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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  Not exactly "das auto" - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jonathan Streit - August 12 - 11:06 am

  When i first purchased this VW i only had the opportunity to drive it for 3 days until i was showing off the car to a friend when all of the sudden it wouldnt start due to a electrical ground connection. since then i have dumped over 8,500$ into this HOLE. repairs extremely expensive and often. i dont think i have driven for two weeks without the check engine light coming on for some god forsaken reason. If your buying VW think twice and really look at what your purchasing. have the car checked by a CERTIFIED VW mechanic or you WILL REGRET your decision. oh and by the way ever notice that strange... crayola crayon smell emitting from the air vents??. i moved on. you should too.

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  questioning my sanity - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By the me - August 12 - 10:00 am

  My first new car.I drove a 74 Beetle for 15 years and wanted another VW.I had the car 6 weeks when the on board computer went Dealer fixed for free after 2 visits. The rear breaks had to be replaced after 35,000 miles(I paid for that).There have been 3 recalls and last week the passenger window failed to go down or up .It also goes through 1/2 quart of oil a week.The dash lights for the A/C have gone out, the trunk will not open using the drivers console in the door, the drivers door will not always unlock with the key or clicker.many problems for a new car.

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  Happy jetta Owner - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Curl2k1 - August 8 - 2:00 am

  This is my first late model VW (all the others were Super Beetles) and I must say I am impressed. This car neve ceases to amaze me. The performance is outstanding and its VERY fun to drive. I bought this car in May and I already have almost 15,000 miles. I did have a small electrical problem today though. One of mt ignition coild went south. Ny dealer was done with it in an HOUR!!

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  Worst Decision Ive ever made! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Swagen - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I heard so many great reviews about the Jetta. So, I decided to get it, without a test drive (WHY!?). Im so dissatified with the car. Its very noisy, loud engine, doesnt accelerate quickly, no leg room, cup holders are a nusiance, defroster does nothing, etc....

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  My 2000 Silver Jetta GLX - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By RayJetta - August 6 - 5:50 pm

  Ive had quite a few minor issues which meant numerous trips to the dealer, but they were very nice and especially accomodating (they would arrange a VW for me to drive, etc) I love my jetta

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  Since I cant afford the A4 - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jettablue - August 6 - 11:53 am

  This truly is the next best or closest I can get to an A4 without feeling like I got the cheapest thing available. The value this car represents is incredible especially when looking at standard features. The ride is quite comparable to an Audi A4 although perhaps a bit softer.

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  Beware of the Jetta - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kerryk_21 - August 6 - 10:00 am

  You may look good driving a Jetta but you wont look so cute shelling out money every month for repairs. In less than two years I have replaced the cerpentine belt,the passenger window fell through the door,shocks and brakes, mass air flow filter, many small repairs, $40 oil changes and last but not least the catalytic converter. This single part costs around $1,000 and usually lasts the lifetime of most cars but not the jetta. The cup holder needs to be thrown out the window and I dont know what to do with the gunk that drips from the doors! Youve been warned!

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  jetta that is junk. - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mikey - August 6 - 8:23 am

  This car drives like a dream when it decides to run. I have had so much trouble trying to keep this thing running that I would never buy another. I had a 1968 beetle that never let me down like this car. They are Nice to look at but you never know where you will be stranded. I bought this car for my daughter but will not let her drive it for safety sake. Not even the Volkswagen dealers can fix these pieces of trash. I still owe 2 years on this thing so if I get rid of it I wiil be a lucky man.

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  Good run around car - 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Vw - August 3 - 8:39 pm

  This is a decent car I went from a Honda pilot to a Jetta people complain about acceleration but most compacts are slow and have CVT transmission anyway so it wont matter what compact there all slow. I like the interior and trunk space sad thing reason why I gave it 3 stars is the gas mileage is the same as my pilot. But this car does the everyday commuter job for getting around.

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  Really is Great for the price of good. - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By 2011jettaowner - August 3 - 2:15 am

  I purchased the car as a company car replacement and have really enjoyed it so far. I have yet to have any problems and after reading all of the reviews in the car magazines I hesitated to buy the car. It was my first VW and all I kept hearing is how they cheapened the car. I did not look at the "S" model just the SELs and I was impressed with what you get in this mid-size feeling car. It has more seat room than the Impala it replaced and all the features are really great. The car is fun to drive and feels really solid. I asked everyone I saw driving a VW whether they would buy one again and without a doubt they said they would. Very loyal customer base.