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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  Junk! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kady - March 14 - 3:06 pm

  I bought my Jetta 3 years ago. I had it for about 5 months before it started having serious electrical issues. After letting off the accelerator the car will just shut off and all the service lights will start beeping. Also sometimes after turning off the car and opening the door all the cab lights flash as well as the clock on the dash. Sometimes the car wont start at all. I have been taking it to VW dealership service shops and other shops that specialize in foreign cars for two years and no one can tell me what is wrong with it.

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  Love my 2013 TDI! - 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ellerman99 - March 13 - 5:48 pm

  Have only had it for 2 weeks and 700 kms (Canadian) but I love this car! Upgraded the 18 VW Khartoum wheels so it has a nice sporty look, ride comfort is great and so far fuel mileage has been great! All around a perfect car for me, Ill be doing about 3,000 KM a month. Performance is surprising for a TDI, although I have never owned one, Ive heard in the past they were sluggish, not this, once the turbo kicks in it does pretty good!

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  This Car is for Suckers - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Graham25 - March 13 - 2:00 am

  After years of wanting a Jetta, I bought one and...well....be careful what you ask for. The car was great until it the 80,000 mile mark and then small things started going out and then big expensive things started breaking like the clutch. After only 3,000 miles, the clutch has gone out again and VW is refusing to guarantee their workmanship and pay to fix it. I will never buy a VW again and am filing a complaint with my states Attorney Generals Office.

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  Decent for my standards - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By wpederson - March 13 - 2:00 am

  This car is remarkable quick for being a 4 banger. I was equally impressed by the list of standard features with this model. Being a single man, I did not care about backseat room, until I had to sit back there! There was less room than my 2dr Accord Coupe! But the car really proved itself to me when I rear ended a brand new Mercedes, the airbags werent pleasant (but what ones are?) however I was highly impressed by the way it held up. The damage was $10,000+ and would have surely totaled my Honda had I been driving it. After the car was fixed it wasnt the same (are they ever?) so I traded up to a 2002 VW Passat (will review that one too)

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  What a mistake - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ValancyMeris - March 12 - 11:36 am

  This vehicle was purchased new in April of 2000. It has been back to the dealership for Check Engine light service an average of 6 times per year. I have had it serviced in April, May, June and have an appointment for July of this year. My father drove a VW Bus from 1978 until 1998 and it was still in good shape when he sold it, I thought VW was a vehicle I could rely on, but that has not been my experience. Ive spent over $1,000 on service so far this year. Oh, and by the way, when you take the car in for service be sure to remind the techs to check the oil; two different dealerships failed to do this when the vehicle was brought in for basic service.

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  Still unsure - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Love it Hate it, too - March 11 - 3:16 pm

  The guy who said "love it, hate it" had it right. Love the car, but at 35,000 miles, Ive had a LOT of costly warranty work on the transmission and issues with oil consumption that the service writers refuse to talk to me about. Its suspicious but apparently a common problem- Google it. The trans is going to go out again and already has signs of wear a tear.

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  Jetta - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By decker - March 9 - 2:36 am

  Our 2002 Volkswagen Jetta has been a great car to drive. We have not had any major problems with it. All of the recalled parts were hassel free to fix. It has the pick up that I like and good fuel economy whlie cruising.

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  Teutonic friend of mine - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By David L - March 8 - 5:36 pm

  My 2004.5 Volkswagen Jetta GLI has been flawless. The personality and charm is understated. The build quality and engineering has been well thought out, and my MPG has been 20% better than expected (22-30). I love the the upgrades that they offered on the 2004.5 GLI. Thanks VW.

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  Fun to Drive Car - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By adamt - March 8 - 2:00 am

  When I first test drove this car, I was eager to own one. After purchasing the Jetta GLS 99 model, I am still enjoying driving. Cool accelaration on the highways and safe changing lanes on high speeds.

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  will never buy a jetta again - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By SERG JG - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER VW PERIOD,THEY VERY NICE FEATURES BUT, RELIABILITY IS NOT THERE.IVE HAD PROBLEMS W/THE CD CHANGER MORE THAN ONCE,IVE HAD PROBLEMS W/TRANSMISSION MORE THAN ONCE,IVE HAD PROBLEMS W/THE EXHAUST (MAKING NOISES)AND THER WAS A RECALL ON THE POWER WINDOWS SYSTEM TOO...ANYWAY IS BEEN TERRIBLE TO OWN THIS VEHICLE SO,I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND A VW CAR.THANX.