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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  Gem of a car - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Praney Mittal - February 25 - 2:00 am

  It has been an extremely powerful car, still has the fastest pickup of many other cars I have tried. Extremely lovable possession

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  Far-From-Pumping - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By diesel-nut - February 24 - 11:13 pm

  Just hit 25,000 miles and loving every second with this car. Fun to drive, sips the fuel, and plenty of power to spare. Ive added a Thule luggage basket, tinted the windows, and added a trailer hitch. This car looks awesome!

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  Major Disaster - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mightymoe - February 24 - 3:43 pm

  For those looking to purchase this car, take every problem listed seriously. I encountered every single problem listed in other reviews. My car has had a bad coolant sensor, a windsheild crack, bad coil pack, one of the pistons went out, problems with the brakes and brake light, a bad oxgyen sensor, the check engine light went on, the glove compartment broke, and the cupholders broke as well. VW customer service stniks and they dont even know how to fix their own cars. I am never buying a Jetta again!

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  Jetta TDI - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By marku - February 24 - 10:00 am

  I bought the Jetta TDI about a year ago, and have not been sorry. In terms of reliability and ergonomics, it was and is the hands down winner in its class. I get about 39MPG in mostly highway driving, which is slighly less milage then the advertised 41 highway. Bottom line: spend the extra $$$ and get the Jetta!

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  jetta GLS 1.8T (terrific!) - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jwbitz - February 24 - 10:00 am

  I bought a new 02 Jetta GLS 1.8T (galactic blue) w/luxury package and cold weather package. I love it! Very fun to drive, comfortable ride, great fuel economy, nice sound system.

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  my jetta has some problems - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jettaprobs - February 24 - 10:00 am

  I love my black jetta GLS but there are some problems that the dealer will not fix. For example, there are buzzing noises coming from the windows or speakers and various places inside the car. It is a beautiful car and after 13,000 miles I havent had too many problems but the dealership still cant figure out those buzzing noises.

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  You gotta drive this car - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By love the v dub - February 22 - 2:00 am

  being 42 yr old driver I have had several new and used cars in my lifetime to this point. By far this car is a blast to drive handles like my old 280 zx but gets 40+ miles to the gallon. acceleration,cornering and all around performance is top notch . Interior is well laid out the seat could be a slight touch larger but are comfortable more sporty than plush. All in all if the expected reliability is what its supposed to be I can see myself still driving this car in 7 years from now. And what I save a month on gasoline from not driving my pick up it is just about 3/4 of my car payment

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  Would Buy It Again - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tom - February 22 - 2:00 am

  Love this car, great value, great car!! I have had no problems. My first VW. I say anyone looking in this price range check it out!

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  In luv with my VDUB - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kpad1ne - February 21 - 7:10 pm

  My girlfriend works for Volkswagen & I was skeptical when she bought her 07 Jetta.I am a die hard Nissan/tuner enthusiast & I am amazed with the performance & smooth ride of German vehicles, in this case VWs Jetta.The car has great acceleration & good power considering its weight & remote 150hp, but could pack a punch when you need it to.The 6spd auto/DSG feature is great & the comfort, interior quality, & ride is amazing, not to mention the car is affordable.Black is the best color for the Jetta as it highlights all of its elegance & compliments the chrome front grille the best.I am in love & will be purchasing one for myself, the GLI of course.

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  Great car, saved my life - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By bludvigsen - February 21 - 12:35 pm

  This car saved my life from being broadsided at 40 mph by a much heavier car, so the structural build quality and safety features (b-pillar, side curtain airbags, engine cut-off, etc.) are impressive. Great engine/drivetrain with enough torque to beat most cars off the line and pass on the highway while doing 80+ MPH without downshifting from 5th. Thats with the 5-cyl motor and 5-spd manual Interior very well designed with high quality materials, switches, seats, etc. Very comfortable, firm seats felt great after 10 hour trips. Reliability was great for the 69K miles I owned it. No problems, only sched. maint. & oil changes.