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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  Love the car, but not VW service - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ENC driver - August 16 - 4:33 pm

  I bought my Jetta GLS TDI new in 2001 and it now has 197,000 miles and is going strong. I commute 150 miles round trip daily, so I wanted a comfortable car with good fuel mileage - I have been well pleased. Im considering buying another one, but want to hang on to this one. My only problems have been with VW service. I used to take it to the dealer since its difficult to find a non-VW dealer mechanic, but have regretted the inconvenience and the cost. When I contacted VW last summer after a dealer in SC had my car for 3 weeks and continued to give me the run-around, VW was not helpful and borderline rude. So, Ill keep my TDI and maybe buy another one, but find an independent mechanic.

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  greatest car my son went nuts over - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Shadi - August 14 - 10:00 am

  awsome acceleration, love the new lights great automatic transmition nice fabric,great radio, perfect.

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  Great Car... - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By scalif20@aol.com - August 14 - 10:00 am

  My jetta has served me well but have had a couple little issues with it...Whats up with the noise while the car is being turned???Need to get it into the shop...and what about it being really loud at 75mph and up...its screaming for a 6th gear. But the Car is fun and lots of compliments...especially abuot the dash and outisde appearance. I do love the car but my eyes are turning towards that 2003 Toyota 4 Runner

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  Luv My TDI!!!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By fresadulce - August 14 - 10:00 am

  This car has far exceeded my expectations....Downgrading from an 01 Jetta glx V6, I was expecting to be a bit disappointed. Not So! Although I do miss my heated leather bun warmers!

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  Drivers Wanted - Mechanics Needed - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By lithia scumbags - August 13 - 10:06 am

  My 2000 Volkswagen Jetta TDI is the worst car Ive ever owned. It has had lots and lots of problems with the front end, brakes etc... the list is endless. Dont make the same mistake I made, buy a Honda or Toyota. I spent all my free time at the dealership, waiting for the latest excuse why my car wont run right, but how there is nothing wrong with the car.

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  2010 Jetta LE - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By troverman - August 11 - 7:23 am

  Bought this car to replace my 2000 Jetta GLS. The 5-cylinder engine is very smooth and has plenty of power, especially above 3000 RPM. The 5-speed in this car is light years ahead of the 5-speed in my old Jetta, in terms of shift feel. The car, for the money, really is beautiful inside and out. Very high-quality, well designed interior, nice paint and tight panel gaps on the outside. Lots of features you wont get on any other car in this class, like auto up-down windows on every window, nice switchblade key fobs, standard heated seats. I really love this car.

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  Wish I could get rid of this POC - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Unhappy Jetta Owner - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Various problems...last of which was a crack in the engine block, which renders car undriveable until entire engine replaced...cost for this would be $2500 (for a USED ENGINE); $7100 new. Car is not even worth that. -fuel nozzle flap retainer falling into the fuel filler neck a few weeks after buying the car. Fuel tank replaced. -CEL (Check engine light) started coming on (on and off). Dealer said that they did not put the fuel tank on correctly. Fuel tank replaced again. -Rear breaks wore out very early. Same with tires. CEL comes on AGAIN. This time, they replaced the Mass Air Flow sensor.

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  thumbs up for the 2004 vw jetta - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By apropos104 - August 8 - 2:00 am

  i am on my second jetta and have been pleased...i will continue to buy vw cars because my parents and i had nothing but good luck with them (they have a 2001 passat).

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  Just bought one - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Doty - August 8 - 2:00 am

  The new Jetta is a great car. I am very pleased. I really enjoy the smooth ride and it is seems exceptionally roomy considering how little it actually is compared to other cars of its class. It is well designed inside and out. Its great design doesnt stop under the hood. It is very user friendly and clearly distinguishes what the average owner needs to check and what the average owner needs to leave alone.

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  Jetta wagon 1.8T GLS 5M - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jhilton14 - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I love my Jetta. Its a blast to drive, it gets good mileage, and its cargo area is pretty big. So far (knock on wood) in about 7300 miles, I havent had any problems with the car at all. I would highly recommend this wagon to anyone who needs a wagon, but still likes to drive.