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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  Impressed - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By fan4neil - August 29 - 4:50 pm

  This is the first German car I have owned and I have only had it for a few days. I have owned about 30 vehicles and can say that I am really excited about this one. What is cool about the Jetta is that there are little touches that make you develop an emotional attachment to the car. I love the night time illumination. Had not seen that when I bought the car so the first time.....cool! I really like the handling and the seat heaters are great. It feels like a luxury car. I got a special edition that is metallic grey with the spoiler and very nice grey rims on low profile tires. It is a looked and I love seeing it everytime I need to go somewhere. The stereo is excellent and the 5spd is fun!

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  vroom--vroom - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By GiGi - August 29 - 2:00 am

  I have alwasys been a VW fan. This just builds my confidence in the maker. Solid handling and quickl acceleration make it a fun car to drive.

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  VW - Wow! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Daniel Shaffer - August 29 - 1:10 am

  It is all there, but the fun, well its actually a bit of fun, but not like my Miata. Wonderful sedan that can carry a foursome with clubs on a short trip. The ride, handling, fit and finish, everything is tight and first class. No problems and great mileage! Average about 40 mpg with mixed travel and about 50 mpg on a trip with cruise @ 80 mph. Had a SunBug back in the early 70s and this is not anything close. This is tight German craftsmanship at its best and a decent price point. We have two. I drive a manual and my wife drives an automatic. We will buy VW diesel again in about 15-20 years when these have 300K.

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  My first VW - and its a diesel! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Ashift30 - August 28 - 10:13 pm

  I never would have thought about buying anything but a Honda, but the interior drivers space is becoming poorly designed. A friend told me about the Jetta TDI. Wow! I am an aggressive driver. I drive in mixed traffic 100 miles a day and I get 37 mpg. On the highway, 41 mpg. My wife drives slower and gets 38/42+. We love this car! It is designed for a 6 driver. It seats a 66 person comfortably in the passenger seat. This is the first car I have actually enjoyed driving in quite some time. 26K in 8 months with no problems but one tire.

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  Honest Review - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tommy - August 28 - 9:00 pm

  The 2006 Jetta is a fun car to drive with good handling capabilities. The gas mileage is great compared to my SUV trade in. This is the main reason why I wanted a smaller car. I like the looks and the way the interior is designed. I have the navigation system which is ok. The radio sound system is weak and the satellite radio always seems to loose connection. The wind noise is very lound on the highway you need to really turn up the radio. The front seats are very uncomfortable. There is a bar in the drivers seat that hurts my rear end. This is the biggest negative for me.

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  Low miles, higher maintenance - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By eckert16 - August 26 - 7:06 pm

  Drove it cross country a week after purchase. Noticed excessive wind noise from front door seals. Dealership at destination changed seals, but no improvement in wind noise reduction. Less than 10K miles, and engine rotation sensor broke, again at 13k, again at 18k. Repeated issue till 22k. AC never was NEVER cool as is should be, charged AC, still not cold. AC expansion valve went bad and replaced it at 23k. AC still not cold as it should be. 24k the main AC coolant fan had to be replaced. AC still not cold Both front shocks collapsed at 24k, and needed replacing. Alternator pulley froze up at 24.5k and needed replacing. 25.5k and the engine temperature sensor went bad. It needed replacing.

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  German performance car with SUV utility! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ekimap - August 26 - 2:00 am

  I have a 2002 Jetta 1.8T Wagon with the 5-spd manual. Great car - its fast, quiet, comfortable, has an interior that looks and feels expensive, and handles well. PLUS it has the utility of a small SUV! What more could I want? Im the sort of person whose lifestyle would be well served by an SUV, but I wanted a real car with real performance and handling - this car fits the bill to a T.

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  Second Diesel - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jeff - August 26 - 2:00 am

  I originally purchased the Golf TDI, and returned it. Brought home the TDI Jetta with the DSG. This car comes standard with incredible features. Satellite Radio, and bluetooth are excellent. The DSG shifts very fast, and sport mode makes this car really go when the turbo kicks in. The Golf TDI was a lot more fun to drive, and the sport seats were much better than the leatherette offered in the Jetta. Gas Mileage is great, but the dealer recommended that I do not fill it up with Biodiesel. I have been averaging 30 to 34 mpg in city, and managed 43 mpg on the highway. Also purchased at 0.0% financing. Great Car, but not as much fun as as the Golf.

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  Um, no. Just no. - 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ZH - August 24 - 12:34 pm

  I wanted to own a European car. Well that was a huge mistake and I only had the car for a little over a year. The car was too cramped and it was just a boring car all around. Too many electrical problems. I had to constantly change the headlights and rewire fuses. The car was crappy in the snow and rain. I was under the impression that the car was suppose to get decent gas mileage, but it was crap compared to my Supra. If people want a reliable car, do NOT get European cars. Stick to the Japanese cars for reliability, comfort, technology, and safety.

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  A Lemon in a Cute Package - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Sabel - August 24 - 8:40 am

  This is my 32nd day with my new Jetta 2.5 and it`s been my worst experience in cars. Today, I was on my way to the car dealer, because Ive been having trouble with the breakes. I didnt make it. Starting off from an intersection (still in first gear) at 20 MPH, suddenly I found myself without brakes and crossed a total of 40 feet with my brakes completely applied. I stopped thanks to a safety rail. After that, I went to the dealer and the manager wasnt surprised; because a week before the accident I told the manager about the breakes. He explaind that the symptoms were normal of the ABS and if I still concerned at the 5,000 miles checkup and I should comment about it.