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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  Watch out for Certified USED-Jettas - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By rtadams1 - May 2 - 10:00 am

  My car is the reason why certified used cars should be included in the Lemon Law. But beware... they are NOT! With 3000 left on the certified warranty my car has been in the shop every month since purchase. Included..5 window regulator replacemnts, 2 Mass airflow meters, 3 transmission removals/adjustments, and 25 days in the shop within a year! what a P.O.S...

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  Reverse problem - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Colleen Carney - May 1 - 2:23 pm

  I purchased this car today and everything was fine until I tried to get it in reverse. My daughter and I drive manual transmissions, and have never had any trouble until this one. I learned from our good friend Barry that you push down on the gear shift to get it in reverse! I was ready to take the car back to the dealer tomorrow!

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  No Fun to Drive - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By MrBill - April 30 - 6:03 pm

  Right off the lot I my Jetta needed a wheel alignment. The car moves from side to side going down the road after the alignment. I am being told that is the way the car drives. I have received bad customer service to the point that nobody cared. Now it is three weeks later and the sunroof leaks. This car has 3,000 miles on it. Look twice before buying one.

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  Lots of Pep - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Volkswagen Girl - April 30 - 5:56 pm

  Very comfortable car that takes off when you need power. The only major problem I had was the transmission had to be rebuilt.

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  Never Again - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By das_junk - April 30 - 2:49 pm

  My 2010 VW Jetta TDI sportwagen was fine for the first 4 thousand miles then it has been nothing short of a nightmare. In 2.5 years this TDI has been in the shop over 80 days for check engine and service now (glow plug flashing) at this point the car just quits when it feels like it. Parts, parts and more parts has yet keep this VW on the road. Driving down the road no warning..Quits!, make a turn and hit a pothole..Quits! Trade-in value at VW dealers is 4 to 5 thousand dollars off bluebook because of the "issue" with this car. Customer care would only offer 1 thousand dollars and refused to swap for a same year and milage VW.Make things right..guess not. Hitlers dream is my nightmare

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  Nice car when its not in service dept - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Dave - April 29 - 2:33 am

  Ive had this car a month and its been in VW service for half of that time with three different episodes of having the check engine light on (oxygen sensor replaced, EGR gasket replaced, software update). I suspect they disconnected the check engine light after the last time... Ive also had the windshield cracked by a rock... When I can drive the car its been very good. The fuel economy is astounding - 40 mpg in mixed driving 47-50 on the highway. Interior is very nice with high quality materials and finish for this class of car. Touch screen stereo is nice. Large trunk. The car overall seems very solid and the handling is first rate. Bluetooth has been funky - after one call it shuts off.

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  Economy car with luxury maintenance cost - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Keiller - April 28 - 10:00 am

  How does $10/liter for oil sound? Thats what my dealer tried to sell it to me for. I went online and bought it for $6.40/Liter. How does $34/liter for transmission fluid sound? Thats what my dealer wants. Again, I went online and found it for half that (which is still outrageous!). I wanted fuel efficiency and thats why I bought the Jetta TDI, but its an expensive car to operate. Buy a Honda...I wish I had.

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  Excellent Daily Driver - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Joshua - April 27 - 5:26 pm

  My 2006 Volkswagen Jetta 2.5 is a great daily driver. It has lots of features like the satellite radio, navigation, etc. The leather is improved bigtime as well as interior design, with a quality you only see in higher priced luxury cars. The handling has improved 110% from the previous model. The only quark is to see more of the traditional "German" design to come back. Other than that its a great car!

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  6-spd manual TDI....Great car and value! - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Eric - April 26 - 8:50 am

  I have owned my TDI for 6 months and it has been great. My previous car was a Volvo T5 S40 and I must say the TDI has plenty of power. Diesels have so many benefits but they also offer great power at any speed. Always wanted a VW but didnt like the quality of the gas motors. Decided to take the leap from Volvo (longtime owner--last 4 cars were S60 and S40 turbos...well one Acura TSX in that time also) after having some quality issues. I am very impressed with the quality of materials and how the car fits together. The ride is firm and sporty. It drives like a front wheel drive version of the BMW 3 series (if only the Jetta was RWD it would be the perfect car!) Average 40- 43 mpg.

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  Investigate throughly before you buy! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Rose - April 24 - 11:23 am

  I bought the car at 33,000. With 3 months left on factory warranty. The first 2 months I had the car it was in the dealership for about a month in a half still having to pay the car note. There were problems with windows not wanting to roll down, rear passenger doors wouldnt open, sunroof would open by itself. One night I literally could not close sunroof by the switch and had to manually close it. It was problem after problem. Oh, one more thing the oil light comes on for no apparent reason even after Ive had an oil change. Hopefully if you purchase a VW and you have no hassle you picked a good apple.