2005 Volkswagen Jetta Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.33/5 Average
241 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A completely redesigned Jetta sedan has arrived as a midyear replacement, but some versions of the previous version are still available. The GLI VR6 version of the old model was dropped from the lineup, while the GLI 1.8T added an automatic transmission to the options list.

Read our Volkswagen Jetta TDI Long-Term 20,000-Mile Test

Pros:
  • Powerful turbo engines, fuel-efficient TDI power plant, fun to drive, comfortable ride, rich interior materials, loads of standard safety features, excellent crash test scores, solid build quality. Cons
Cons:
  • Tight rear-seat legroom and weak base four-cylinder on old model, somewhat bland styling on new Jetta.

User Reviews:

Showing 221 through 230 of 241.00
  • Noises and Rattles - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had my VW Jetta for three months. It makes a horrible noise when starting (after sitting several hours), dealer says its normal :(... (secondary air pump?). Have also had several dash rattles and speaker noise. Dealer ordered repair kit for speakers, but there is no fix possible for engine noise (sounds like a diesel when first starts). I am a first and probably a last timw VW owner.

  • Not as good as I thought - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have loved my Jetta until today. All of sudden, I was stuck in the middle of the road because my car would not go into gear (manual transmission). I have read many complaints on the National Highway and Safety website of other owners complaining of the same problem and VW who will not take responsibility. My warranty was up less than 1000 miles ago. My car has only been driven 50,000 miles. I should not be having problems with it so soon. It is costly to fix and I am very upset. I had planned on upgrading to a Passat in 2 years because I was so happy with the Jetta, but I dont think I will.

  • Nice car, great value retention - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Leased this GLI 1.8T 6 manual in November 2004. Had only one problem through 10/07 and 37000 miles: sunroof leaked because drain hoses clogged with debris, cant fault VW for that. Reasonably peppy car, fun handling (could use stiffer sway bars to reduce body lean), fantastic brakes. Interior is well appointed though back seat legroom is tight (I mainly used it as a 1-person commuter car anyway). Fuel economy was good, would average about 30-31 in mixed highway and city driving. Dip in to the boost too much and drive only in the city and youll pay though. Overall, I have been very satisfied with this car. Value retention has been excellent.

  • Love This Car - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive never had so much fun driving a car. It is awesome. I wasnt excited about getting a Jetta but when the salesman convinced me to test drive it at the dealership I fell in love. We also own an audi A-4 quattro and the turbo jettas performance is better. Ive had no problems other than the rear brakes squeaking when I back up sometimes.

  • I love my Jetta - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love this car. I handles great. Fuel consumption is reasonable. It is an excellent city car, but also good on the highway. I have had four Jettas, and this is by far the best.

  • I love this car! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I am thrilled with my 6-speed manual Jetta GLI. The only negatives I can think of are the lack of a center console and the very short first gear that almost makes you want to start out in second. However, it is without a doubt the most fun driving experience I have ever had in any car, and I love hearing the turbo whistle after 2000 rpms. it looks awesome with the ground effects, 18-inch rims, and Recaro racing seats-all of which come stock with the GLI. The clutch is extremely smooth, the breaks are perfect, good air conditioning and easy-to use controls, and an excellent stereo system. I would definitely suggest this vehicle to anyone who wants a good blend between power and practicality.

  • 7 years and counting - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    1st owner of my 2005 Jetta Diesel, have station wagon auto trans. Travel from North East to Florida each year, so it has avoided winter salty roads. Ive replace the timing belt at 85,000 miles to be on safe side. Will need new rubber on my struts both normal ware. Still have original brake pads at 90,000 miles at every oil change I expect to be told its time to change so far not yet. Fuel economy.... average 34 to 39 miles per gallon I can get 42 miles on a gallon if I drive at my RPM sweet spot which is 38 to 41 miles an hour, at that speed you will get the 42 per gallon. Would I buy this vehicle again YOU BETCHA I would. Paid $21,5000 in Jan of 20005

  • Great car! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love my Jetta! It has tons of great options, great quality, and great fuel economy. It drives like a much more expensive vehicle. Great safety and convience features.

  • My best car yet - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My 05 TDI has 112000 miles. I purchased it new. It gets up to 60 mpg but averages 45 mpg. Im 6, 250 and find it very comfortable and fun to drive. Maintenance is expensive but I never had any major problems. I also had a 04 Passat TDI but only got 30-32 mpg. Would love to have another Jetta TDI like mine.

  • Dont Buy!!! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car for the purpose of getting great MPG. Although you do get good MPG you spend so much more money in maintenance that are you farther behind. My car has 162,000 miles on it. The dealership says the dual mass flywheel is bad, Alternator pulley is bad, Axel, and a few other things. If I would fix everything that the dealership says needs to be fixed I would spend more money than the car is valued at on kelley blue book. If you have this car, sell is as quickly as possible before it turns into a boat anchor.... I am getting a ford fusion.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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