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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  Reliable & Fun to drive sedan. - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By phani9 - October 15 - 2:16 am

  I never had any issue with my Jetta in these 2years. It has been fun to drive. Mileage is not bad. Its a very good small family sedan with HUGE trunk space. I easily fit 3 big luggages into it.

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  I love my TDI - 2014 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Aron - October 14 - 7:54 pm

  I bought this car with less than 20 miles on it when I traded in my 2002 1.8T Jetta GLS with a 5 speed manual. I just passed the the 73,000 mark, and havent had any reliability. Unlike my old one, my current Jetta does have plastic trim on the doors and trunk hinges that rob trunk space, neither are the end of the world. It also isnt quite as fun to drive. It does, however, have a great build quality and provides a better overall driving experience. The seats are more comfortable, and there is little more refinement in handling which more than makes up for the slightly less sporty feel. Both mean I can drive longer without feeling fatigued. The manual gearbox feels just like my old one, but with one extra gear. It is still fun to drive and more so than any other hybrid or diesel in its class (according to car magazine reviews). Before I had the emissions fix, which only had a slight impact on my fuel economy, I was averaging close to 50 miles per gallon in warm weather with mostly highway driving without even trying. If it was pure highway driving in warm weather I could get above 50. The cabin and trunk are larger than my old Jetta, and it looks and feels more like a mid-sized car than a compact. On the occasions when I carry more than one other person, there is a lot less complaining about space. At $25,000, what other car is as fun to drive, spacious and fuel efficient my Jetta? The interior and exterior styling has been criticized by many, but I actually like it better than its competitors. It is understated and doesnt scream "look at me" like a narcissistic teenager. As for creature comforts, it still has an impressive Fender audio system, Bluetooth, heated seats, sunroof, rear view camera, heated outside mirrors, and a soft touch dashboard. I dont need all of the other "techy" stuff. If I were to do it again, Id by the same car. Im sold on VW for life. The only reason I didnt give it five stars is because of two slight, intermittent noises: a squeaky noise when the air conditioning fan is set to "2" and a rattle in the dashboard. The latter may or may not have arisen after I hit a deer a few years ago.

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  More Safe, More Fun, More Reliable! :) - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Megan - October 13 - 9:06 pm

  There is a reason why the Jetta is the #1-selling European car in the US. I first owned a 2000 Jetta (same as my 2002); this car saved my life and was fun and reliable every step of the way. I have owned my 2002 GLS VR6 sedan since new, and I love my baby to pieces. The standard safety features - ABS, 8 airbags, safety cell construction - cannot be beat. The time- tested VR6 engine is an absolute blast to drive. I can tell you in 100% honesty that I have had ZERO mechanical, electrical, or other reliability issues with this car - NONE. I am fully confident in Jettas and I never plan on buying anything but VWs. If you pressed me for one complaint, Jettas dont come with power seats, which is not a big deal to me.

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  Looks Arent Everything - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By wowziewoo - October 13 - 2:00 am

  While this car looks fantastic and drives well, it is very cheaply made. My new car has had its engine replaced and now the transmission is failing. Ive had a million things inside break: the armrest, the interior lights, the side mirror defrosters, the vanity lights...even the moulding on the outside of the car came off--I discovered its held in place with double-sided tape!

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  Love My Jetta! - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Christina Dresen - October 13 - 1:26 am

  I love my Jetta! I never cared much about a vehicle besides its dependability to get me back and forth to work and my kids to school. This car is a great smooth ride. For being a compact car, it feels extremely roomy. Anyone that has ridden in the back seat has commented on how much room they have for their legs. The trunk is incredibly spacious. The only problem I have is that the ride is so smooth that I often dont watch my speed and that turbo is fast! Of course that is user error! I love the turbo engine for getting on the freeway. I also think that the sight lines are great in this car. Some of the other compact cars that I had driven had smaller windows and I felt somewhat claustrophobic. Extremely satisfied with this car!

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  just dont go to the "stealership" - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ghostwes - October 12 - 10:13 pm

  Ive seen alot of reviews here knocking the mk5 jetta, this is the 4th VW Ive had so far (Ive had a 1987 jetta, a 1999.5 jetta, this vehicle, and I also have a 2008 GTI as well) Ive never had major problems with any of these cars. compared to the mk2 and mk4 Ive owned the mk5 is a deff step up from VWs previous powertrains and designs. when I do need service however, I know better than to go to the stealership when I have a phonebook with several german car speciality repair shops. Always go to them first. they can usually get any parts you need (besides keys, key fobs, and programming keys) and they can usually get parts that are better than stock.

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  I still love my Jetta :) - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By sistert - October 10 - 11:36 pm

  This is a follow-up from the initial review I wrote on July 12, 2004 when my Jetta was almost brand new. I have not had any problems with my Jetta thus far. (Ive driven about 26,000 miles.) The gas mileage is fantastic for long road trips on the interstate where you can drive a steady 65-75 mph. I most often drive my car short distances with a stop sign every block and the gas mileage is very low.

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  disappointed - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By posvw - October 9 - 9:14 am

  In June, 2014 I took my 2006 VW TDI with 112K mi to the dealer for a timing belt change. I also needed a fuel filter change. Did I ever get a shock - not just sticker shock! When the service guy first called me it was to tell me my fuel filter was BLACK and that meant my injectors were shot. He also said that with this model, this year car, that there was a 50/50 chance that the cam shaft and lifting arms would need to be replaced. He explained that VW had designed these poorly with dissimilar metals and that they fail. Sure enough - a bill to the tune of $4k. So I sent 2 letters to the VW Customer Care center - Ive never heard I apologize so many times in my life! Run far and fast

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  dont buy one - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By lkennedy - October 8 - 4:26 pm

  2002 jetta. 1) calaber went bad 384.00 each 2) engine light twice 3) sensor switch twice 4) radio stopped working 5) tail lights burning out 6) head lights shut off while driving had to use hi beams to see. Its like non stop problems. Im trading it in. Never again with VW. Wish I listened.

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  VW Farfrumworking - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tarrytown - October 8 - 10:00 am

  I will never buy another VW. My transmission went at 97000 and had a costly engine coil replacement at 85,000. After 2 years of owning the car I have replaced virtually everything. The suspension has been a nightmare and the service I have received from VW has been even worse. I have experienced numerous electrical problem, the ride stinks and with the cost of repairs I could be driving a Bentley for less. Unfortunately, its been a big disappointment for me.