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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  Love it! / Hate it! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By dirtwoman65 - July 16 - 4:53 pm

  I love my Jetta...however, I burn 1 qt. of oil every 1,000 miles. This is rediculous. Interior plastic is peeling, have had many electrical problems, including brake-relay switch. The VW dealership is a scam. They were aware of this problem and wanted to charge full cost for diagnostics to "find" the problem (which turned out to be a "recall") I will not buy another VW simply because of the dealership.

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  Great & Dependable - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By No major complaints - July 16 - 2:13 pm

  Ive had the car 3 years now without any trouble, our second VW (we also have a Beetle). The cargo capacity is terrific, the handling is smooth, the mileage is very good. Overall a great car for the price. One note: VWs do burn oil so I check the level about every 6 weeks or so.

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  Sweet Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By newvwguy - July 14 - 2:00 am

  Went from an Acura to the VW... No regrets!

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  Never buy a VW - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By vwnightmare - July 13 - 2:35 pm

  This is by far the worst car I have ever owned. I bought it used w 100K miles 18 months ago. One month after purchasing, the turbo diesel failed, with significant power loss. I have replaced the waterpump ($500), radiator ($500), brake switch ($180), alternator ($250), and now the transmission is badly going out. The interior is falling apart, the ceiling is hanging, the fabric on the doors is falling off, the glove compartment no longer latches, there are creeks and rattles all over the place. I am so disgusted by the poor quality and poor craftsmaship in vws product. I used to have a toyota b4 this, it ran for 300K miles with out engine or transmission problems. Forget about buying a VW!

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  Needs a little TLC now and then - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By vordy - July 12 - 10:00 am

  We bought our Jetta used with 62k on it. The car is beautiful inside and out, but it does have a few flaws. Like the other reviews on this site, the front window did get stuck in the down position. The problem is not electrical, but the cheap plastic clips that attach the glass to the regulator broke, it cost $150 for a new regulator. The sunroof shade has broken off of the track and is stuck in the headliner preventing the sunroof from sliding open. The trunk light also has a mind of its own. I have never dealt with the dealer since I fix everything myself. On that note, the build quality is excellent. Wish the car was stick, the VR6 is a nice engine.

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  New Jetta 1.8 Turbo - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By john james - July 12 - 10:00 am

  I have not had a new car in 12 years. This one has me feeling young again. Drives and handles like a sports car. Plenty of power on tap. And that wonderful German Engineering. I cannot say enought good things about this car.

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  Great gas mileage and fun to drive. - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By clidaw - July 10 - 6:40 pm

  Ive put over 3000 miles on the VW TDI since 15 March and have enjoyed it immensely. I hit 44 mpg on a trip from Memphis to Indianapolis and still had 3 gallons in the tank when I filled up only a half mile from my house. The car doesnt have as much kick as the VW Jetta 1.8T (our second car), but it is close and improves the gas mileage by over 10mpg. Gas mileage does take a hit going over 70, but you could probably get close to 50 going between 55-60. I wasnt about to get run off the interstate to find out. The stereo features a great sound stage because of the extra speakers, and the 16cf is great. In response to an earlier review, the car does have brakes that do work well.

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  Jetta 1.8Turbo - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By D White - July 8 - 2:00 am

  Great car overall. Could use a little more headroom, but then, I am pretty tall and every car needs more headroom.

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  modern time Yugo - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By VWneverAgain. - July 8 - 2:00 am

  it would be nice if you could be sure about that it will start up, get you safely from place A to B and have relatively cheap parts - the basics! This car aint it. Sensors, windows, numerous electrical problems, burning oil at 60,000, brake wear quickly, slipping clutch...

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  TDI Torque - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jedi TDI - July 8 - 2:00 am

  This is my 4th VW, 1st Diesel. The Diesel torque is great, it allows me to pass 10MPG SUVs with ease, smiling all the way of course. The car is well built (0 problems so far), responsive, and fun to drive. The fact that it returns greta MPG and low maintenence are pluses. Yes, the oil changes are expensive, but there is little other maintenence required, no Spark Plugs, coils, wires, etc. Would buy/recommend TDI to anyone who wants high low end torque, great MPG and low maintenence. Of course, there is that Diesel clatter at idle, but that is music to my ears. The TDI engine is very quiet at speed, due to the low revs at highway speed.