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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  Surprising - 2017 Volkswagen Jetta
  By John Smith - January 19 - 6:14 am

  Bought this May 20th after looking at several different choices; lowest out the door cost, good dealer experience and great interest rate sealed it. Pros: Great fuel mileage and good performance from the 1.4 (surprising considering the size of the engine). Wanted a TDI but last re-released 2015 was gone before I could get it; with this engine I dont miss it (40+ MPG on 87 octane). Surprisingly comfortable and equipped, even in base trim. Most people pan the interior; I like a more basic car, much like what was the norm 20 years ago. Seats folded, this thing holds a ton of cargo; hauled several fence pickets, a couple of bags of mulch and potting soil plants and a few groceries with room to spare. I even appreciate the exterior styling; not bland, certainly unoffensive. The MK IV Jetta may have had more Audi styling, but they also suffered from a ton of fit an finish, as well as mechanical, issues this car seems to have avoided. Now for the Cons: Car handles like youre driving through a wind storm; constantly have to make steering corrections to keep in my lane. I blame the Ecopias, steering and suspension eco-natured and commuter friendly tuning; a set of springs and 205/50 17" tires would greatly help here. The drivers door rattles when shut, like the panel is loose, and the dealer plainly stated that every new Jetta does it, and there is nothing they could do to fix it. However, its a sub $20k car; I recently drove a couple of BMW F10 cars, and their doors had worse rattling issues than mine, which is unacceptable in anything that costs $51k. The radio is a little too basic. At the price of entry I would expect alloy wheels and a 6 speed manual. As expected, turbo lag and economy gearing do little to get this thing off the line, which can be dangerous if youre local traffic is as bad as mine. The interior light gray seat fabric will get dirty in a very short amount of time; invest in a good set of seat covers. The rear headrests greatly hinder rear visibility; I cant remove them due to my chosen rear seat cover, which utilizes the headrests as a mounting point. Overall, there may be better choices out there, but the dealer experience won the day. And, considering the cost, I believe the S is the best value; moving up in trim only gets more equipment, and not necessarily a better car (the GLI excepted). Higher trims in non-GLI either get the same 1.4 combo (stick or auto) or are saddled with the much thirstier 1.8 and auto combo.

• 

  Surprising - 2017 Volkswagen Jetta
  By John Smith - January 19 - 6:14 am

  Bought this May 20th after looking at several different choices; lowest out the door cost, good dealer experience and great interest rate sealed it. Pros: Great fuel mileage and good performance from the 1.4 (surprising considering the size of the engine). Wanted a TDI but last re-released 2015 was gone before I could get it; with this engine I dont miss it (40+ MPG on 87 octane). Surprisingly comfortable and equipped, even in base trim. Most people pan the interior; I like a more basic car, much like what was the norm 20 years ago. Seats folded, this thing holds a ton of cargo; hauled several fence pickets, a couple of bags of mulch and potting soil plants and a few groceries with room to spare. I even appreciate the exterior styling; not bland, certainly unoffensive. The MK IV Jetta may have had more Audi styling, but they also suffered from a ton of fit an finish, as well as mechanical, issues this car seems to have avoided. Now for the Cons: Car handles like youre driving through a wind storm; constantly have to make steering corrections to keep in my lane. I blame the Ecopias, steering and suspension eco-natured and commuter friendly tuning; a set of springs and 205/50 17" tires would greatly help here. The drivers door rattles when shut, like the panel is loose, and the dealer plainly stated that every new Jetta does it, and there is nothing they could do to fix it. However, its a sub $20k car; I recently drove a couple of BMW F10 cars, and their doors had worse rattling issues than mine, which is unacceptable in anything that costs $51k. The radio is a little too basic. At the price of entry I would expect alloy wheels and a 6 speed manual. As expected, turbo lag and economy gearing do little to get this thing off the line, which can be dangerous if youre local traffic is as bad as mine. The interior light gray seat fabric will get dirty in a very short amount of time; invest in a good set of seat covers. The rear headrests greatly hinder rear visibility; I cant remove them due to my chosen rear seat cover, which utilizes the headrests as a mounting point. Overall, there may be better choices out there, but the dealer experience won the day. And, considering the cost, I believe the S is the best value; moving up in trim only gets more equipment, and not necessarily a better car (the GLI excepted). Higher trims in non-GLI either get the same 1.4 combo (stick or auto) or are saddled with the much thirstier 1.8 and auto combo.

