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:

• 

  Buying this Jetta was a big mistake!! - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mark_louis - October 8 - 10:00 am

  It seamed like a nice car at first.. I bought it used with 34kmi heres what it cost me in the last 5kmi. Broken glove box hinge $300. MAP sensor problem $350. Ignition coil $690. I still have transmission shift problems, a water leak on the drivers door and a trunk light that doesnt work.

• 

  Born to commute - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By J Ozero - October 2 - 10:00 am

  I drive my TDI around 250km a day and have had not a single problem in my first 55000km. Also took a long road trip down the westcoast camping and was pleasantly surprised that the car held all our camping gear and then some. Have and will continue to recommend this car to everyone!!

• 

  99 Jetta GLS VR6 - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kgbarlow - September 30 - 8:46 pm

  Fun to drive and looks hot, but the reliabilty is poor. Since it is the first year of the new model, the kinks were not worked out. Numerous problems with electronics. Yet, it is a sporty drive.

• 

  Keys - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jill Klassy - September 29 - 9:48 pm

  Just bought my first VW Jetta. Overall I like the car. Of course my daughter lost one keyfob at school almost immediately. Extremely frustrating that VW dealers charge $250 for another key including programming. Thats completely insane and no other locksmith or reliable service is able to provide at a lower cost. VW SHAME ON YOU!!!! This alone makes me not want to be loyal to VW and not feel good about talking about VW. I will not buy VW again.

• 

  update........ - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By resipsa - September 28 - 2:36 am

  Have now had the car for approximately 10 months, just under 15K kilometres. So far, no problems, though it did need the DSG transmission flash. Warranty on trans. extended by VW as well. I look forward to driving it daily. Has plenty of grunt and hugs the corners like its on a rail. It just feels pleasant to drive, very ergonomic and everything makes sense how its situated. Good cargo capacity and has stood up to two young kids well. The diesel engine is a pleasure and the mileage, as far as I can gauge, is great. Its parked outside during the day and has never failed to start in a Calgary winter. Would gladly purchase again.

• 

  Nothing but frustration - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jessica - September 27 - 4:50 pm

  This vehicle is enjoyable to drive and not bad on the design. However, as far as quality, I have had nothing but problems since I drove it off the lot. Between the recalls and the other problems Ive had with it, it is in the shop more than on my driveway. The list of problems is extensive ranging from the latch on the trunk to the wiring and the brakes. I would not recommend purchasing this vehicle.

• 

  My Sporty Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Louis Rocah - September 27 - 7:23 am

  My 2006 Volkswagen Jetta GL is surprisingly sporty, nimble, and has plenty of power,

• 

  never again will I buy a VW - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By michele in MA - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Bought my Jetta in Apr 02,by May I was in for service,the passenger door was rattling.In June my wiper blade had to be adjusted,it was hitting the side of the car.In July my ignition coil failed.In Dec. the ignition coil failed again.In Aug 2003,my passenger side window fell into the door.When the window was repaired they also fixed the engine coil again, since VW put out a campaign to install the new engine coils.Sorry VW you didnt fix the issue with the engine coils!By Sept the engine coil failed again.You definitely dont get what you paid for with this vehicle.My advice is buy a Honda they are better built.

• 

  Almost 50 miles per Gallon WOW - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By GrGrosskopf - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Sporty and comfortable, this handy little car is not compromising on room. It handles like a Porsche, yet has the luxory of a caddy. The blue interior lights are pleasant to the eye, so easy to see in the dark. I took my TDI all the way from Santa Maria, CA to Medford, Oregon on ONE TANK OF FUEL, averaging 48 to 50 miles per gallon. You never have to smog the TDI, and the exaust is cleaner than a gasoline engine. AND SO QUIET for a deisel engine! It handles like a dream. There is no Glow Plug to wait on when you warm it up. TDI has come a long way

• 

  Jetta Fun - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By cf - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This IS the perfect car if you are looking for excellent handling, a wonderful ride, and a car that is a joy to drive at a reasonable price. I love German engineering!!!