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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  Nice design but poor quality - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By nwr - July 8 - 12:33 am

  I decided on the Jetta 1.8T because it provided a nice list of features for the price, and I thought the 4cyl-turbo engine provided a decent compromise between performance and fuel efficiency. The car has great ergonomics and is comfortable to drive, but Ive lost faith in the cars build quality and reliability. Ive had the car for 5000 miles. Here are the problems Ive encountered so far: 1) A/C did not work out of the box. Broken seal on the compressor had to be replaced. 2) Vacuum line "fell off" the intake manifold. Caused loss of power brakes and engine stalling. Had to be towed. 3) Very poor gas mileage--18mpg (2mpg better than my SUV!). Dealer is investigating...

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  Nice way to enter the driving world :) - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By VWfan93 - July 5 - 7:53 pm

  Im a sixteen year old, and recently got my Volkswagen jetta, tdi, wolfsberg edition. This car is soooo Nice, I love it. The handling, the power, the diesel, the seats, everything! You name it my car, has it. I have loved this cars sense they came out and Im so glad I got one. Sure, it has its down falls. One being when I slow down the steering gets harder. But, as I go faster its sooo easy, which is better :). I love the diesel engine getting about 45-50, Im pretty happy. I could not ask for a better car, cant wait for 200k :)

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  Flashy! Flashy! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ellissteven - July 4 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! I got it new with only 6 miles on it in april of 2004 when i turned 16. And Trying to be responsible with the turbo!!! After a minor problem with the sunroof switch there has been no problems since. Love This Car Gotta Get 1!!!

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  Jetta fun- but bad front suspension - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By turbohack - July 4 - 10:00 am

  Love the cars performance - really quick out of the hole (watch that red- line - tach revs-up really quick). Handles nice and I love the sunroof. Moonsoon stereo so-so. Right front suspension clunks on a left turn over a bump. Two weeks and three tries cant find the problem. I want my Jetta back - w/o the clunk !

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  Its Never Gonna Die - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By knoxgrassdealer - July 3 - 5:00 pm

  I bought my 1.8t 4dr in early march with 100,000 miles, and Ive put it through the works. Im 19 year old so Im not the slowest driver, the second day i had it i crashed the hell out of it. Im not sure how but the air bags didnt deploy, and i was able to drive away with ease. I had to replace many parts including doors, windows, wires. Very easy work considering the dept of it. Since, Ive put over 8,000 miles on it and my girl friend had smashed more windows out lol. But overall whenever i get more money Im definitely gonna consider buying another one. Excellent performance, Decent fuel economy, Kinda small, Big trunk! ;) Great car..

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  TDI Rocks!! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By DieselRocks - July 2 - 7:50 pm

  Its all about the fuel economy, 530 miles per tank, need to say more? Handles the Turnpike very well, sways a little with the wind - the best part driving around curves Vroom Vroom Vroom.

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  Great when running - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kate001 - July 2 - 2:00 am

  I have been extremely disappointed since I bought my Jetta in November of 2001. I have been stranded and had to tow my car twice in the past three weeks from ignition coil failures (26,000 miles and 26,800 miles). The check engine light flashes randomly and the electrical controls on my car have been repaired three times. My brake switch failed at about 18,000 miles. Not a good year for the Wolfsburg. Id sale mine as soon as possible, except I would feel guilty turning it over to someone. I must say, it is a great car to drive...I just cant call it reliable.

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  Great car to own - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By earl - July 2 - 2:00 am

  great car at a great price. Our third Jetta !!!!

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  2006 GLI 2.0T - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By VW - July 1 - 8:10 am

  I have had this car for 6 months and love it. Interior is much improved from my 03 GTI VR6, the ergonomics are far superior. The turbo engine is strong no matter where you catch it in the RPM band and the six speed is excellent. Features such as the trip computer, auto up/down on all the windows, and ventilated glovebox are all small features that set this car apart from its competitors. This car represents excellent value. Oh did I mention I have logged 34.5 mpg on the highway?

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  Value for the Money - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jeremy - June 30 - 10:33 pm

  It costs more but you get more. I also considered getting an Accord and Camry but after a test drive I was convinced to go with the Jetta. Its handling is solid and predictable, especially in bad conditions. Its not a sports car and does not perform like one. Instead it does what it is expected to do really well. It is very comfortable at speed on the highway with good torque. It suits my driving style perfectly.