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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  No regrets! Great car! - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kraziman - January 18 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car new in 1998. It has always been very fun to drive. Despite its cramped rear seat, lack of good cup holders (seat adjustment levers hold sport bottles perfectly!), and its little quirks and rattles, I love this car and would do it all over again. It now has 64,000 miles on it and I would drive it cross-country. It still has awesome power with the VR6/5- speed combo. One tip, let VW install the CD changer. That was my only nightmare and it was because I took it to an after market place.

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  Awesome pocket rocket! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Erator - January 15 - 10:00 am

  I just got this Jetta, my first car to purchase on my own, I recently graduated from college. I love this car. My girlfriend has a 2000 Golf, and I loved the way VW does the interior on their cars, and the sporty exterior. Although I wanted a 300 series BMW or an Acura TL 04, my current budget couldnt handle the payments. I got a great deal on my Jetta, in Campanella White with the GLS trim, and some dealer custom 17" chrome wheels. Im loving it, since it has that BMWish look to it. If youre thinking about getting one, take a test drive and youll probably drive off on it.

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  WARNING!! DONT BUY THIS CAR!!!! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By italialife - January 15 - 7:51 am

  WOW, what a piece of garbage. I read the reviews before buying this piece of trash, but I thought, "eh, let me see for myself.." Im an idiot for doing this. What havent I replaced in this lemon, besides the frame and the engine? I bought the car for $3k with rusty fenders & a rusty chipped hood. Replaced both fenders & hood. It had some small dings, but no rust after that. I replaced the battery $210 ! I replaced the starter, coolant expansion tank, & a few other parts. I had invested a total of $1,728. I almost immediately but it back up for sale because is was beyond annoying to keep fixing little things. My wife hated when I chose to drive it over our other cars....The interior smell is atrocious, it smelled like a melted crayon constantly-- plus the interior is beyond cheaply constructed, which, if you happen to brush against, will smudge and ruin your clothes. The interior plastics were seriously made out to the strength of styrofoam cups. Though, peppy & fun to drive, do yourself a favor DONT BUY THIS CAR! I finally sold this car yesterday for $5k after trying for over 4 months! Making a $272 profit! I cant believe I didnt loose my [non-permissible content removed] on this car. After counting the cash, and after the kid left, my wife and I were literally dancing!

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  Love It! - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Frankie - January 13 - 12:20 pm

  I just bought this car a couple months ago, havent had it too long. My first vw. But i love it! Had to have two of the regulators replaced when i got it but no surprise by all the reviews i keep reading. The back right Bose speaker blew out. The clutch is starting to wear out too, but i think the owner before me drove dirty. So once i get a new clutch ill be running smooth again! Wish my car had the heated leather seats though..

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  Economical, and a pleasure to drive - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Florida Retiree - January 13 - 4:46 am

  The Jetta TDI delivers excellent mileage. Despite a tendency to be somewhat "lead footed," I have been averaging 38 mpg overall in stop-and- go city traffic and high-speed interstate driving. Furthermore, the Jetta is fun to drive. It handles like a sports car, and the TDI engine emits a deep-throated growl when you put the "pedal to the metal."

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  NEVER again - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By neveragain1209 - January 12 - 6:45 pm

  I had nothing but trouble with this car. I actually feel badly for the person who bought it after I traded it in.We were a VW family but that has come to an end. 64000 miles in 6 years and the motor was blowing black smoke. Always changed the oil, replaced several major parts. VW didnt care at all-called them and no resolve. Do no buy this car! Junk-wagon. Back to being a Ford family.

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  Awesome car - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By josh deeds - January 12 - 3:00 pm

  I love my jetta. I just bought a new Saturn VUE and love to continue to drive my Jetta. I have put over 120,000 miles on it. Ive taken it cross country 5 times round trip from San Diego to West Virginia and it keeps on going without any problems. As long as you change the oil and get a tune up regularly I believe it will last well into the 200,000 mark. I would recommend it to anyone who wants an economical and fun car with a lot of pick up and go.

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  AAAHHH!! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mad Jetta Owner - January 9 - 1:10 pm

  I bought my 2000 Jetta from a dealership in April. It was the biggest mistake of my life. I have had nothing but problems and Ive only had the car for 4 months! A week after I bought it, the headlights and dash board lights went out. Then about 2 weeks later my brakes starting making a horrible grinding noise. I brought it back into the dealership and they said there was nothing they could do about it because brakes were not covered under my 30 day warranty! About a month ago my brakes went out. I replaced them but my car still made the grinding noise. I brought my car back in and they told me my ABS modual went out. I plan to get rid of it as soon as I can. What a horribly built car!

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  Decent investment - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By michman247 - January 8 - 11:19 am

  I bought this car used, 2.0l, 5 speed manual, with under 95k miles. So far I havent had any problems and it runs great. Overall, the exterior and interior are fine, nothing to brag about although it is a little snug in the back. The car handles well, the power is what youd expect out of a 4 cylinder, 1st gear is almost worthless. As far as maintenance is concerned, I can do most of the basics easily but the more advanced fixes are not cheap. If you can find one that had the timing belt, water pump, tensioner and etc changed recently then youll save yourself a couple hundred dollars. If I had the choice again, Id probably purchase another VW.

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  Great features, terrible reliability. - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JohnJetta - January 7 - 10:36 pm

  If this car were more reliable, (or at all reliable), I would be completely satisfied with it. It has a great interior with plenty of useful features and a good design. I love the look of the outside as well. BUT, this car has been nothing but trouble since the day I got it. It is in the shop AT LEAST once a month, and repairs on German cars are expensive! The check engine light is basically on more than it is off. Make sure you have a lot of money to spare and an extra car if you decide to buy a Volkswagen!