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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  2000 Jetta - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By SpotsChicago - October 21 - 10:00 am

  My favorite car Ive ever owned so far. Id keep it indefinitely (unusual for me) if the gas mileage was better. Id return to VW if they can get the mileage up!

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  Ich liebe mine Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Thomas Witte - October 21 - 10:00 am

  Two words, "Love it". I was going to go with the base model 2.0 or the 1.8T but after test driving this wolf in sheeps clothing I knew what I had to do. I get the biggest kick out of people pulling up next to my unassuming Jetta and revving their engines. The next thing you know Im doing 40 MPH and just getting ready to shift into second. :) All the while I can hear them behind me struggling to keep up. The accelleration in the GLI is quite surprising. Be it first gear off the line, or third gear while getting on the highway... Just try it, youll love it.

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  TDI lives up to billing - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By LovinTDI - October 19 - 5:53 pm

  We have owned our YDI Jetta for 2 months and have nothing but great things to say about it. The mileage has been 42 MPG average with about 60/40 highway/city driving. Neither my wife or I really try too hard with the mileage so I feel that those are good numbers. The car itself is very comfortable and has many creature comforts not seen in other "Fuel Misers". We went through Costco Auto Buying Program which was very stress free and we got dealer invoice which with the $1300 tax credit is less then a similarly equipped Prius and no batteries to worry about down the road. We are x3 VW owners and have had good lluck with the reliability so well see in a few years and 100000 mi.

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  GLX Wagen - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By tubs - October 18 - 2:00 am

  Since bought as demo with 4k, front roters have been replaced, cupholder non-functional, power roof adjusted, then would not close completely, and the transmission is absolutely horrible, in that it upshifts too quickly when starting from a stop, then downshifts abruptly just to keep up a moderate acceleration. During this, the RPM jumps back and forth from 1500 to over 3k. Dealer has told me twice that the tranny is normal, but in over 500,000 miles and a lot of vehicles, I have never driven such a strange transmission. Next is to the VW rep, I guess, or lemon suit.

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  Sick ride - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By 1919-eternal - October 17 - 8:10 pm

  I bought my Jetta in October, and I love it. Theres not one thing that I dislike on it. It handles great, and has pretty decent power for just being a 4 cylinder.

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  TDI Jetta, family, work equal fun - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By gary - October 17 - 5:23 pm

  When my 91 Olds 98 decided to go to greener fields after 233,000 miles, it forced me to consider another vehicle. I drove the Honda Civic and attempted to drive a new Toyota Hybrid, none were available, thankfully. We have had the new TDI for 10 days now, I must say it has been a pleasure to drive. It drives well at high speeds. Around town the most difficult part of driving is keeping within the speed limit. Its styling is mostly European, it has excellent build quality, and a cool diesel sound (the Harley of cars?). Over my first 1,000 miles, I averaged 36.26 mpg. I only wish this car came in hatchback.

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  Minor things turns into STRESS makers - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jettajason - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I have owned my Vw all of its life. I also had to get the windows reinstalled with the "metal clips" instead of the cheap plasic ones that Mexico put in. That was the first trip to the shop June 02, second time was last year...transmission seemed to start slipping, they reset the trans computer and was running great for 4 weeks and started it again,went to the shop about 3wks ago(9/04)to get oil changed and complained about the brakes making a loud squeeking noise, (tech said nothing wrong) still doing it and it feels sometimes like it sputters when I put it in drive,(tech found nothing wrong as well. Power seat ate its plug for the motor,going to the shop tomorrow for the 8 things on my list

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  JockinJetta - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JockinMyJetta - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I absolutley LOVE this car! Before this, i was driving a Ford f250 and it was just too big and very poor on gas and now i have this cute, little car that gets grrrrreat gas mileage and the interior, exterior, just everything is wonder ful about this car! muah i love it!

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  very fun driving car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By w.h.r. - October 16 - 10:00 am

  this car is awesome to drive. there were only so many made. it gets extremely good fuel milage, even when it is driven like it is on the autobahn (he,he,he).everyone wants to know what it is, we get lots of compliments and questions about its performance.they say it looks as if it is going 100 miles an hour just sitting still.

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  2014 Jetta SE 1.8 - 2014 Volkswagen Jetta
  By reminder - October 16 - 8:29 am

  Picked up the car just before Thanksgiving. Covered 800 miles thus far. Handles well, but not a sports car. Has that tight feeling of quality that German cars are often described as having. New turbo motor & the return of the independent rear suspension is the main reason I selected the Jetta over a 14 Mazda 6. The power of the new motor works well being mated to the auto trans. Engine is extremely smooth and revs freely. Transmission is quick to up-shift in pursuit of MPGs, but also downshifts quickly if you need to pick up the pace. Interior is clean with simple controls. Heated seats have been handy with the vinyl seats and the cold temps in my neck of the woods.