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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  I leased it based only on price, then fell in love - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Lars Bogard - July 17 - 6:45 am

  I leased this because it was the absolutely cheapest lease I could work out on any car that wasnt bottom-barrel. I never thought Id buy or lease a VW. Amazing economy. Gets 500miles on a 12-gal fill-up. At 75mph avg, it gets 41mpg, at 55-65mph its 45mpg. Combined with 25/75 city/hwy is around 38 mpg. Acceleration is like a big rubber slingshot - amazing for a 1.4. Feels much faster than any other 4cyl and most 6cyl Ive driven. Transmission is fantastic - manual downshift reminds me of my brothers BMW 135 - shift from 5th-4th gear at 70mph and all you notice is the tach jumps and the note changes, but no lurch or discernible transmission shift friction. Can take 25-mph curves at twice the speed with NO drama, as if its yawning and laughing at the guy that made the speed-sign. Sport mode actually makes a difference, but it is mostly unneeded unless you intentionally want to drive like a moron - or have fun up the interstate entrance ramp. Transmission disengages at stop-light to save gas but doesnt stop engine (smart). You can feel it gently and immediately re-engage the instant you let go of the brake causing no take-off delay. I added the Helix sub-woofer/amp (about $900 installed) and it has completely changed the character of the entertainment system. iPhone integration is fantastic, especially map integration. Speakerphone is so good that I hold hour-long conference calls in my car and nobody knows Im in a car. The longer I have this car, the more I realize all the things it does correctly, and all the things the other guys, including Toyota and Honda havent figured out yet. Cruise control, gas gauge, speedometer, odometer, and MPG calculations in the trip computer are actually accurate - especially not over-stating the MPG like just about every other trip computer Ive used (and Ive rented a LOT of cars). If the car does not have any major issues by the time my 3-yr lease is up, I may actually buy it out.

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  I leased it based only on price, then fell in love - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Lars Bogard - July 17 - 6:45 am

  I leased this because it was the absolutely cheapest lease I could work out on any car that wasnt bottom-barrel. I never thought Id buy or lease a VW. Amazing economy. Gets 500miles on a 12-gal fill-up. At 75mph avg, it gets 41mpg, at 55-65mph its 45mpg. Combined with 25/75 city/hwy is around 38 mpg. Acceleration is like a big rubber slingshot - amazing for a 1.4. Feels much faster than any other 4cyl and most 6cyl Ive driven. Transmission is fantastic - manual downshift reminds me of my brothers BMW 135 - shift from 5th-4th gear at 70mph and all you notice is the tach jumps and the note changes, but no lurch or discernible transmission shift friction. Can take 25-mph curves at twice the speed with NO drama, as if its yawning and laughing at the guy that made the speed-sign. Sport mode actually makes a difference, but it is mostly unneeded unless you intentionally want to drive like a moron - or have fun up the interstate entrance ramp. Transmission disengages at stop-light to save gas but doesnt stop engine (smart). You can feel it gently and immediately re-engage the instant you let go of the brake causing no take-off delay. I added the Helix sub-woofer/amp (about $900 installed) and it has completely changed the character of the entertainment system. iPhone integration is fantastic, especially map integration. Speakerphone is so good that I hold hour-long conference calls in my car and nobody knows Im in a car. The longer I have this car, the more I realize all the things it does correctly, and all the things the other guys, including Toyota and Honda havent figured out yet. Cruise control, gas gauge, speedometer, odometer, and MPG calculations in the trip computer are actually accurate - especially not over-stating the MPG like just about every other trip computer Ive used (and Ive rented a LOT of cars). If the car does not have any major issues by the time my 3-yr lease is up, I may actually buy it out.

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  smart/creative enginerin-deficient qual. - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By dont buy; get Civic - July 16 - 10:00 am

  bought this car a year ago with radio/speakers stolen. shortly after,exhaust broke loose and paid $450 for new dual-muffler system (excluding catalytic converter, fixed everything from there back. touchy trunk opener latch but fixed. fixed front/rear alignment 1 month ago; needs rear again;no big bumps.brakes glazed over.check engine lit;sensor near fuel tank dealing with economy.replaced pwr steering reservoir & 2 hoses costing an excessive $520.transmission giving out? (jerk during accel).gas not bad, but could be better.gets 29hwy but Civic more power and runs 38hwy

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  Best Car Ever! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By DallasandTony - July 16 - 10:00 am

  The car averages me 48 mpg and I have an automatic. I get 500+ miles on a take of gas. The car has more get up and go then I thought it would, and can pass without any probs. Makes me upset that all roads arnt winding roads. The vehicle also makes you feel safe with all the airbags it has. I have never liked a car this much. I recommend to anyone.

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  2004 GLS 1.8T is a fun car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Taeler - July 14 - 4:36 pm

  Overall the 2004 Jetta is a great car. So much fun to drive, fast and responsive. Sun roof is great, 8 speakers in the Monsoon sound system make music sound good.

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  Miss my VW...... - 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mardigras413 - July 13 - 10:37 pm

  ok so I am a big VW fan, its been about 3 years since I had my last VW and this was worth the wait. I purchased my 2012 Jetta used about a week ago yea its the 2.0 but this one gets up and goes better than my 04 Jetta 2.0 (it had a 4 speed auto) I love all the great compliments I get about how great it looks and I love all the standard features......no big complaints here!

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  Gotta get a GLI - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By difran111 - July 13 - 6:43 am

  Just came off-lease on a 2001 Jetta GLS VR6 and I had to have another. Thought about buying my 01 until I got behind the wheel of the 04 GLI VR6. This car is a beast...love the beefed up 24v engine, 6-spd manual and 17-inch alloys. Like my 01 Jetta, the fit, finish, quality of my 04 GLI are exceptional. VW continues to impress with affordable performance!!

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  Love this! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mmills - July 11 - 5:13 am

  Even though we bought the value package, it still has some great features. Power windows and doors and remote entry are really great! For a 4 cyl. it still drives nice. It fits our three kids in the back with one booster seat. Lots of trunk space!!! We bought new and have had no problems. It is the perfect small car for us. My husband is tall and I am really short and it is very comfortable for both, unlike the Honda. I felt like I was in a Low rider. The Jetta makes me feel taller and more comfortable. Would (and have) recommend this car to others.

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  Worst Car I Ever Owned - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Help help help - July 10 - 12:56 am

  Many, many, problems with this car. Repairs are often and expensive, most of which only VW can do. Just in the last 15 months, valve body $2600, over heat $440, AC cooling fan $625, new water pump $920. There have been many other issues, rear joint berrings, engine light coming on, cheap plastic on the interior, broken knobs, broken armrest, door handle material peeling off, radio quits and only VW has the special key to replace fuse, greasy insulation oozes from doors. And there were a half dozen recalls in the first couple years, power windows, brakes, etc. The resale on this car is terrible, once the warranty is out it depreciates much faster the other brands.

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  Factory defects from factory - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By luisdiaz - July 9 - 6:24 am

  Bought a new 2011 jetta se from day one car pulling and drifting to right. Dealer said it was out of alignment and rotated tires with only 250 miles on car. Still drives toward right side. Took in two more times, they said nothing they can about it. Tested another demo car same thing looks like a factory defect. Have filed for lemon law. Buyers beware of this factory problem it will eat your tires up. Miami, fflorida owner.