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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  TDI - Yeah Baby - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Danny - September 18 - 3:13 am

  Dude - What an awesome car. I used to drive a 95 Jeep Cherokee. Quite a step up. 43 miles to the gallon! Smooth and quiet ride. This our first VW but we cant wait until we get our next one. You sit in the drivers seat and you think, "Man, Im drving a pretty posh car!"

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  Nothing hidden, "It is what it is..." - 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
  By cmc370 - September 17 - 8:01 pm

  I purchased a manual SE w/ conv package a few months ago and have driven about 80 miles a day since, mostly highway and I have been satisfied by the MPG, transmission (wish it had a sixth gear, but the fifth and forth gears are rather tall) and features. If you expect high grade interior material, then you should understand that this car is a compromise, high value, high feature, something had to give, and that was the "plastic" nature of this car. I call it my plastic car (even the seats are plastic) but appreciate the good ride, decent acceleration and good transmission. The car is surprisingly fun to drive, but compliant as a highway cruiser.

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  Nice comuter vehicle - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By scanman11 - September 17 - 9:16 am

  After quite a bit of research-usuall Hondas, Toyotas, Chevrolet, Ford etc we (My wife) decided that the Vdub was for her- I think it was the lightly covered leatherette, the bluetooth and the touchscreen radio (Interfaced well with iphoneSatelite radio etc) It is a comfortable car for her 45min commute-actually more comfortable than my 2009 BMW 335i- very good MPG, she is getting about 32 mpg in mixed traffic conditions, this after about 1800 miles. My only gripe is that after 1750 miles the injecters went and left her stranded. Yes, the dealership fixed the problem- but she had to fight for a "Loaner" or "rental" for the day and a half that it was off the road.

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  MY New 08 Jetta - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Carolinep - September 16 - 4:03 am

  This is my second Jetta and I absolutely LOVE it. I originally had an 04 Jetta and the improvements since then are amazing. What a stylish car it has turned into! I love driving it and its got a lot more oomph since with the 2.5 upgrade. definitely a great car worth looking into.

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  VW, where have you been all my life? - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By PiggyBaby - September 14 - 2:50 pm

  Bought my Jetta Wolfsburg in July 08 and have put over 1,500 miles on it. I must say, this is absolutely the funnest car Ive ever owned - 6 in the last 10 years. Aside from the 02 BMW 330Ci, all my other purchases have been Japanese made. Looking back, I wish Id only discovered VWs earlier. The handling and performance of my Jetta Wolfsburg reminds me very much of that BMW 330Ci I once owned, but at less than HALF the price of the Beemer. The Jetta is truly the best VALUE; Ive never been so satisfied. Im getting much more for the price I paid. This car really shines on the highways, as the power and acceleration of the turbo-charged engine is very responsive. Love this car!

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  2.5 Year Evaluation of Manual TDI GLS 01 - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By DUG - September 14 - 10:00 am

  I have had the car during 2 St. Louis winters. Both times the fuel has frozen.The first year I didnt use any diesel additive. The 2nd yr I used plenty, but it still failed. The dealer told me that it was bad fuel, luckily I bought the fuel from Quik Trip and the guarantee there fuel. They paid for it. So I am still unsure about the condensate theory. Now (60000) it needs a timing belt, new rear brakes, and it looses power at 2400 RPMs. I inquired at the dealer the cost Timing Belt=500.00, Power problem =300.00 to 1200.00. I am disappointed at the high cost to maintain this $21,000 vehicle. I love the performance, driving, and styling of the Jetta.

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  Poor mans Mercedes! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By KevinLBailey - September 14 - 10:00 am

  This has to be the best car Ive ever owned. Its fun to drive and handles very good. Of coarse, I opted for the 17" low profile tires with the sport suspension! And its a very safe car! 5 out of 5 Stars. Only thing, interior lights burnt out within first year! Other then that, great car.

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  So far so good - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jettan - September 11 - 3:00 pm

  I bought a 2010 Jetta S about a month ago and I enjoy driving so far. Driving is not as smooth as 2010 Camry but I prefer this design to Toyota or Honda cars. The car is also slim, which makes it easy to park in my narrow garage. The car has a weight to it which I like. Even the doors and trunk are heavier than Toyota cars, which makes it safer. Overall, it is a very safe and fun car. I wish I had gotten SE instead of S. S has cloth seats and I prefer leatherlike seats and an upgraded interior touch screen.

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  Lease or get an extended warranty - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By klamp80 - September 9 - 10:59 pm

  I have about 24,000 miles on my car. My engine light came on the other day and I am also having some electrical issues. The speakers fade in and out depending on whether I have the heat on or if I open a window. Its strange but not shocking since I know they are notorious for electrical problems. Up until now, I havent had any issues with the car. Overall I dont dislike the car. The pickup is okay, I feel that its a comfortable ride, and it handles well for me in terms of performance.

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  good car, short money - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By johnny C - September 8 - 10:00 am

  sporty, fun to drive. quality German engineering for a fraction of the cost of other german motors