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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  Couldnt be Happier - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By bobpeller - May 22 - 4:40 am

  This is our third Volkswagan. We owned an old Volks Rabbit (year unkown), a 1994 Passat Wagon and now a 2002 Jetta 1.8T. The Jetta is fun to drive. The automatic/manual transmission was a big selling point. In addition the leather interior, sunroof, and mansoon sound options added more enjoyment to a car that has all safty features strandard and a robus standard warrenty.

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  Im an SUV convert - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By suvnolonger - May 22 - 2:00 am

  After 10+ years of driving an SUV I made the smartest decision I could make and started looking to a more economical car. I checked out hybrids and looked at small economy cars, finally I walked to the dealership next door to my work and looked at a TDI VW Jetta. I bought it a few days later and have been using 100% biodiesel in it ever since. It runs great, I get about 39-45 miles per gallon, its quiet and it isnt stinky! I cant say enough about this vehicle, its great. I just hope that other manufacturers follow suit and build some diesel vehicles for the US. All the other countries in the world can buy almost any car made in a diesel why not the US? Go drive one, its worth it!

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  Great Little wagon - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By wagon wheels - May 21 - 3:20 am

  Great Wagon without looking too much like a wagon. Feels sporty, very comfortable, awesome touch screen stereo. Has the new Jetta look inside and out. Feels very solid. Excellent gas miles, just enough room without having to get a huge SUV. Do not over looked this hidden gem.

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  I love my GLX - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By christi4673 - May 19 - 2:00 am

  I love this car...it is fun to drive and is really peppy. It is such fun, after driving mine, my sister, brother, and 2 co-workers went out and bought one. It has had the typical VW window regulator problem, but it was no big deal to fix. (HINT - dont go to the dealer unless it is under warrenty!)

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  I Love This Car! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jason Kahapea - May 19 - 2:00 am

  Very safe, very solid. Drives smooth allows you to switch to manual transmission on the fly. Zero to 60 in manual in mid 6 seconds at 5800 RPM. My neighbor with a 2001 stocked Corvette loves this car also.

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  FIRST VW PROVES COMFORTABLE, QUIET, QUICK - 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
  By openwheeler - May 17 - 5:04 am

  Picked it up 5/31 and this Candy White with Corn silk/Black accent interior has proven to be a handsome, comfortable second family car. Critics of the interior materials were too harsh. The leatherette is more attractive and comfortable than we expected. Just returned from a round trip to PGH. My 6 foot plus son did not find the rear seats tiring or cramped. Very smooth ride and honestly quieter than our Accord on the road. The engine is a bit "throaty" but the slight rumble doesnt sound weak or cheap. Solid feel. In S mode you get all the kick you need for passing fun. Low end torque takes a bit of getting used too but that comes quickly. Confident handling. Touch screen radio is cool.

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  I love my car....but - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Phatmal - May 14 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car used in 98 and loved driving it from the get go. She has a lot of spirit and really likes to be driven on the open road. Unfortunately, shes not been a cheap car to own. Most recently (last 12 months), Ive had to replace the sunroof cassette ($700), the door locks $400...they actually fell out of the car!), and the starter ($600) and had to have the vacuum system fixed ($100). Luckily I havent been stranded anywhere! Not only that but there are little things that break in the interior that are a pain. I love driving this car and am so attached to her but Im considering getting rid of her cause Im afraid of whats going to break next.

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  Love my Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Harmony - May 14 - 10:00 am

  Fun is the operative word. What a pleasure to drive. The interior is a little cramped, but it handles like a sports car and does have room for four. No rattles or funny noises, but have experienced small nuisances such as burnt out tail light and windshield wipers that need adjustment too often. Decent gas mileage, but it uses premium fuel. Bottom line, Id buy it again - love the car!

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  Just a good car - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By pthomps - May 13 - 12:46 pm

  Bought it brand new in 2001. Sure, the window lifts were quick to go out, and there were several other minor recalls, but it keeps on ticking. I use it primarily as a commuter car, driving about 40 miles a day. Love the mpg, love the styling. Im just now approaching 100k miles. I sunk $1,500 into it recently for preventative maintenance (incl. New timing belt), but consider it a good investment. Interior wear and tear has taken its toll - the glove box arm is broken, as is the arm rest latch, but I can live with that. The car looks great, is fun to drive (every once in a while is quite sluggish in 1st gear), but has been a great car.

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  Its got moxie. - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Fitz Collings - May 9 - 10:00 am

  This car looks new, feels new, and drives new after 2 years. I drive it in upstate new york and it wrecks the snow and ice thanks to great traction control. I go to Cornell University and I can haul all of my apartment stuff in one car load, including big awkward stuff like my bike, skis, and TV. The car is fast as hell and the sport package really helps it stay firmly rooted to the pavement.