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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  I will likely kick myself for selling it - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JenJen - November 20 - 6:10 am

  I bought my 06 TDI right off the truck in Dallas in 05. The cars were really hard to get at the time, but I didnt mind going from OKC to Dallas to pick it up. This car was excellent! It had a "cockpit" like an Audi, was a package 2, so it had nearly EVERYTHING VW had to offer - heated leather seats, memory seats, Sirius sat. radio, HUGE trunk, DSG/Tiptronic transmission, power everything (virtually). Fuel economy was not AS good as what I have heard from others, but I was still "breaking" in the engine. Economy steadily increased from 37 mpg to about 42 mpg by the time I traded it in for an 05 Jetta TDI GLS to keep the fuel economy.

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  Diesel & VW Newbie Loves TDI Sportwagen - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Goldilocks - November 19 - 5:10 pm

  Im a 40 yr old professional working mom with two young kids and a long commute. Id never owned a VW or diesel before buying the TDI Sportwagen (Blue Graphite and beige interior) about 2 weeks/800 miles ago. This car is an excellent value and does so many things well. Performance, comfort, functionality, overall good looks without being too flashy, and MPG are all terrific. So far Im averaging 42 MPG and thats in some stop-and-go traffic. Getting 600 miles per 14.5 gallon tank is both a money- saver and convenient. And its a blast to drive. I expect to be driving this car a long time and told my 6 yr old that if he treats the car right, hell be driving it when he turns 16!

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  Perspective ... I hope this helps someon - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Asphalt - November 19 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car in February of 2000. A year or so later, the check engine light went on. Just this morning my car started smoking on the middle of the highway. I can understand the faulty sensor, but I believe I have a very big issue today. For a car to have such a problem in 2 1/2 yrs refelcts badly on VW. They have major reliability issues. Yes, this car has many good features, ie, handling, roof, heated seats, looks, stereo. Some bad ones, ie, gas mileage, high price, faulty sensors, and ??? (My car is in the dealership right now for it). From an economic perspective, there are much better choices. From a fun perspective, I believe it is above average

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  The Peoples car could be les pedestrian - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mighty Entropy - November 19 - 10:00 am

  the car is well made, but there are a lot of little things that annoy me about it... the rear tweeters keep rattling, the windows fall into the door..broken glove box, peeling interior and the worst part of all is the lousy service departments. The service department alone is enough to not want to buy this car. Sadly with all the things that go wrong there is no avoiding it.

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  So far so good! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By aj - November 18 - 10:06 pm

  I just got my Jetta recently and so far things are great! The only thing I wonder about is whether the sort of clicking sound as I accelerate is normal.... It isnt a bad sound necessarily, but I notice it. The interior is wonderful except for the non-existant center console. Otherwise, I love it!!! : )

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  Ive had too many issues - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By 01041986 - November 18 - 4:53 am

  When I first bought my brand new Jetta, I was very excited, it was cool and new. The excitement quickly failed as I have had many issues with the car. First off, the car had a rattling problem, I have taken it in to be fixed about 5 times, it still rattles. The horn went out at about 500 miles, first time it was ever used. I have had lights stop working and bad service at the dealership. This past weekend the exhaust warning light has come on, I am not sure what it means but I have a feeling it is just something stupid because it is a Volkswagen, not well built. If i had a choice, I would not have bought this car.

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  All ready in shop, after first payment - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By teresabutler89 - November 18 - 2:23 am

  We researched and researched this car and felt like we were making the best decision due to its great gas mileage. I am very disappointed in our car already. We have just made our first payment and the car just broke down on us. We had to call VW roadside assistance to have it towed right from our garage. We were supposed to be given rental car to drive. I was expected to drive one hour from our home without a car to get this rental car. I would wait before buying the 2006 Jetta TDI to see if any more bugs show up in these cars. Also do not buy one if you have to sign a waiver taking away your rights to take the dealer to court. Lemon laws dont last long. There are already buy backs.

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  Great car! - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ducvw2004 - November 17 - 1:33 pm

  This is not my first VW, let alone my first Jetta. Ive owned 7 VWs previously. As always, the quality is very good for the price, and the TDI diesel engine is phenomenal on fuel mileage. On a recent 100 mile round trip on secondary (2-lane) country roads, we averaged about 42mpg with the AC on. Very nice! By far one of the better cars Ive owned...and my other car is a 2008 Corvette that cost $63,000 new, so am a bit picky! And, contrary to popular belief, Low Sulfur Diesel is available everywhere. I live in a small town and within 10 miles there are 6 gas stations, four of which offer the proper diesel, the other two I didnt even bother to check.

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  Not a bad car - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By SK18 - November 16 - 6:36 pm

  I bought this older car to get around town and to go back and forth from the train station mainly. Its cute and fun to drive, but just a couple of months after purchasing needed work, which the mechanics I took it to had trouble spotting. Getting it fixed has been a hassle, but thats often the case with any car.

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  Horrible....Dont ever buy these - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Corey - November 15 - 10:43 pm

  Nothing but trouble. Have had engine problems forever. The radio emblems even wear off. How pathetic is that. Then, Volkswagen people try to give us the run-around all the time. And the warranty wont even cover it. Worst vehicle and company ive ever been associated with. Period, Never buy a Volkswagen. Ever.