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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  Software Problem for Jetta CA, MA and NY - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jetta05 - June 12 - 9:26 pm

  As all of you who own a 2004 or 2005 model year Volkswagen Jetta sold in California and other states, the car has a unique problem that causes it not to start smoothly in the morning. I found numerous complaints filed to the National Highway Transporation Safety Administration for the 2004 Jetta. The jerk start is caused the sudden engagement of transmission when the brake lamp is turned off. Until then, there is no drive power supplied to the drive shaft. Dont you feel it? Other than that this is a nice car.

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  An Item to consider - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By tenncvol - June 11 - 9:06 am

  I like my TDI very well however potential buyers need to be aware of one drawback - availability of diesel fuel. Only about one (non-truck stop) station in five has a diesel pump, and it is often off to the side and not under a canopy so larger vehicles can access it. The fuel filler nozzle is frequently too large for the TDIs small opening (Why VW?) requiring holding the nozzle and slowly filling enough to get to a better pump. Could not recommended this car unless you are willing to endure this inconvenience

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  great great mpg - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By leo1979 - June 10 - 9:43 am

  great car it sips diesel great mileage i drive 236 miles a day with only a problem with the a/c sent it to shop 3 times different shops

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  Solid, fun, different. - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Fahrenvergnügen - June 7 - 6:26 pm

  Ive had the Jetta for 3 years and am very satisfied. Its a good sized vehicle for me and the type of driving I do: trips around town, sometimes with people and things, and the occasional road trip. After 48K miles, Im hard pressed to find any faults at all. Its reliable, fun & sensible, but not boring and bland like the Asian competition. The 5spd and 2.5 motor have plenty of torque to compete off the line if you are a skilled rower. The interior build quality is Teutonic solid, ergonomically correct for the driver. Pax might find it a bit "stiff" (mine have, but I dont care, because Im having fun driving). Looking forward to at least 100K unless I upgrade to an Audi before then.

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  So glad I waited to get the 2008! - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By pprd - June 6 - 9:46 am

  This is a fantastic car. I previously owned a 2000 Passat V6 GLX, and the 08 Jetta is just as big and roomy. I really enjoy the +20 boost in horsepower (2007 was 150, 2008 is 170). Its a nice balance between performance and gas mileage. I certainly wouldnt want any less muscle, though. Road noise is minimal and the car feels solid in tight turns and quick maneuvers. I love the 4 year bumper-to-bumper warranty and road-side assistance. The exterior looks sophisticated and classy - head and shoulders above the competitors in its class.

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  VERY Disappointed - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By amdsgd - June 6 - 2:00 am

  I was so psyched to have gotten a Jetta. It looks cool, has a snappy pick up, and a great stereo. But I was disappointed. The random play on multiple disc changer never worked, manual seat backs difficult to adjust, handle for the glove box fell off, drivers door inside handle peeling, back seat drink holder broke second time used. Have had nothing but trouble since warranty expire. Both window lifts broke and the locks are still messed up from the shotty repair. The engine light continues to go on and off at random. And its currently in for repairs of unknown origin. Terrible, terrible service. Cant wait to dump it and get something reliable!

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  So Far So Good - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JF - June 6 - 1:26 am

  We did a lot of research when the dust settled it was down to the new Ford Focus, the Honda Civic Hybrid and the Insight. Why the Jetta TDI well it doesnÂ’t feel like a small car has a nice ride with lots of safety features that goes a long way on a tank of fuel. Just hope the dependability will be as good as the driving experience has a lot of punch that comes in handy when needed. ItÂ’s not a luxury car but itÂ’s nicely equipped youÂ’ll not think of it as little car. Heritage VW of South AL didnÂ’t try all the dealer sells tricks nice to deal with, thank you.

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  Good car - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Ralph - June 4 - 6:47 pm

  Easy to drive around town with lots of giddy up!

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  Only car Ill buy - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By dean - June 3 - 8:13 am

  In 3 years Ive put 90,000 miles on it. I do not get below 500 miles per tank average 40 mpg city and as high as 58 hwy. There is a relief button inside filler neck of fuel tank to allow more fuel. Ive gone 758 miles on one tank of fuel. Memphis TN to Madison Wi straight! Only problem with it has been glow plugs. Luckly I live in Ca so Im not going to replace them. Other than that, expect to pay $900 every 80K for a timing belt. Im getting ready to have 2nd one installed soon. I will buy a tdi again without a doubt.

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  VDub in Da House... - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Spidey - June 2 - 10:20 pm

  The wife wanted to try something different this time, taking a detour from the domestic norm, and the Jetta sure didnt disappoint! Blue metallic graphite, 6-speed manual tranny, Sport and Protection package, 17" Goal wheels, and the Ipod media interface. Better gas mileage than previous car, $1300 tax credit... even the insurance was less! Whats not to like? When my Honda finally "gives up the ghost", I would love to have one of these, myself!