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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  The Good, Bad and Ugly - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By cgwcolorado - June 30 - 4:26 am

  My car now has 165,000 miles and is slowly hitting the hay. When the car works its an amazing car. Unfortunately, when one thing goes wrong you better expect to be making regular appointments with your mechanic for a little while. I have serious electrical problems, door lock problems, the ABS is out, the cruise control went out, only one windshield spray nozzle works, belts, lights, side molding, clutch, pumps, catalytic converter, hoses and transmissions galore. I love my Jetta to death but she hates the cold and the heat and is the end result of all my money!

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  Great Mileage - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By powerstroke444e - June 26 - 1:00 am

  The Volkswagen Jetta TDI is a great car. I run B10 in this one with no problems. I get 40+ mpg in town in sport mode and I never take my foot off of the pedal. I have nad no problems with this car other than it seems to like to go over 90 mph all the time ;).

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  Loving TDI - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Love my TDI!!! - June 25 - 9:36 am

  This is an update on a previous post. I have put 11,000 miles so far since March and have averaged 39 MPG overall 60/40 hwy/cty. I routinely get 45-50 MPG on my 70 mile commute. The engine with the manual trans. is fun to wind up and it is easy to merge in traffic with all the torque. Taking it in for the first maintenance was easy and painless. So far so good!!

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  Diesel advantages - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By althaFL - June 25 - 3:00 am

  Bought the car for the wife but I cant stay out of it. Once you get used to the throttle it is quite peppy and responsive. I can fit in comfortably with some seat adjustments (61") 208. Performance is great along with mileage. I have installed AFE cold air intake and Banks performance exhaust which have improved response and mileage, no I am not a kid but the AARP age, just like to improve on a good base. Driving somewhat progressively using sport mode I manage 38 to 40 mpg and blow by hybrids. Best deal I got was $24,200 not inclusive of taxes and title. TDI Sportwagon 6AM, Southern kit, 17s, protection kit, Ipod adapt, body moldings, color White Gold metallic. Less than 2000 miles but happy.

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  poor long term value - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By justin - June 24 - 10:43 am

  This car falls apart after 40,000. It has a terrible electrical system. But it is definitely fun to drive! It is very expensive to fix!

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  Great car to own/drive - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mike - June 19 - 11:23 pm

  The TDI wagon has been a great car - few problem, great mileage, comfortable, and it can carry all of the things you need. I installed a tow hitch on mine to drag a GTX 4TEC Sea Doo and it has no problems getting it out of the water. We do get some funny looks as the PWC is almost as big as the car. Our golden retriever has not offered any complaints about riding in it. It performs well for a diesel - no sluggishness from this car. You step on the gas and go!

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  Love my Jetta! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Renee - June 17 - 3:06 am

  We drive our car really hard, and I am impressed by how well it stands up to our driving habits. I drove it from PA to NY two times weekly during the school year. The interior on my Jetta is black so it shows hair (mostly dog), but aside from that I love the way the car is set up. Its comfortable and wonderful to drive. Ive had no serious mechanical or cosmetic issues with the car thus far (I need to replace a side mirror due to rust and a piece on the undercarriage due to how low the car is). I really love this car and would recommend it to anyone who does lots of driving and wants to be comfortable and sporty at the same time.

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  The Poor Mans BMW my butt! - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JorgesVWNightmare - June 15 - 10:00 am

  This car has been one nightmare after another. I have a love hate relationship with this car. It is fun to drive and the engine and the transmission have been good, but everything from windows, to ac compressors have blown in this car, and the rate for fixing this car is almost as high as working on a BMW. Come to think of it, for what I spend on fixing this car, I could have bought a BMW. I love the way this car dirves and handles, but I hate the tempermental features this car has, windows, cruise control knobs, a/c buttons shking loose. A poor man simply cant afford a VW, next time I wont buy the imitation.

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  2001 VW Jetta - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By J. Cooper - June 15 - 8:46 am

  I have had nothing but problems with electrical system, recalls, clutch problems and general unpredictability in what might go wrong next! I definitely wouldnt buy another VW after the problems Ive encountered with this model.

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  So Far So Good - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By DJ - June 15 - 6:33 am

  I bought my car on July 30th in Minnesota, and drove it 350 miles over the weekend, and 900 miles back to Colorado yesterday. Im coming off of a BWM 328xi lease, so this is a step back in many ways, but BMW is too expensive right now. They wanted $30k for a buyout! For less than $19k, so far Im feeling really good. I got Black, and I like the exterior styling. With tinted windows, its a sharp car. I also like the tan leatherette interior - nice contrast to the Black. The quality of the cabin is excellent. Performance is pretty darn close to my 328xi from 0 to about 40, but then it lags the BMW. And I miss 6 speeds. Overall, a solid car, but will it go in the snow?