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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  BEATS THE TOYOTA PRIUS HANDS DOWN - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By STARWARS TDI - March 24 - 10:00 am

  AFTER FINDING OUT THE REPLACEMENT HYBIRD BATTERY FOR THE PRIUS WAS $2900 NOT INCL TAX AND INSTALLATION, I CHECKED ONT THE HONDA CIVIC (JUNK) AND THE VW JETTA TDI. THE TDI GETS BETTER ACTUAL MILEAGE THAN THE PRIUS ON A CROSS COUNTRY RUN ACCORDING TO CONSUMER REPORT. MUCH ROOMER THAN THE HONDA AND SOUNDS SOLID. AIR BAGS WERE AN EXPENSIVE OPTION WITH PRIUS! ALOT QUITER AND SMOTHER THAN MY FIRST DIESEL RABBIT IN 78. QUALITY OF WORKMANSHIP FAR EXCEED TOYOTA AND HONDA! GETTING 45.8 MPG MIXTURE OF CITY AND INTERSTATE DRIVING. DEALER WAS ABLE TO GET LAST GLS IN FLA FOR ME WITHIN 1 WEEK!

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  Very Fun and Economic - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Hawkster00 - March 24 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car!! I love the handeling in curves. I was able to drive from Nashville, TN to Chicago, IL on one tank of gas. If you are a commuter. This is definately your car.

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  Love It!!!!!!! - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By wOlfJay - March 23 - 6:10 am

  This has to be the greatest purchase Ive ever made with an auto.

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  Yes..Another VW - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By dj jefferson - March 23 - 2:22 am

  I purchased a 2016 Jetta Sport 1.8T with Hid lights for under 20k...Wow..and this is a great car. I had a 2014 Passat 1.8T SE another great car. I discovered during the ownership of the Passat that there is a discernable performance and a measurable mileage increase if you use 91octane or above. So do it.. The 1.8T likes it you will too. The Sport model also has the Sport suspension of the GLI with about a 1-1/2inch lower ride height that provides this model with a added responsiveness and control without having to move-up to a GLI or GTI..consider it a GLI-lite. The interior has Sport seats like the GLI but trimmed like a CC with a tu-toned theme.., nice. This model has also has Navigation standard and the new entertainment interface is excellent. Truly a upgrade..not available on the 2015 models. Overall I already notice an almost 3mpg increase in everyday use. The owner loyalty and large cash incentives were the deciding factors the made me consider another VW. The Passat had zero Problems. I did my comparison shopping and after driving Civic, Corolla, Forte, Elantra, Golf, Jetta, and Mazda 3 the best drivers are the 3,Golf and Jetta. For the price and content the Jetta shines. I did seriously consider the 3 but the closest model a 3s was over 4k more. The 3i 2.0 model compares well with the 1.4T and the 1.8T with the 2.5 3s. Shop with diligence and you will be surprised with the VW overall goodness.. The current available incentives only make it better.

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  First Time VW Owner - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By CS - Cville VA - March 21 - 10:03 pm

  First time owning a VW and I have to say Im very impressed with the quality of materials used in production. Seats are comfortable and supportive. The VW TDI diesel is much quieter than I was expecting after previously driving a Mercedes diesel years ago. Great Car all around so far.

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  Stylish Small Car - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By RadStude - March 21 - 9:33 am

  I bought my Jetta used with 54,000 miles on it and I now have 72,000. It burns a little oil, but that isnt a big deal to me. It has proven reliable, I havent had any electrical issues. Its gas mileage has been around 26 in town and up to 37 on highway 5 in CA. I love this car. I think most of the people complaining about it expected a bargain Mercedes, which this car is not. It is, however, a excellent small car alternative if you are tired of the vanilla vehicles coming out of Japan. Reliability-wise I had more problems with my 1997 Mazda 626 (3 O2 sensors). My one breakdown was mechanic related (non dealership)... He didnt tighten plug #3 and it exploded into the cylinder. I replaced the plugs, and it runs like a champ!

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  Love it!! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By me and i - March 21 - 1:46 am

  Ilove this car. I have had to have the syncronizer replaced and the O2 sensor but what ever the warranty covered it.

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  Great Pocket Rocket! - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By VNMVR6 - March 20 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this car for almost 5 years and it hasnt let me down yet. It runs very smooth and quiet. Quick acceleration. Only problems I have had are the usual VW problems - window regualator failure & loose door molding. No major mechanical work has been needed and my car has 75,000 miles on it! Continues to run strong.

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  first VW more to come - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Zabe - March 20 - 2:00 am

  This was my first VW ever bought. 3 of my friends had bought VWs within the past 2 yrs and they loved their cars (all Jetta from base to GLXs) they handle great in the snow and they are alot of fun on dry roads. So far my exp have been all fun w/this new car of mine. If it keeps goin this way VW has found themselves a new customer for life. VW has put in so many little features that other manufactures leave out and it makes you wonder how you lived w/out them for so long.

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  Gets the job done - 2014 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Naderhood - March 19 - 4:53 am

  I bought this car brand new due to the year end sales and 0% financing. I wanted a smaller sedan that would get great fuel economy and do its job. This car accomplishes all that and then some. This car went for 700+ miles on a tank of diesel. Currently averages around 550 per tank and costs just under $40 to fill up. Its a great little commuter car. On the down side, the diesel lag is very very obvious in this car. Anyone who says otherwise is still in the honeymoon phase. Accelerating from a stop is very annoying. Either you get the obvious lag or you burn out your tires every-single-time. However, Im not a speed racer so I can deal with that, but just know to expect it despite what a few are saying here to the contrary. Also, for a 2014, I feel VW should be embarrassed that this car doesnt come with a standard USB plug. Rather, it comes with an ungodly VW specific plug that only uses VW cables that you can only get from VW stores and they are RIDICULOUSLY overpriced. The car charger cables that the car comes with are a laughable 6" in length, which leaves your phone dangling from arm rest as theyre too short for your phone to rest on anything. It is such a massive fail on VWs part. Ill keep the car because it does its job, but hopefully VW gets its act together on the new models.