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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  Good car for young drivers - 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Niels Pace - December 17 - 11:39 pm

  Bought this car used for my children to use. Have had minor reliability issues but easily fixed. The most disappointing is the interior - I was brought up in the era of the Golf Gti and owned several of them, have always loved VWs and their solidity and good finish, inside and out. Unfortunately with this generation of Jetta they screwed up during the manufacture and cut the headlining material too short, so it is overtensioned on the foam moulding and comes away. The car is only 5 years old and roof lining is falling off! Obviously VW are completely uninterested in standing by their product and fixing this.

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  Excellent, Fast, Reliable, Looks Great - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By bryans - December 17 - 6:26 am

  As you can see, I have an 03 Jetta 1.8T Tiptronic 5-speed I bought with 28k...now has 91k 2.5 years later. Ive owned four late model Cadillacs (two DeVilles and two Eldorados). I was so disappointed in the Northstar V8 and the very cheap interior in all of them that I decided I would buy imported only now on. Boy, am I glad I did!!! First of all, the 1.8T is strong, reliable, FAST, and easy to work on and upgrade. The interior is sleek and leather is high quality and durable. Monsoon audio is awesome, but better with a subwoofer. The exterior is very sexy and stylish. The 17" wheels are great, especially with a good set of Z- rated performance tires. Too many good things to list.....

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  Problems - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JETWHITE727 - December 15 - 2:00 am

  This is my first VW and to be honest it will be my last. I have had no major problems with the car , however a number of minor issues. I think anyone who is looking to buy VW should look around before buying.

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  The Oil Consumption King - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Sabre01 - December 15 - 2:00 am

  We had our Jetta GL since May 2000. We babied this car. My wife loved this car. All maintenance was done on time. Then it starts to use oil. It used about 1 quart per 1000 miles! At first I thought it was a fluke. Then I checked the internet for other owners that may have the problem. This seems to be common with the 2.0 Litre engine. I even found a web site that has the Technical Bulletin (provided to dealers from VW)that instructs the mechanic how to deal with complaints of excessive oil consumption.

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  Fly Jetta - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By George Spicer - December 14 - 11:13 am

  I have a 2000 VW Jetta and the performce is good, but the motor can put out so much more power. How do i know? I have a stg-3 turbo kit in mine, and Im puting down about 260 hp the ground with the factory engine.

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  Overall very good - but water leak. - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Anonymous - December 13 - 3:11 pm

  Panoramic, Goal wheel upgrade, and Ipod hookup. dGoal wheels are great if clean your own car. Payed premium for diesel and fuel economy. Dont know if hype and economy is worth paying sticker. Had a massive water leak from sunroof drain hose that leaked into spare tire pan. A couple inches of water in the pan and your windows will never defog. Had to talk the dealer into a loaner for that issue. Pleather is underwhelming. Might be nice after sand volleyball league and mtn. biking next summer. Still miss the leather. Seats hurt your back and butt on long drives. Does not sound or smell like the old diesels. To find the diesel pump, look for the oil slick at the gas station.

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  Solid car with extraordinary mileage - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Anonymous - December 13 - 2:06 pm

  What car gets better than the posted EPA averages in both city and hwy mileage? Jetta TDI, of course. I had a diesel Rabbit back in the late 70s but this car is light years ahead of that. Solid, peppy, quiet and fast. We constantly play "beat the mgps" and post our success to the web. You can get in the high 60s for mpgs if you go easy on the gas pedal but when you need acceleration even up a hill you got it.

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  MPG & Fun to Drive - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By hudld - December 13 - 1:04 pm

  Bought a White/tan Jetta TDI 4-door, w/DSG transmission, sunroof, 17" wheels & iPod int. kit. Paid $24,853 inclg destination (& free matts!). Traded-in a (German-made) 2-seater convertible, 6 cyl, that took prem fuel. First fill-up (combined hwy/city driving) yielded 38mpg and price of fuel was $2.69. Thought Id miss my 6cyl vehicle, but havent noticed; great acceleration with this vehicle, plenty of room, and a great touch- screen radio! Ive also owned an Audi A-4 and this is as nice/nicer and a lot cheaper & quicker.

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  New VW Household - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Anonymous - December 13 - 12:01 pm

  My wife and I bought a 2009 Jetta SE last April and were very impressed. After much deliberation, I decided to give up my Infiniti M45 in exchange for a TDI Sportwagen. I find myself defending this move to my friends on a daily basis and truly believe it was a great move. Double the gas mileage, great stereo/navigation system with hard drive, and panoramic sunroof were the biggest selling features. The tax credit was a nice bonus too. It is not a hot rod, wont turn heads, and has some odd quirks, but is a really great car overall. I have averaged about 39 MPG over the first 2,000 miles. No problems to this point with either of our new VWs.

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  TDI Sportwagen - sporty & great mileage - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Anonymous - December 13 - 10:36 am

  Have had TDI wagon for a few weeks and absolutely love it. Amazing combination of horsepower/torque and gas mileage. Really fun to drive. Terrific stereo. I bought the sunroof option and it brings a lot of light in, especially into the back seat. Auto options are terrific: can have economy in standard Drive, switch to sporty in S, and downshift manually with Tiptronic.