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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  Better than most - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jedberg - October 25 - 10:00 am

  I thought that my car had problems until I read about everyone elses. I had to do my rear brakes at 30K, but VW paid for it. My gears have been grinding since the beginning, but they tell me it is "normal". At 45K miles, everything works perfectly, now that I had my 40K service for $600. :( The worst problem I had was with Broadway Volkswagen in Oakland, CA. They damaged my car when I took it in for service, and when I called them on it, they said right to my face, "Yeah, we damaged it, but you cant prove it." I complained to VW, and they said they had similar complaints, but the dealership is still open. DONT GO TO BRAODWAY VW!!

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  I Love My Jetta! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jetta 2.5L PZEV - October 24 - 5:33 am

  I bought my Jetta in July 2006 and Ive just love it! For a compact sedan, it feels luxurious. Ive always wanted a Jetta, and Im glad I waiting until they came out with a different look. It is bigger than the old model. It has excellent handling on the road. I just wish it got a little better gas mileage. But, with the safety airbag features, you cant go wrong with this car. I got the Package #1. It is awesome!

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  Jetta GLX VR6 - good but could be better - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By dco - October 22 - 11:36 am

  Quality of material is excellent, craftmanship is less than perfect for the Mexico built models. Suspension too american and soft. Manual Shiffter too long and rubberry. Equipement of US car is unacceptable compared to european model which comes with AWD, 6 speed manual,201 HP and GPS for the same price.

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  97 GLX Reliability issues - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Scrappy - October 20 - 10:00 am

  Door alarm problem - car arms itself whenever the rear door is opened or that electric window is operated. Need 2 keys to get it started. Engine Sputters - Car sometimes hesitates and runs poorly for a few days then is fine for weeks at a time. Side door molding strips keep falling off. Buy some doublesided tape ahead of time. No big deal to fix. No place to put stuff. Ex: Cup hldr under ashtray so unusable for anything taller than soda. though. FIX ELECTRICAL PROBS! VWs notorious for this. Youd think theyd have solved by now.

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  2000 jetta - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Oxbig - October 20 - 10:00 am

  Overall, it has been a fun car to drive, although underpowered. No mechanical problems, but small things go wrong. Interior reading light never worked right. Glovebox was flimsy and hinge broke on a cold day. Passenger side power window doesnt work. Also seems to burn a lot of oil. I would gladly have traded free servicing for a longer warranty. Car was purchased and driven in Canada.

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  Safe Car - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By KCVW - October 19 - 2:00 am

  This car is a very good deal. It comes with ESP and all of the safety equipment, top crash and dynamic safety ratings for $17,500. I like the car overall. Its front seat comfort is only so-so for me, but the ride is very good. Its performance is fine, but its gas mileage is just OK. Nothing feels better at highway speeds (any speed you choose) than a VW. That makes them great cruisers. For the money its quite a deal.

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  You Cant Miss - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jimd - October 18 - 4:16 am

  When I first got the Jetta TDI I was averaging 36 - 38 mpg. After 30,000 miles I am now getting a solid 42-46 mpg driving in Austin commuter traffic. Needless to say I am pleased. Tell me again why hybrids make economic sense. I paid $24,000 for this car and have just priced it out at $21,000 hmm...

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  Definitely a VW Fan - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By BOSTON_VW - October 13 - 2:16 pm

  After almost 3 years of owning this car, i can honestly say its had a few issues, including water pump replacement, standard transmission syncros replaced, clutch replaced as well due to leaking transmission after synchro repair (dunno if that counts due to dealership not wear and tear), exhaust hangers quit after 1 year and a few bulbs and small issues like rim caps etc. Nothing major except for what was listed and that was all warranty work. Drives great, never fails to fire up and go.. great little cars overall. Love the stereo, sunroof and other features it came with. 1.8 T motor is great. just enough push to play, not enough fuel sucking to make it a gas pig. Overall, very balanced.

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  Great Car - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By happyjetta - October 13 - 11:30 am

  Minor mechanical breakdowns but they were completely covered under the warranty. Warranty even supplied a rental car when it was being fixed.

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  Great Car for a Teen - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JettaGirl - October 12 - 8:23 pm

  Im 17 years old and my dad bought me a 2005 Jetta in January. It is so great for me, it has great gas mileage and I can count on it since it is brand new right off the lot. The styling is really trendy and hip ecpecially in the galatic blue (like mine). The new redesigned Jettas are really luxurious inside, but the exterior styling is not that great.