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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  A sad disappointment - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Heather B. - August 3 - 10:00 am

  The car rides low, and the bumper pulled off twice after barely scraping against a barrier. Service man stated, "Jetta owners learn real quick to stay away from curbs." The car also required extensive work after I hit a pothole. Dont EVER hit the curb if parallel parking. My car needed a new rim and an alignment, which is more expensive than most and has to be done at the dealership. The windshields position allows for rocks to repeatedly hit it. I could no longer afford monthly payments and repair costs, and thus did not mind losing $2,000 when I traded it in for a Toyota.

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  quick car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By lantirn - August 3 - 10:00 am

  The car is definitely quick and still sporty. If you like soft suspension you wont get it here. The suspension is sporty even though the car looks like its about to go SUV. The car gets smoother as you drive on the highway. And the feel of the steering wheel and manual stick shift is so much better than any Japanese car Ive driven.

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  Driver Found! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By sonkota4 - August 3 - 10:00 am

  I love my Jetta. It runs good, it looks good and it feels good.

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  Just drive it. - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By CBass - August 3 - 10:00 am

  All you have to do is drive this car, seriously. I went from hell bent to owning a WRX to driving off the lot 20 min. after I sat behind the wheel. It balances perfectlly comfort and performance. Its almost uncanny how weel this car just does what you want it to.

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  Disappointing VW - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Kerry - July 28 - 8:40 pm

  I bought this car new 1999 and at first I loved it. However, I have since changed my mind. Im not sure if its because this car was built in Mexico and not Germany that the quality is not as good, but I have had the left rear window fixed TWICE at my expense. The electrical system is shotty at best. When I turn down the radio volume, it gets louder before it gets quieter. The interior of the car seems to falling apart. The gear shifter cover had to be replaced 3 times and the rear cup holder cover keeps popping off. As for the exterior, my biggest complaint is that the driver and passenger side door bumpers (the rubber part, so people dont ding your doors) have fallen off. My 1975 Westy is better.

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  2009 Jetta TDI improved and unimproved - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By samd - July 27 - 1:26 pm

  My 09 Jetta TDI has comfort and speed. There are key flaws: engine stalls frequently at low rpm, unlike the more robust 98 TDI; brakes ice over in snow make for a choppy first stop; electric motor fan noise is so loud cant ride with windows down in summer; cab fogs up bad circulation; engine annoying whistle when it is turned off; fuel gage lies half full means 2/3 empty; radio is only tuned for hip-hop missing freqs for classical and rock; radio has no amp for ipod sucks ipod battery dry; ipod connection has no shielding thus feedback noise is bad.

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  Wolf within a sheep - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ehdesi - July 27 - 10:00 am

  We love this car, when your wife wants to drive it all the time you know it must be fun! Engine is great, easy functional design in cabin, predictable road handling and super quick. For everyday driving the turbo doesnt feel different, but when you floor it the extra poer is there, espcially on the highway passing. The only givaway this car is quick is the 17" wheels

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  Show me the gravel trap...... - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Stanley Lui - July 27 - 10:00 am

  1st day: cooln fan rattles, technician stuck his hand in it and have it stop. (What?) 6th day: noise at left front wheel, inspectn scheduled 2 wks later. 19th day: before inspectn, left front ball joint collasped, thanks God it didnt happened on hwy. (The reason I purchased this car was for its sport ability, but road handling was not there! I almost match the fate of Mr. Zinardi) Car towed to dealer, fixed same day. Dealer suspects someone sleepn at assembly line. Recd 1 monthly paymt from Volks for this incident. My 4th Volkswagon tells me 1 fact: Reliability declines after moving the assemble line to S. America.

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  Suprised - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JT - July 25 - 8:46 am

  Traded in a BMW 540i for my 2006 Volkswagen Jetta Value Edition. What a surprise! This car is just as comfortable, has a larger trunk, wonderful sound system, and great looking with 17" wheels. I drove it to AZ from TN and it hanled great in all weather conditions and road conditions. I get an average of 45 mpg.

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  Great performance, zero reliability - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By yoli - July 24 - 9:33 pm

  Love it and hate it. Just name a few problems fixed on my Jetta 2002: - First week of ownership, rear passenger door couldnÂ’t open because cable fell down inside the door panel. - One piece radio got replaced three times. - Ignition coils replaced at four times. - Windshield wrapper loosened, ridiculous. - Now the front brake squeaks, I was told that there is no way to fix unless change the whole brake pads, disks, etc, I canÂ’t believe that. Â…