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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  High End German Feel - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Ted - January 10 - 3:23 pm

  I bought the 2008 Jetta SE with the charcoal exterior and dark grey interior. I really like this car. Has the look and feel of a much more expensive vehicle at an affordable price. I think the biggest criticism Ive heard about the car is the exterior styling being too similar to the Toyota Corolla. I think the roofline and silhouette of the car is more sophisticated compared to the Corolla. The new tail lights for 2008 also have a new look (VW darkened the perimeter of the tail lights, giving it a more distinctive look). I think the interior is also top notch. Quality materials and lots of features you wont see on the Civic or base model, midsize cars (i.e. Camry, Accord, Altima).

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  2006 Jetta TDI (Forget Hybrid & Get TDI) - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Andy Haroon - January 8 - 8:23 am

  I bought the 2005.5 Volkswagen Jetta TDI and a month later was so impressed that I sold my other car and got another 2006 TDI for my wife. This vehicle rocks. I try to find excuses to drive it. I personally like the 2005.5 just because VW threw in free options like the heated seats, automatic rain sensing wipers, dual climatic control, entry / exit illumination (VW calls it coming home feature), and the MFI system. On the 2006 model you have to get package two (almost $5,000 more to get options like these). So our 2006 is a plain Jane but the good thing is its my wifes car LOL.

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  Dont overlook the Jetta TDI - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Impressive Car! - January 6 - 6:40 pm

  Ive driven a TDI for the past three years and have loved the reliability, long maintence intervals, and efficiency of this engine. I traded my Beetle TDI in for the New 06 Jetta TDI. So far, I have loved the experience. This new design is much improved! Its not whisper quiet (much improved though)...but i can say its a night and day difference when comparing with the Beetle.

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  *groan* wish Id thought it through - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Lizzie - January 6 - 2:00 am

  Bought mine loaded just over 4 mos. ago & am already trying to sell it. Problems started immediately-grinding gears between 1st & 2nd, turn signals & intermittent wipers went out. On day 5 Emissions warning light came on. Turns out the ignition was failing & burned out the catalytic converter,which almost crashed my entire exhaust system. There went $700! This was in addition to majorly leaking sunroof, broken cupholder, broken memory seats, broken console & major gas usage. Im having terrible sellers remorse for my 95 Honda Civic with 100k on it! No problems until Id had it 6 years. And I hate Carmax for lying about this Jetta - stay away from them!!

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  I will NEVER buy another VW again !!! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Blessedmann - January 6 - 2:00 am

  I had a 1984 Jetta that was great so I thought I would try it agian. BIG mistake. I spent more $ on repairs then the car was worth. When I was told that it needs a new trans I got rid of it.

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  Love my Jetta!! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By nobby - January 6 - 2:00 am

  Cant say enough good things about my Jetta. Cool white, tinted windows, 17inch rims and still getting complements when i go out. After reading about all the major problems with other jettas makes my jetta look like a keeper. The only minor problem was the wood trim next to the radio fell off the first month. They replaced it and nothing since. Dont plan on buying another jetta soon because I plan on having this car forever.

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  Lovin it - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ADAM KEISER - January 5 - 4:10 am

  This car has been wonderful to me. I have only had but a few problems, i.e. waterpump, starter. It has taken well to all types of weather.

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  Build It and they Will Buy! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Paul in Arizona - January 4 - 10:26 pm

  Our 2006 Volkswagen Jetta TDI is our first Volkswagen. The turbodiesel engine gets 47 mpg in combined city / highway driving. It has a very quiet ride, excellent handling, excellent stereo, excellent air conditioning, and is a blast to drive. The seats are a little hard though for long trips. It has a huge trunk, very quiet motor, minimal maintenance, and its service manual is available on CD-ROM. Why doesnt everyone drive one of these?

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  Stay away from 2002 Jetta - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Eric - January 4 - 5:26 am

  VW Jetta is not worth a dime. Problems since day 1. Water pump froze up causing timing belt to jump an d ruin engine. 1 Year later water pump froze up again. Constant electrical glitches and other mysterious items. Local VW dealer wont even look at if for less than $120. I would highly recommend staying away from these vehicles. They look nice; however, the quality is garbage.

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  Excited in St Louis - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By St Louis Boy - January 3 - 10:03 am

  I have been buying US branded cars since the first one. Ive had no discrimination against brands, Ford, Gm, Chrysler. All are good but none are making me as happy as this new Jetta TDI. It has great speed and pick-up with shifts that are unbelievably quick. Ive never had any transmission shift so fast and smooth. I was surprised when hitting 70mph there was another gear. The interior is solid and very up scale. Vinyl or not the seats feel like their from a luxury car. I havent had anyone even guess its a diesel. The interior is quieter than a Cadillac I once had. The body is smaller than the Dodge Charger we traded in on it but there was no trade off in interior or trunk space. Buy It!!