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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  Fun, Fast, Watch out for the police! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JPnSEA - September 30 - 8:20 pm

  This new Jetta GLI is fun. I always find myself traveling at 80 mph though, so be careful if you already have tickets. It has a smooth ride, with just enough power to keep me interested. I will not be winning any drag races, but with only 200hp I did not expect too, it does have some surprising get up and go though for sure. I have the manual transmission. I get comments on how the car looks all the time, I tinted the windows and picked the metallic black exterior with black leather interior and with the red highlights on the grill and brakes. It looks really nice...if I do say so myself. Overall there is very little to complain about...it does pull just a little when you are going all out but it is manageable.

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  Lemon - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By honestengine86 - September 29 - 3:22 pm

  I purchased the vehicle new in nov/2010. "Sportline 2.5l" with every possible option. To this date it has been seen 16 times for warranty work. Totalling well over $3,800 (not including recalls) .. I’m terrified to own this car outside of a warranty. Cheap materials all throughout. enough said.

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  2 for 1 - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Bucksrule - September 26 - 2:00 pm

  I have been driving GM products for the past 15 years and I was dragging my feet when my wife took me to Betten Imports! My lease was up on my GM car and guess what? GM is out of that business. We drove the Jetta SE, and were delighted by all the standard features. We were especially delighted with the ESP and the way it handled in snow. Very important in Michigan. When we got to the lease payment, I quickly realized that for $50 more per month than I was paying for my GM car we could lease 2 Jettas. So we did! My wifes is a Salsa Red and mine is a Reflective Silver. We love the wonders of German engineering. The sound system is awesome! We love the mp3 connectivity. The heated seats rock!

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  Jetta Wagon 04 1.8T Manual - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Dina Nishioka - September 25 - 11:30 am

  I love my car and how it performs. Great handling, great mileage, convenient features (rear mirror defrost, seat warmers, seat adjustments). However, little electronics concern me. Power windows, slow rear window defrost, etc. Overall, I am happy with my purchase. Should be a great car to have for ten years.

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  Good car but has its draw backs. - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By edhkmco84 - September 25 - 10:00 am

  I hate the MONSOON radio that crapped out on me after 103 miles. Yeah, thats right 2 days after I got the car I was back at the dealer. Other then that no problems yet...still in "break in period" so not too sure on power yet..but thing that I wish I got the 1.8T just for the triptonic thingy and the extra horsepower (trying to accelerate to highway speeds on the Parkway is a problem). ***DEFINATLY test drive the 1.8T and the 2.0L BEFORE YOU SIGN!!*** AND I must commend their marketing department...with out them I dont think I would have ever thought about a VW. (And I believe it is that way with the majority of "new" VW owners).

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  Mid-sized Luxury w/great economy - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Trisha - September 24 - 3:56 pm

  Cant say enough about my Jetta TDI, Ive owned 2 diesel beetles, but the new Jetta (2006) is a real champion and I still get about the same mpg that I did with the beetle (45-50 mpg) Not to mention pure comfort especially on long hauls. Great car, solidly built and the auto tiptronic tranny gets better mpg than manual shift. Only downside: running the ac cuts fuel economy approx 6 mpg.

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  Great value, flat out great performance. - 2017 Volkswagen Jetta
  By RM1 - September 23 - 11:00 am

  I bought this to replace an older Volvo sedan. I bought it in Feb 2017, it is now October. My Jetta routinely knocks down 42+ MPG on the highway. The 1.4 TSI engine is what makes this car so good. Fantastic power from the small displacement (85 CID) and excellent low end torque, no need to wind it out to get the power. I have to 6 speed auto transmission, it is geared very well to this engine. Turbo lag is almost invisible and the shift logic works very well. Light years ahead of the older turbo cars. The MIB-II infotainment system is by far the best Ive played with, very ergonomic and straightforward to operate. It works with Android Auto quite well. No need to get sat nav, as Google Maps is better and comes up on the radio screen. I have not had any repair work done as it hasnt needed any. I imagine with proper care, it will last a long time. Service points are clearly marked under the hood and maintenance is easy to do. This engine does have a timing belt, which is good as there are no chains or plastic guides to wear out and replace. The service interval is 120K IIRC. My biggest gripe is the road noise, I think this is a fault of the Bridgestone tires that came on the car. There is a good deal of wind buffeting with the back windows down at 30+ MPH speeds. Overall, its a great value to the money and just a hoot to drive. The electric power steering is calibrated fairly well, although I wish there were an option to adjust the power assist down, it can get a bit twitchy on the highway. The SEL model has a few more features that I would want, but not the 1.4 litre engine and that is the main reason I like this car. It would be nice to have adaptive cruise, auto mirror dimming and fog lamps on the SE model.

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  jetta - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By CACYE - September 22 - 10:00 am

  this is by far the best car it is comfotable, stylish, great on gas, very reliable

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  Fun to Drive Car with low Gas Mileage!! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By maruxue - September 22 - 10:00 am

  I love my TDI. We consistently get great gas mileage, plus the car has so much power its like a little sports car.

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  Not very reliable - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Brenda TC - September 22 - 10:00 am

  I had many problems with my car, i.e. electrical problems as well as problems with the windows and the catalytic converter. It was very disappointing.