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:
Showing 2301 through 2310 of 4,495.00-
Respectable Gas Sipper - 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
By jbkutah - December 3 - 5:26 amI wanted something with excellent gas mileage for business reimbursement, but respectable enough for my wife to want to ride in on date night. So far, this car is fitting the bill great. Much roomier and respectable than a Corolla, Focus, or the like. Traded the hubcaps for some 5 spoke oem wheels. Mileage is 33-35mpg in mixed driving. True, the 2.0 is not a fast car nor a luxury ride, but I dont race around in it during my commute or during business outings. Manual tranny helps give it a little pep and/or work the gas mileage numbers. Decent ride comfort and I feel safe in the car. Im expecting decent reliability cause of the tried and true engine and lack of bells and whistles.
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Another name for car is Jetta - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
By Proud Jetta Owner - December 1 - 2:06 pmI am so Impressed with my Jetta. I am so happy that I did not go for a Honda or a Toyota this time. I had a CR-V and Civic before but after owning Jetta I just realized my mistake of choosing Honda 2 times. Jetta is very comfortable, Safe and amazing performance. It has everything that I was looking in a car. Volkswagen Customer service is the best. My last statement - Ladies and gentlemen, Boys and Girl before you buy car (new) you must look at Jetta. You get more than what you pay for.
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Not really happy - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
By sallyim - December 1 - 10:00 amA number of things have gone wrong with this car and now I am looking at a bill of 1500.00 and of course, only the dealership can fix it. I use to love VWs ....NO MORE.
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Avoid VW Jettas - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
By laurenjc - December 1 - 10:00 amI have had repeated problems with the engine...COSTLY repeated problems. The ENTIRE computer system of the car failed and had to be replaced...the mass air flow system replaced...oxygen sensors replaced twice. Interior problems as well; cheap quality plastics used in glove compartment hinges (snapped/broken), other broken interior items as well.
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My first new car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
By turbysquad - December 1 - 10:00 amI love the Jetta for its simple, yet distinct styling. The interior is perfect, with its black monotone look. I love the chrome accents on the door handles and the gear selector. Red gauges with blue background is fantastic. The 1.8 litre engine is smooth and powerful, with minimal turbo lag, although I wish I would have chosen the 5sp manual. My only peeve, is that the back seat is a little cramped, but Im never back there. In all, I am a Volkswagen driver for life, or until I can afford an Audi.
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Another Good One - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
By RBouchardJr - December 1 - 10:00 amGas mileage is excellent (47mpg/hwy) and the acceleration is great. Cruise control is reliable. Monsoon stereo is very good. Handling on the corners is very secure and reassuring. It is very quiet for a diesel. Passing acceleration is very good.
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03 Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
By Lmadden - December 1 - 10:00 amI have had my Jetta for one month and two days, it has been at the dealer three times for five seperate issues. If you are looking for a reliable car, do not buy a jetta, rather buy a jetta if you like the look and feel of luxury at a economic price. Mine is black with black interior, but its getting traded in this week already for a different car....I got a lemon...
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mydub - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
By dubman - December 1 - 7:23 amowning this 03 jetta has been wonderful and my kids love the car as well.Plus it being a 5 speed,makes it more fun to drive.The only thing that i would change is the location of the cup holders.When your on the freeway and your driving this vehicle you could be doing 80 miles an hour and not even know it.
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Mechanically reliable, but thats all - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
By hgates - December 1 - 12:50 amI have owned this for 8 years (purchased new). Mechanically, it is fairly reliable. Save a water pump there have been no issues other than normal wear and tear items. The engine seems solid, although underpowered and noisy. The transmission is not very responsive, especially switching from R to D. The rest of the car is complete junk. Everything falls off. The center hub cap on the alloys, the chrome trim on the doors, the fabric on the interior doors, the speaker grills, the headliner is falling down, the center console broke apart, the engine splash guard, the plastic lower grill inserts, etc. Also, all the rubber coating on everything peels and looks horrible after a few years.
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Better than a Civic, Corolla or Elantra? - 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
By GPR - November 30 - 1:54 pmIve owned several Hondas and Toyotas and I was in the market for a used sedan. My certified 2012 Jetta was cheaper than the Civics, Corollas, and Elantras in my area at the time. Im very happy with my purchase. The car is sporty and fun to drive with a nice sprinkling of technology and heated seats. My only complaints are that my A/C stopped blowing cold air and my trunk light didnt work. Both were fixed under warranty. It would be nicer if the arm rest between the front seats was higher and longer. I believe thats the case with newer models.
