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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  Clutch failed at 20k miles - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By - September 22 - 11:36 am

  At 20k miles, the clutch completely burned up. Smoke, burning smell, the whole deal. VW says the clutch is a "wear and tear" item, like tires or brakes, and thus it is not covered under my 3 yr/36k "worry free" new car warranty. The repair cost quoted by the dealer is $2400. I am an experienced manual driver and have never burned out a clutch before. My previous Jetta (1998) went over 160k on the original clutch before I traded it in. But, VW insists this is caused by the driver and not the part. I actually really loved this car until the clutch failed. But after having that happen, Im not sure I could buy another one.

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  Too Many Problems - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tigerroux - September 18 - 2:00 am

  I havent been too pleased with the many various problems Ive had with this car. Brand new, the biggest problem being a replacement of transmission, rotors, broken rear view mirror,a security system problem, and sticking drink holder mechanism. These were all fixed by a very good dealership, but all of this happened before the car had 5,000 miles on it. It doesnt give me a warm and fuzzy feeling on the reliability of what might happen next. The other thing Im not too happy with is the gas mileage. I think VW could do better.

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  I love this car! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mtguy - September 16 - 5:53 pm

  Ive had the vehicle only a short time, but have driven over 6,000 miles. Im totally impressed with how fun it is to drive, its features, and its performance. Ive had no problems, and when I took it for the 5,000 mile service, I was treated extremely well. Ive been totally impressed by the car and by Volkswagen all around. Ive not had the car long, but Im definately a return buyer in the future.

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  My new car - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Chris - September 16 - 5:20 am

  I just bought this car and think it is supurb. Great car for the price and much improved over the 2002 Jetta. This is my second Volkswagon and I feel I made a great choice. It is fun, stylish, gets great gas mileage and has nice safety features.

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  VW FAIL. - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Josh - September 13 - 2:26 pm

  I financed this Jetta used for around $11k and ended up spending over $13k in repair receipts over the short lifetime of this car. Every possible part on this car had to be replaced at least once, and it was constantly towed to the shop. We just got rid of this for a reliable Honda.

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  Got a great deal - 2017 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JesusFreak - September 13 - 3:58 am

  Not quite as nice as my 2009 TDI, but very good for the money. Fun to drive. Great features. Manual is very nice. Mileage is exceptional for non-Diesel. Things I miss from my 2009, no locking glove box, no AC outlet in the back (built in inverter). The interior is "cheaper", but the features like Apple Car Play, Backup Camera and Heated Seats are very nice. 39MPG on highway trip.

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  JETTA Headache!! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Vanessa Montero - September 12 - 10:00 am

  I spent good $ on a "quality car" to come to find out that my windows will be falling within the 2nd year. I feel that this car is not worth its value. I constantly have to go to the dealer to fix one thing or the other. This is a very delicate car and cannot be driven. First, my armrest started peeling within the 6th month. Once my car hit 20,000 it got stuck and I had to get it towed b/c the brake light had blown. Rencently, both passenger windows have fallen. My fender is getting bent

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  an honest review - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By effigy3 - September 12 - 10:00 am

  My current car is GLX 5M and is my 5th VW. This car has wonderful road manners, is quiet, powerful, comfortable, and looks great. I must have a car that can handle itself on windy highway roads at speed limit plus velocities and this car delivers! The pick a line and go, the body sets itself and tracks wonderfully. It is great for road tips and as a grocery-getter too. Just keep rear seat occupants under 6 tall. I have had great luck with my VWs but have seen others with “check engine light” issues, window regulator failures, and small irritants. Could it be their maintenance practices? I dont know.

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  Brilliant Little Car - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jetta Lover - September 12 - 2:23 am

  This car is stunning to look at and has loads of power, with the Tiptronic transmission and sports mode providing a whole lot of thrills. It has a surprisingly spacious interior and more than enough room for three sets of golf clubs. The standard 6 disc sound system is impressive and the leatherette seats are almost as good as the real thing (and far better than cloth). The fuel economy is excellent. Its a lot of fun to drive and can fit into virtually any parking space. Im seriously considering buying another one for my wife.

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  Great bargain german vehicle - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Michael - September 9 - 1:20 am

  I am pleasantly shocked at how much I like this car. I am coming out of a high power sport sedan and thought I would miss the power and handling. However, the Jetta handles as well as any of the three BMWs I have owned - almost as good as my M5. Torque steer is nonexistent. Pickup in sport mode is very good for an in-line 5 cylinder. I actually preferred the performance of the SE to the Wolfsberg edition (Turbo 4 and DSG tranny). I am very pleased at the performance results for such an affordable car. Interior build is pretty good. The touch screen audio controls make the interior pop. I wish it had more creature comforts, but for the money, I cannot complain.