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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  Id Buy it Again! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jtwizard - August 26 - 10:00 am

  Have had only one problem, the brake booster failed at 43,000 miles. The dealer fixed it on the first visit. This vehicle is extremely economical, while being fun to drive, also. It can also be repaired by a good mechanic unlike some of the hybrid models out today, and you dont ever have to reaplace expensive battery packs.

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  Great car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By VW fan - August 26 - 10:00 am

  I have just owned a VW 2002 Jetta station wagon with good price and low APR car loan. Its a lot of fun to drive this car. Handsome looking with perfect finished inside.

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  2017 Jetta S Manual - 2017 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Eddie - August 26 - 9:58 am

  Great car! I love my jetta! 1.4 turbo! 40 miles per gallon combine using gasoline 91 octane is awesome! Great Value for you money!

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  Major TDI Engine Repairs...Cam failures - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By okcar4me - August 25 - 2:19 am

  Known issue on TDI owner club - cam shaft and lifters fail (not hardened correctly)... BRM Engine code 1.9L Costs to repair was $2000. Prevention: have timing belt replacement, at same time ask for mechanic to assess the valve lifters (followers)... for scarring, pitting and worse yet total failure! Will lose power, will trip all sorts of codes Check engine, progresses to worse! Sorry VW does not offer any ear to this problem.. I am going to japanese engines! Never again for me. If it happens report it to NHTSA ODI (google it). best wishes.....

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  Less flash, more value - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Morgan A - August 23 - 7:11 pm

  While other cars in this class might have a more balls and whistles, the 2016 VW Jetta is a great drivers car. Immediately apparent once in the seats is great visibility out all directions, nicely laid out instrument gauges, and comfortable seats. Rear legroom and trunk space is phenomenal! The new 1.4L turbo engine has plenty of oomph in every year for merges or just run driving with the sport mode. It also offers great fuel economy both in the city and on the highway. I love this car and would be another today. The 2016 Volkswagen Jetta might have just made me a VW owner for life.

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  Less flash, more value - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Morgan A - August 23 - 7:11 pm

  While other cars in this class might have a more balls and whistles, the 2016 VW Jetta is a great drivers car. Immediately apparent once in the seats is great visibility out all directions, nicely laid out instrument gauges, and comfortable seats. Rear legroom and trunk space is phenomenal! The new 1.4L turbo engine has plenty of oomph in every year for merges or just run driving with the sport mode. It also offers great fuel economy both in the city and on the highway. I love this car and would be another today. The 2016 Volkswagen Jetta might have just made me a VW owner for life.

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  Jetta TDI Wagon - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By tom21769 - August 21 - 10:00 am

  This car approaches the safety of a Volvo (with head curtain airbags, good crash test results, and available ESP). It approaches the performance of an Audi (with its sporty handling and diesel torque). When you factor in fuel expenses, it approaches the economy of a Honda or Toyota. Now, if VW could only promise Honda or Toyota reliability, theyd have an unbeatable combination. Its a little small for a family, but wonderful as a second car for solo commuting.

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  I love my Jetta! - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By amnotafish - August 20 - 12:56 pm

  After two years in this car Im still in love with it. I drive this car hard and fast and it keeps up with everyone. It hugs the road and feels much safer than other cars Ive driven. I get a lot of complments as well- especially from Jetta owners 99-02. If something (god forbid) were to happen to this car I would have to find another. The 98s are far superior to the newer VW models and kicks my friends Civic to the curb!

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  Fun to drive - lots of repairs - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By tri1982 - August 20 - 12:23 pm

  When I first got my Jetta, I absolutely loved it. it handled well, accelerated quickly, and was a smooth ride. But I had problems right away. The transmission didnt shift smoothly. My car still jerks and lurches when shifting gears (although the 8 times I took it in, the mechanics never experienced anything). The electrical has had issues too. My windows roll down when I pull the button to roll the window up. My engine light has been on for the last year (although Ive taken it in 4 times. It goes off for a few days and then comes back on.) I love my Jetta, I just dont love all the repairs it needs.

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  Practical, Comfortable but not Spacious - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Weekender - August 20 - 9:36 am

  We bought this car for my wife. She uses it everyday and we use it on long trips. It is comfortable with an excellent, balanced ride. The rear seat is a little cramped but the boot is huge. It is good to drive albeit with excessive clutch play required at idling speeds. The transmission is short and crisp. The steering is precise. It inspires a somewhat erect driving position. The fuel economy we get is 24 mpg, it could be better if VW didnt make this strange choice of a 2.5 5-in-line engine which doesnt really have stellar performance.