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:

• 

  Germans do it better! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Lulu - March 29 - 9:53 pm

  This was my first brand new car and Ive been completely happy with it. The base line model (GL) doesnt feel very base line with remote key less entry, power windows/locks, CD AM/FM and cassette, cruise control, chrome trim accents and those cool purple dash board lights. Its comfortable, reliable, nice to drive and gets good mileage. Servicing is reasonably priced and so is the car itself. I dont think the signal lights staying on were manufacturer default, but operator malfunction. Heres a tip, turn the lights OFF and they wont run your battery down. Good luck backing up in that ION. (thats a bad shape)

• 

  Unreliable - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jdiggity666 - March 28 - 9:30 pm

  This car gets great gas mileage and in my case the mechanical aspects are good. However, i have had numerous problems with my jetta. Both front door sensors broke, my arm rest broke, the glove box door fell off. Both front turning indicator light covers broke. Small but extremely frustrating problems.

• 

  20,000 Miles - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mowryc - March 26 - 8:46 pm

  I was in the market for a fuel efficient car to replace my aging Toyota. The TDI fit the bill perfectly. I average 40 MPG overall and get at least 500 miles per tank (12 gal). I love the interior of the car. It has been years since I owned a German car and I had forgotten how comfortable and ergonomic they were. Everything is logically placed and within easy reach. I have always disliked automatic climate control and the Jetta allows me get the system exactly were I want it (fan, hot/cold, floor/panel). After this, I will never own another Japanese vehicle :)

• 

  my dream car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By 04JETTA - March 25 - 6:53 am

  This has always been my dream car and now that Ive had it for a little over 3 years i cannot be happier

• 

  Great Commuter Car - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jonesy - March 23 - 12:20 am

  I drive about 100 miles a day going back and forth to work and the TDI really gets incredible mileage saving me hundreds of dollars each month compared to my full size truck. It has great low end power and just enough top end to pass on the freeway. Interior is comfortable for long trips and your butt gets sore from sitting way before you need to refuel.

• 

  Jetta 01 diesel - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jcas - March 22 - 10:00 am

  It took six months to delivery due to the US limit on imported diesel engines: an unfair conflict with fuel efficiency which provided a tax rebate on our 1981 diesel Rabbit (sold in 95) Performance has been excellent; 48-50 mpg on cross-country trips with AC, 75mph. Two equipment notices for for free replacement of parts. Oil changes and such at dealer very expensive unless you provide your own oil/other. Overall dealer mechanical work so-so. Service desk personnel very helpful.

• 

  If you want economy, you must pay for it! - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By bud8138 - March 22 - 5:00 am

  We have a 2009 Jetta TDI with 115,000 miles on it. It gets great fuel economy, is fun to drive, looks good.....BUT....The regular maintenence costs will negate that great fuel economy, especially if you have the 6 speed automatic transmission, which is actually two manual transmissions in one case that is shifted hydraullicly. It requires regular maintenence every 80,000 miles tat makes one think they are buying a new tranny. Add to that a new timing belt at 90,000 miles that will run another $1200. So you see, you pay for that economy. I love the car but will not buy another. Oh yeah, a faulty fuse holder for one bank of headlights is another $520.00.

• 

  I love this car! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jettalover - March 22 - 3:40 am

  We traded our 2003 TDI Jetta for the 2006 model at the end of last year, and we love it even more than our 03! Its much roomier and very comfortable on a trip. My daughter has much more room in the back than she did before as well. We get great gas mileage, and its actually quieter than the 2003 was.

• 

  It has been a nightmare - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Juan R - March 21 - 10:30 pm

  I bought this brand-new-vehicle 3 months ago, and soon I noticed an unexpected oil consumption. I took it to the VW dealer (where I bought it from) and the diag.results were: * 20km-road-test ->300ML oil consumption (They said "Any oil consumption is abnormal") * Transmission problems * Gear system issue * Brakes issue I want to return the vehicle, and get my money back, but they say they will just fix it. I have not had any other choices since the law here only makes them fix the issues, and does not let clients get a vehicle replacement, nor their money back. I am still talking to VW corporate in Mexico, with no luck yet. Anyone knows where to submit a complain outside of Mexico?

• 

  Volkswagon Sucks!! - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Michelesb - March 20 - 10:00 am

  We have had so many problems with this car! We have had electrical problems with the radio and windows, the car does not shift well (it has an automatic transmission), we have to replace the rotars every year. We only drive the car 18 miles a day and consistently have to pay between $300 - $700 every year to get the car past inspection. The interior of the car is supposed to be stain resistant but get stained with a small amount of WATER. Our interior is a mess mostly from water stains. We thought that Volkswagons were very reliable, quality cars... we wil NEVER purchase another VW!