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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  Built for Drivers - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Rubens - July 15 - 1:30 pm

  This is the first VW I have owned and I absolutely love it. It is a lot of fun to drive, has a great interior design (especially the leather finish - stitching comparable to a Mercedes), and has great fuel economy. Its standard features, such as leather seats and heated side mirrors, are a real bonus. It has huge trunk space, I had over $650 worth of groceries in there no problem (hey, we were getting ready for Christmas!). The rear passengers love the heat vent that they can control as well as the pull down arm rest that can store magazines or make use of the pop out cup holders. This car is spacious and solid to drive.

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  Technology is not here yet - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mike - July 15 - 12:50 pm

  Radio looks nice but it wont connect and re-connect to iPhone 6S: connection drops if you connect it with USB cable. If you played music it will stop. Why? Dealer confirmed: you need to re-connect/connect every time youre using charging cable. Ohh... Another complaint is gas mileage: I drive to work on highways but car doesnt get 40 mpg. I am easy on gas in D-mode (not in Sport mode) and RPMs are less than 2,000 (!). (I took a picture this morning with 33.2 mpg after my trip). If you used to drive Ford F250 , this number will make you happy.

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  Wolfsburg in Sheeps Clothing - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Crazy 4 VW - July 15 - 7:56 am

  The cleverly disguised Jetta is packing the coveted 2.0T engine & DSG tranny from the VW stable. This is probably the cheapest car from VW/Audi with this fun-to-drive engine and transmission combo. For a few hundred more than a SE, this is a no-brainer choice. The 200 hp is available around 1800 rpm, so you truly get use of the power without having to floor it. I have about 1500 miles to date and have my fingers crossed that there will be no issues down the road. But, the fit and finish of this car are remarkable. The panels are solid without that Japanese tin can sound or feel. The Jetta WE is definitely a viable contender in its class.

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  very good car - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mjginc - July 15 - 2:00 am

  single person, did not want to pay $10,000 for a 3 series BMW with the larger six. enjoyed the roll on power, especially in 3rd (pulls hard from 15mph to 100mph) vs. always having to keep the RPMs up in some Japanese models. drove several times NY to FL and loved the interior design, monsoon stereo and the brakes. zero mechanical problems. only complaints are that the traction control combined with front wheel drive take the fun out of spontaneous burn outs.

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  ROCKET SPORT SEDAN - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JASON - July 13 - 10:00 am

  IF YOU ARE LOKING FOR A FAST,SPORTS SEDAN YOU SHOULD LOOK HERE.FEATURES TO RIVAL MORE EXPENSIVE VEHICLES.COMPARABLE TO A BMW 3 SERIS,AND LEXUS IS300 AT $10,000.00 LESS.LEATHER INTERIOR,200 HP,6 SPD TRANS,SUNROOF & TRACTION CONTROL OR ABOUT $25,000.BEST QUALITY IN ITS CLASS.

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  Amazed at Jetta TDI power & speed - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By plaaaaane - July 13 - 10:00 am

  Had it for a week now. Was worried about the speed/power thing for a small engine. (I had a 4 cyl Ranger that couldnt keep up speed at top of Sunshine Skyway bridge). This TDI accelerates in 5th gear from 80 mph nearing the top of the bridge with no sign of slowing down! The dealer had Hondas so I checked them out- the 51 mpg one. I thought the plastic felt as cheap as my Subaru 76 DL which I loved at the time. The Honda sure wasnt worth a "MARKET ADJUSTMENT" the dealer put on all the Hondas. (What kind of nut would pay a market adjustment?) Anyhow, the Jetta TDI is built solid, runs like a roadster and is comfortable. I love it. Dave

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  Get the 2008 - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Get the 2008 - July 12 - 9:10 pm

  This is an awesome car! Test drove many many cars before ending up with a Jetta. The 170hp is awesome for this class of car. I enjoy all the standard safety and upscale options at such a low starting price.

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  Get in the Jetta - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ag - July 11 - 10:16 am

  I bought my 06 Jetta in January of 2006 and have had only one problem with it. Early on, the wiring harness went out, but luckily, it was covered under the warranty. Other than that, NOTHING has gone wrong (of course, now that I own it, I may have jinxed myself). It loves ice and snow, stops on a dime, and handles speeds up to 105 without vibration. Love it. Everyone should get one!

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  I will never get a VW again - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By SALESCG - July 9 - 10:43 pm

  Bought 2004 Jetta 1.8T, it has been nothing, but a financial burden, almost driving me to the edge of bankruptcy, this car BREAKS ALL THE TIME and VW does nothing for you, Ive spent over $5000.00 in repairs, have receipts to prove, one thing after another, its very depressing!

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  My TDI Eats Hybrids For Lunch - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By pgallagh - July 9 - 1:26 pm

  I love this car!! Been driving a 94 Honda Accord forever (231K miles), and finally decided to treat myself to a newer car. Love my TDI Loyal edition. Bought it one week ago used w/31K miles and it has been fantastic. First day on my 120 roundrip commute got 46mpg and have avg. 41.6 since owning it. Youd never know it was a Diesel. Too bad USA automakers are too stupid to realize the DIESEL is the future!!! When I see Toyota, Ford, Honda advertise their cars get 32mpg (which is good), I shake my head knowing that I consistently beat that by 10mpg regardless of where I am driving. And no darn haz-mat battery to replace with a Hybrid. GO GET ONE WHILE THEY ARE STILL AROUND!!!!