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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  Not Sure - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By redadunes - August 8 - 10:09 am

  I just got the SE with convenience this Saturday. I have been shopping for a new car for 4 months and I test drove about 12 different models out there, I think the Jetta was best for the price. I am not sure about the reliability and resale value though, I hear horror stories about electrical problems and overall reliability. It was better than the Hondas, Kia, Ford, and hyundais for sure. The car looks nice, I dont understand the people making comments that the design is horrible? It drives well and its well equipment for the money. I am having mixed feelings right now.

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  146,000+ Miles, Lots of Fun, but Headaches Too - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By pjkportland - August 7 - 9:30 am

  I have owned my 2003 1.8T 5A GLS wagon since new and now have over 146k miles. It really is fun to drive and has amazing cargo hauling space. But . . . expensive to maintain and gets only about 21 mpg on premium. Make sure you have a good mechanic. Mine is one of the best, and I still have a funky/random issue - a beep, blinking dash lights, then a power drop, as if the tranny disconnected with the engine. As much as I like driving the car, I think Im going back to Honda when old blue bites the dust.

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  I wouldnt trade my Jetta for the World - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By chknpotpie82 - August 6 - 11:13 am

  My Jetta is the most reliable car I have owned.

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  Never owned german car - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Walter Mitty - August 6 - 7:50 am

  I bought my first German car and did not know what to expect. I am very surprised. The handling is outstanding, the color which is new is beautiful. The car is solid and handles like a dream. It has the no maintenance for 3 years which will save me money. If you cant afford a BMW this is a good choice.

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  Love the car, but it has some flaws.... - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By WolfsburgGuy - August 5 - 2:53 pm

  After three years with my 2000 1.8T Jetta, I eagerly climbed into my 2003 Reflex Silver Wolfsburg Edition Jetta with 16" BBS wheels. The car is TIGHT, instantly responsive and predictable, therefore safe in the way it handles. ESP has gotten me out of many tough situations on wet Florida roads. The ABS brakes work perfectly, maintaining driver control of the car. This edition of Jetta seems to have more turbo lag than my 2000. Still it is very quick off the line, gobbling premium fuel, and glides down the highway like its on rails at expressway speeds! It has a very precise road feel and is fun to drive!

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  Ups and DOWNS!! :( - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Lura - August 5 - 9:17 am

  Do your research before buying! Its a good car in many ways!,, But everytime I think all is well, something else goes wrong with it!! Now, it wont shift into overdrive!! This is my work car, cant keep having it in the shop! Going broke fixing it. Any ideas out there on the overdrive issue??? Thx!

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  Save yourself! - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By EPureza - August 4 - 10:00 am

  This car sucks! Definitely not worth the money youll spend. Power window regulators break regularly, all four of them for $350 a pop. Power locks and alarm will malfunction, beware possibly VW services ploy so youll dump more money into it. Why even put heated seats, it only lasted less than 3 years and cost $600 to fix. Dont be fooled by its look! Save yourself!

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  Great Car - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By tengage - August 4 - 10:00 am

  I have had two Jettas, a 97 and this 99. These cars are built for drivers. I have had no major problems with my 99. I had one window fall off the track, a mass air flow sensor (replaced via recall), and had to have the coolant tank resovoir replaced. All were covered under my extended warrenty. In total, Ive spent about $180 on repairs in the 5 years Ive owned it. It burns more oil than other cars Ive owned, about a half a quart every 3000 miles, but I drive hard and my old Jetta was the same. One complaint is that the front bumper is shaped like a hook and will latch on to a curb and not let go.

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  RUN AWAY!!! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By deandeandean - August 4 - 10:00 am

  This was one of the best cars Id ever bought, until the ENGINE SEIZED UP flying down the interstate @ 80+. It seems the dealership FORGOT to put the drain plug back in after an oil change. After THREE WEEKS in a rental GEO Metro, the dealership returns the jetta to me with a "new" engine that BLEW UP less than a month later. Mind you, the car had just under 19,000 miles! I took the car to another VW dealer (you have to so the warranty pays) and they replaced the engine AGAIN! At 23,368 miles, this "new" one DIED. Dead. No note, no clues, just graveyard dead. When the dealership picked up the car, I gave them the keys, too.

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  Buy the extended warranty. - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ferstcs - August 4 - 10:00 am

  If the quality was better, then the Jetta would be an excellent vehicle. Always buy the extended warranty if you plan to own this car longer than the standard warranty.