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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  not bad - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By paul76812 - January 7 - 2:00 am

  NICE, FUN LITTLE SPORTSCAR. THE TURBO IS GREAT, AND HANDLES GREAT. MY JETTA SEEMS TO HAVE A HARD TIME STARTING IN THE COLD AND THE SEATS AND NOT THAT COMFORTABLE. OVERALL, I CANT COMPLAIN.

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  great when no problems! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By patsy - January 7 - 2:00 am

  I love my Jetta when Im not having problems with it. As others have experienced---air flow sensor, ignition wiring, that nasty goop coming from the doors, moon roof pan, and the front window clips have been replaced 3 times!!! Not to mention, the battery, and rear brakes being done at 20K miles. Im at 38K miles and I havent had to replace the tires yet!!! Biggest complaint with this model is the aerodynamics. The first time I rolled the rear windows down on the interstate, I thought I had a flat...the sound is absolutely deafening....something I was unaware of and the dealership didnt tell me about. So you cant roll down the rear windows.

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  Fun to drive, great interior. - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By sims158 - January 7 - 2:00 am

  I should mention that the reliability rating is only based a months worth of driving. I love the interior of this car and the feel of the car when driving. Its actually fun to drive in the snow, and the ABS is most useful. The sound system is great, I just wish it had a little more leg room in the back. Owell, Ill always have all the room I want. A good choice for any one thats looking for quality, comfort, and safety.

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  I will never buy VW again - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By brookem0517 - January 6 - 7:28 pm

  My Jettas engine completely shuts off while driving. It has happened 4 times in the last year. I take it to the Volkswagen dealership and they tell me there is nothing they can do about it. It really upsets me I have not even had my car for 3 years and it is not reliable. I am scared to drive because I dont know when my car is going to randomly shut off. This is a huge safety issue. This issue could cause me to be in an accident. I was always a huge Volkswagen supporter and thought I would always drive a Volkswagen, but now I am questioning that. I am so disappointed about the quality and reliability of my car and the fact that no one seems to care.

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  Too Many Problems - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By crys - January 6 - 10:00 am

  I want to love this car - but too many problems are making me crazy!!! Air bag light has come on three times before the car was even a year old. Oxygen sensor was recalled - something i didnt have to pay for to fix. MAF sensor needed to be replaced (25,000 miles) - sunroof broke - and just recently my window fell off the track and fell into the door!!!! It seems like everytime i fix something - something else breaks!!! There is no need for a car this expensive to have so many problems.

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  German Engineering--seriously? - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By steveocda - January 4 - 9:09 pm

  I have a 2006 TDI. I have replaced the dual mass flywheel because the original failed. That is a very expensive repair and negates a whole lot of good gas mileage savings. I also had to replace the cracked plastic valve cover. The rubber coating on the radio and radio buttons has peeled off and looks horrible. The mechanism on most of the air vents have broken off so they dont move easily. The fuel door lock sticks so the fuel door doesnt close easily. These kinds of problems simply shouldnt exist on a car at this price point. I havent seen that kind of poor quality in any other late model I have driven.

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  Buyer Beware - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tony - January 4 - 5:30 pm

  At first I really liked this car. Sure the Value Edition limited my choices, but the car came with a lot of standard features anyway. For the price, it almost seemed to good to be true. Unfortunately, it was. Its been downhill since I drove it off the lot. A sensor problem with the door locks required VW techs at corporate to help diagnose and fix. Then there was the recent recall due to fuel line problems. But the real clincher for me is the ride. I cant believe someone described it as "smooth" unless they just got the car. Up to about 1300 miles, it was smooth. But once the suspension got broken in, it now rides like a horse-n-buggy. I would not buy this car knowing what I know now.

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  awesome car to drive - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By njjettalover - January 3 - 10:00 am

  this is my first car here as well my first VW. I got a great deal and with all the fully loaded features the cost was less than Civic EX / Corolla S (i know that there are lot of red faces now that i have compared jetta to civic / corolla). The car is excellent to handle especially during curves / ramps (you can easily push the car to 15 mph more than the specified speed at ramps). Transmission is a bit rough in the first 8000 miles but then it really loosens up. Reverse gear is initially the most unco-operating part!

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  Great Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Adrian - January 3 - 3:06 am

  So far my driving experience has been awesome. The Jetta has passed every one of my expectations.

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  Jetta is amazing - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By liz - January 2 - 11:50 am

  I had no idea what I was buying when I got this car used but have been amazed at my luck. With little to no problems, my Jetta is my pride and joy. It is reasonably priced its an amazing car that looks as good as it feels. I would HIGHLY recommend it to anyone.