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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  Happy in DC - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Elliott Rubinstein - August 31 - 11:56 am

  This car is wonderful love the fuel mileage,rides well on long trips ,sound system is above average. Very satisfied with quality of equipment. Would recommend this car over Accord and Camry much better value

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  Fun!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By phishockey - August 31 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my GLI for a week and I love this thing. Im still in the break-in period, so I havent fully tested it yet. But, so far its very smooth and lots of fun to drive.

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  OIL CONSUMER - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Amandarbaker - August 28 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle requires a lot of oil. Remember to check the oil frequently. Also when your battery dies they are more expenseive than a normal battery so be prepared. Oh and the breaks, yeah good luck, only the Volkswagon dealtership sells them. In the long run this car will cost a lot of money.

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  I LOVE my Jetta!!!! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By RaceGirl - August 28 - 10:00 am

  So far my experiece with this car has been awesome! I come from driving a 02 Saturn, which did not give me the value in return for the care put into it. The Jetta gives the features I want and all the power I could want. Once I start driving I dont feel like getting out. The drive on it almost feels like a V6 even though its not, the drivers side is very roomy and provides plenty of comfort. Overall, from the day I walked onto the VW lot until now I have had nothing short than a great experience!!

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  The Little Car That Could - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By SabsNJ - August 28 - 10:00 am

  This is my 2nd Jetta. Ever since my 1st Jetta was totaled when an idiot ran a stop sign (Yet not a scratch on me!!), I couldnt wait until I could afford a brand new Jetta. The 1.8 Turbo is the perfect size for this car. The pickup is great, the brakes and steering are nice and tight. The shifting is smooth. Spacious trunk. The sport seats give you a nice snug fit. Great for long distance rides. LOVE LOVE LOVE!

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  The Money Pit - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Just Say NO! - August 27 - 2:00 am

  Where do I begin...Lets start with the peeling paint on the hood and roof. Not exactly showroom quality and its only two years old. I have replaced the rear brakes and calipers two times in the past 36K miles. My Maxima is going on 40K miles on the original brakes! Tail lights seem to burn out bulbs regularly to the point where I actually have a supply in the trunk and the brakes sound like a fog horn when backing up. According to two dealerships..."this is just how it is!" The pads are dragging against the rotors and there is no way to prevent it....right! What else..oh yeah..the chronic ignition coil failure and that horrible turbo lag.

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  Fun to drive - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By bobthony - August 27 - 2:00 am

  This car is fun to drive. It handles well, acellerates well, and breaks well. It doesnt have alot of room for passengers in the back, but what do i care? Im driving :) Ive had a few problems with the car. Bad window regulator, but it was fixed promptly and under warrenty. Battery died on me just a week ago, it was covered under the warrenty. My radio stopped working for a week and started working again, but they said they would replace it anyways. All minor issues and taken care of without any money out of my pocket.

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  So far ,so good - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ifix777 - August 27 - 2:00 am

  Ive only owned it for 3 months, but so far so good. Gas mileage is very good, around 28mpg, city/highway. Saved a whole bunch on insurance due to all the safety features it came standard. Car is fun to drive, but not very roomy in the backseat. Wish it had a 6th gear, but i guess its there so you can pass cars easly when your going 80 in 5th gear.

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  Torque monster and extremely fuel efficient! - 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Marcelo Murillo - August 26 - 9:26 pm

  I will start with the only thing that could be improved and that is the transmission. I have the DSG transmission and it is great and refined at normal driving speed (15 mph plus) However it is a bit rough when coasting to a stop, driving through a parking lot and other slow situations. It seems there is more low end torque than the transmission knows how to handle and when it downshifts from 3rd to 2nd to 1st gear it is not as smooth as other non-diesel non DSG cars, the dealer checked the transmission and all was good no defects were found. Everything else this car aces, fuel economy is off the charts, build quality is what you expect from VW which is excellent, no squeaks or rattles, the interior materials are solid and not cheap, ergonomics are great and I love the no nonsense designs of the controls. The car handles great and the 2.0 turbo diesel has loads of torque which makes passing and merging into a freeway a breeze (no drama it just builds speed) Road noise is better than other cars Ive tested on this segment and great for long journeys, front seats are very comfortable and there is great leg room for the back occupants (Im 6 tall). Trunk space is actually surprisingly good and mine came with a first aid kit. When it comes to fuel economy this car is a star especially on the highway, I never get less than 550 miles per tank and have gotten as much as 610 in a trip from Florida to Michigan. In conclusion I highly recommend this car to anyone. Ive owned this car for almost 3 years and I bought it used with only 5k miles on the odometer.

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  Jetta - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By baileycat - August 26 - 10:00 am

  After owning this car for 4 years, I have had a few small things to fail on this car. The remote key/alarm doesnt lock the doors with 100% accuracy, the lights for the ac/heater stopped working, and the passenger window last week went down and didnt go back up (it went off the track). Overall, Ive enjoyed good performance and reliability. I will in the future steer clear of automobiles manufactured in Mexico.