• 

  Good Car - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By eric - January 17 - 10:03 pm

  The 06 Jetta TDI is a great car. It gets great gas milage and its very fun to drive. It comes with lots of options. I have been very impressed with the performance. I love the safety rating for my family.

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  great car w/poor reliability - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By gsp - January 16 - 9:43 pm

  After 3000 miles on my tdi sedan (diesel) Im delighted w/this small car. Others have said the positive car qualities well, but also like others, Im unhappy with poor reliability. My car next week goes back to the dealership to fix leaking exhaust, twice, and now must replace 2 oxygen sensors. Both problems say my car wont pass my states rules. VW dealerships (2) have tried hard to help. Im very frustrated, of course.

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  Please dont buy this car - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By J.P. - January 15 - 12:50 am

  I bought this car used and started having problems with it a week afer I bought it. Ive had to spend so much money on repairs that I probably could have bought a new, reliable car instead. The windows always malfunction and fall into the doors. The glove box breaks, wiring is faulty, repairs are very expensive, AC compressor broke, lights always go out. It doesnt help that when I tried to have repairs done the dealership kept trying to return it to me without fixing anything or left tools in the engine.

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  Horrible Air Conditioning - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By pthurman - January 14 - 2:37 pm

  My AC started to fail at 40k. Took the to the dealer repeatedly. Per VW of Lafayette, LA - Standard operation of the Air condition is that it takes 8 - 10mins of drive time for the air conditioning to begin working. Eventually my AC totally failed - the compressors on these cars have known defects will produce metal which will contaminate the entire AC system. Both dealer and VW of America refuse to warranty the car. Horrible experience with this car. Btw standard oil change at the dealer is $300! Beware!

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  2005 Jetta TDI - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By john rollins - January 14 - 2:33 am

  I am happy with the 42 mpg average on my 80 mile daily commute, averaging highway speeds of 65 to 79.999 mph. My car passes everything including the gas pumps. Im saving about $2,500 a year on fuel driving this car. In nine years if fuel is still $2.79 per gallon the car was free. 2005 TDI GLS, leather, 5 speed, moonroof, monsoon was less than $22,000, free after 9 years of fuel savings. Thats a discount program.

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  The best wagon around :) - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By 71sbeetle - January 14 - 2:00 am

  We waited a long time before we could afford a new car, but we aways wanted the exact same car : A VW Jetta Wagon ! VW finally sorted out all their problems, and our 2003 is ... PERFECT !!! Lots of miles on it already, and not once in the dealership (except for scheduled maintenance ie oil changes) If you want quality, buy the Jetta WAGON (Made in Germany, sedan is made in Mexico where the quality of the materials is not as good)

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  Jetta #6 - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Steve - January 13 - 5:53 pm

  Just traded in my 02 Jetta for an 04 leftover...first with 1.8T 5-speed. What a difference in performance! Having seen the new design that came out last week, I decided that I wanted another of the current design, which is far superior in looks. While Jettas have had some reliability issues, there is no car on the market that offers so much for so little and is so fun to drive. If you are in the market for a car and can find an 04 leftover turbo, grab it...it was the last year for this engine.

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  So Far So Good - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By crawling - January 13 - 6:23 am

  I owned an Audi TT before the Jetta. I loved my TT but realized that maybe I couldnt afford it after the warranty runs out. The Jetta is more comfortable than the TT. It rides more smoothly. It just doesnt snap your head back when you put it in third and give it some gas. But still, if I close my eyes when I walk to the car and then get in the Jetta, I am in a luxury Audi TT. It has a nice sound system, sunroof, heated seats, and sweet leather. Enjoy life! I really like this Jetta!