  Poor Mans M3... - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By the car guru - October 29 - 11:46 pm

  I used to own a 99 M3...so I know what I am talking about when I say this new GLI from VW is "a poor mans M3"! What I mean is, a new BMW M3 retails for over $50,000. The GLI can be bought (well equipped) for around $25,000! This car performs as well as most would expect for the price. Its powerful 2.0T engine gets you going fast right off the line every time. The spectacular DSG transmission is state of the art. (why hasnt Porsche stolen it from VW yet...Ill never figure out?) When you want to haul four adults economically, but in style and with a sporty nature to your ride...consider a GLI. Its the best Jetta of the bunch by a long shot! And a great overall bargain sports sedan.

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  Nice Execution VW - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mlsadvis - October 29 - 10:00 am

  I traded a 97 BMW 540i 6-speed for this car and am very impressed. The BMW was fantastic, no question, but heavier and less tossable. Was looking for a smaller, more nimble car. Looked at the BMW 330i, Audi A4, Acura TL. 330i was $40K, the Audi $39K and the Acura a bargain at $33K. So...not enough bang for the buck with the BMW and Audi. Horrible torque steer with the Acura. For $24K I have a vehicle with great perfomance, ergonomics, space and visual appeal. Time will tell regarding reliablity and build quality. For VW enthusiasts, this Jetta is a 337 GTI. You will love it. Also, if interested, a new chip will make this a 225 hp, 250 lb/ft rocket.