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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  Great Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Don A. - January 26 - 10:00 am

  This is the best of several VWs I have owned. It has surprising power and with a 40 mile commute the milage is a real plus. The moonroof has minimum wind noise at highway speeds if you use the comfort setting. The monsoon sound system is excellent and the controls on the steering wheel are a huge improvement.

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  Great value in the $25K range - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By MikeG - January 25 - 4:50 pm

  Just bought the Jetta 2.0T with Option package 1. Great value all around for someone who wants a larger size compact with good to excellent performance, safety, and luxury features. The torque (acceleration) is great both from 0-60 and for passing on the freeway. The DSG transmission is seamless - you barely can tell when the gears shift - no turbo lag. I also appreciate the engine braking and overall quick throttle response. Interior features (dual climate controls, heated 12-way power leather seats, sunroof) are ergonomically excellent. Handling very good. Ride comfort good given handling (much better than Acura). More interior space than Audi A3, same engine, trani, chassis, $Ks less.

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  Jetta not SAFE - incorrect Digital Fuel Guide - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mildred - January 25 - 9:25 am

  The fuel gage is always way off. Dangerous distraction in car causing tons of anxiety. The digital gage will say that you have 30 miles in the tank and you will drive 4 miles and it will say you have 15 miles left. Then it gets worse as you drive another mile and it says you have 5 left.......even though you had 30 and only went 5 miles (should have 25 left). This creates the driver to always be looking at the digital gas gage distracted and panicked because the math is so pathetic in these Jettas. There cars are horrible at technology to the point of dangerous, distracting, and misleading. I spoke with two employees at Jetta who actually changed the gage because it was so dangerous and incorrect. Honestly, how did this car pass safety inspections with such a blatant and ridiculous technology problem inside the car (that even employees at Jetta agree is dangerous and misleading)???????

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  The engine wont quit - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By NotherJettaOwner - January 25 - 1:23 am

  We bought this Jetta back in the beginning of 2001 with nearly 48k on it. This year, I took an outside sales job and Ive pushed it from about 137k to 160k and counting. Its days are numbered, as I havent done much upkeep outside of oil changes, but this sucker still doesnt burn a drop of oil. The coolant is starting to leak a little. Both windows on the driver side are off track and are held in place by pieces of wood propping them up. Radio reception is awful. Transmission will stick going uphill from time to time. We superglued the rubber molding to keep it in place and that has worked pretty well. Knock on wood, the car has never left me stranded.

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  Jetta GLI 2005 1.8 Turbo 20 Valves engine - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ismael_1966 - January 23 - 8:16 pm

  I bought this car from new. Have some problems thats was cover by warranty and others that not since the car does not have warranty any more. The car has around 90,000 kms. Since new the car gave me a lot of problems with the windows falling inside the doors. Plagued with Door Locks problems. Radiator fans damage, the fuse box on top of the battery got damage. Brake light switch has damage two times. The engines has some problem to start in the morning, coolant temperature sensor has been replaced 3 times. Rear brakes make awfull noise 1n reverse. The car spend more time in the mechanic than with me. If you get a VW, sell it as soon as the warranty is finish or you will go broke!

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  Wheres the love the the new Jetta - 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
  By vagcom13 - January 22 - 9:00 pm

  The funny thing about the new Jetta is that almost all automotive reviews knock it while almost every consumer review praises it. I bought a 2012 Jetta two weeks ago for my Fiance and so far we love the car. The styling is great, the engine is more then sufficent for daily driving, and for the price I really dont think this car can be beat. So much nicer then a Civic/corrolla/alantra and actually probably just as roomy and superior to the camery/accord/sonata. The asian counterparts are simply not as fun to drive!!! Yes the interior is a mild downgrade from the last Jetta, but its still superior to the competition. I wish the journalist would show a little love towards this solid car.

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  Fun to Drive but pricey to maintain - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By vwscal - January 20 - 10:00 am

  This car is a lot of fun to drive and responds / handles beautifully. I dont think anyone can dispute that. But this car is expensive to maintain! Every repair is pricey! The moldings on my car fall off anually. Ive had window regulators repaired and the ignition switch replaced and have had numerous electrical problems that took numerous visits to diagnose and fix. A lot of other interior things to numerous to list that scream - poor workmanship.

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  Not a honda - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Peter vanPetegrem - January 20 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car for its driver oriented characteristic. Satisfied on that front. However, reliability is questionable at best.

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  Dont Buy This Car - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By hecton - January 20 - 10:00 am

  I have owned this car for three plus years and in that time I have had three electrical problems (blown sensors and a failed electrical harness). I am expecting more of the same in the years to come and I am wondering why I ever bought this vehicle. I miss my Toyota!

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  Great value and fun to drive too! - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Steve - January 20 - 7:40 am

  Just leased the 2010 LE automatic last week. I have to admit this is one fun car to drive. Fit and finish are on par with BMW and Mercedes. I just came off of a 5 series BMW lease, and my wife drives a 300 AWL Benz. I actually prefer the ride of the Jetta to the Benz. Not quite a challenge to the BMWs handling and performance, but for less than half the price its a pretty good trade off. The cabin is extremely quiet, even over rough pavement, and the car corners through turns very confidently with just modest body roll. Acceleration is reasonably quick. The car has a heftier feel to it which belies its actual weight. This translates into what feels like a more substantial road presence.