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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  Great Car - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By chichitao - July 28 - 5:16 pm

  I got this car for my wife because it got such good crash test ratings and because of the airbags, gas mileage, and overall quality. We have not been disappointed. It drives great (we came from an Xterra which rides like a tin can on wheels), it has more than enough power for a little car, and it is fun to drive. That is really all you can ask. There is enough room inside for us and plenty of room for back seat passengers. The trunk room is outstanding!

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  Thank god for a warranty - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Roosy_h - July 27 - 10:10 am

  This is my wifes car so I dont drive it, so in other words its driven easy. So why did the water pump go and transmission have to be replaced under 100,000 miles, not to mention it has had window problems twice, and had its sensor replacements. These problems speak for themself, the car does not meet my expectations. One thing to say, VW honored their warranties and autmatically extended the warranties for the windows and sensors. I didnt have to pay for the replacement of these items or else I wouldve been out $7,000 just this year. It goes to you show you never and I mean never buy a car during a new model year/new generation year.

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  2006 Jetta GLI 2.0 L/200hp/turbo - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By The Jet - July 26 - 11:26 pm

  Just purchased an 06 Jetta, red with charcol interior. I looked at Toyota, Honda, Nissan. For driveability and price it was a tough decision. No barganing on the Honda Accord Hybrid, all quotes were $30,000. The Nissan Altima looked pretty good but the mileage was not impressive and the price a little higher for the same features. Toyota had nothing to interest me. Drove the Jetta, excellent road handling, good acceleration, comfortable, manual transmisson and clutch very smooth. Gets 26/34, uses premium though,for this engine (2.0L turbo/200hp). Overall impression; excellent fit and finish, good comfort features, sporty, firm ride but not stiff, very quiet interior, premium sound system.

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  My Vdubb - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By DaLarr - July 24 - 11:10 am

  Well, I just got my Jetta a week ago! Evrything is great on the car from the interior to the exterior to the build quality. I already have to take it in for the alignment (VW said no problem they will handle it)! Something went wrong with the CD player but thats a small fix! I have the navigation system and love it! I dont know why some others dont like it, but it works great for me. All in all, its a great car!

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  Never go without a warranty - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By gunz20 - July 22 - 10:30 am

  Our first import car. TDI is great for fuel economy. Problems; we hit 20000 miles & had to replace the fuel filter. Could have been bad diesel fuel, but paid because its suggested to be replaced every 20000 miles. Vehicle now has 64000, no problems since. Trunk lid latch doesnt work in cold weather. Got it replaced under warranty, now it doesnt work again and no warranty to help. Most recent, driver side door electrical harness went out, leaving me with no controls, no way lock car or open up the fuel tank door. VW wants $500 to repair. Dealer said passenger door is going out, another $500. Also, we have replaced several, blown exterior light bulbs, some multiple times.

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  Clutch nightmare - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By alcent - July 20 - 10:00 am

  Car is pretty nice but beware of clutch on standard tranmission. I had several manual transmission cars so I know how to drive a standard. But I was told by Momentum that my clutch was burned out at 23000 miles. Bull.. It is not covered under warranty and I had to shell out $1800.00. I am getting rid of my Jetta VR6 as soon as I can. I tell all my friends DO NOT VOLKSWAGON!

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  GLI is the way to go! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By h0mersimps0n - July 20 - 10:00 am

  just think of every aspect of a car and add excellent as an adjective and you are describing a VW GLI JETTA

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  Great Car - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Daniel - July 20 - 6:13 am

  The Jetta GLI is truly a great car. It was my first new car purchase and I am very pleased with the result. Interstate driving is very comfortable and you are rewarded with Honda Accord-like gas mileage. In the city, the good gas mileage pretty much goes away, but you do get to enjoy feeling the turbo spool. So far the only problem I have had is that the windshield wiper fluid doesnt spray out, but the dealership is looking into this for me. It has a great sound system and good ergonomics. Be sure to look at more than one dealer for pricing. They will go below "invoice" even if one dealer says they wont. Mine was $1,000 below "invoice." This car is really a lot of fun to drive with the refinement of a BMW 3-Series. This car is a step up in class for VW.

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  Mostly a good car - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Steve - July 18 - 10:00 am

  Overall it has been a good car. I have about 92000 miles on it now and needs some significant work. A wheel bearing is shot, the head gasket leaks, and a few other minor repairs needed. The real problem is that this engine seems to have a flaw as noted by many others. I began to get a VERY rough idle at about 50000 miles that was repaired under warranty for $5000. The problem is coming back now and can really only get a band-aid repair if I want to avoid paying $5000 on my own (which didnt really last anyway). Other than this, it has been a super reliable car and has had very few problems. It has been probably my favorite car I have ever owned but I am selling it now to avoid major repairs.

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  Love this car - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Leman - July 18 - 10:00 am

  This car is beautiful. I had 2006 jetta sedan but this new one is a fall in love :)