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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  Very Happy with 2008 Jetta - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Bill Johnson - June 30 - 8:43 am

  My wife wanted a BMW. This car is as close as u could come without the price. Jetta is tight, quiet and quick. the 170 hp 5 cylinder is quiet, fast and fun but i can get 37 mpg on highway. Wife and I are very different is likes and dislikes. This car came as a GREAT compromise for us. It fits any occasion we have come across so far. I am very happy so far 12,000 and no hint of any problem to take it back to the dealer.

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  Powerful, efficient and FUN to drive! - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Zuno78 - June 29 - 7:50 am

  As an owner of an ‘84 300D Turbo Diesel Benz for over 10 years, I knew it would be worth waiting for the ’09 Jetta TDI. Two weeks after purchasing my Loyal Edition, I remain extremely satisfied. This car has amazing torque output! I can feel the quiet diesel engine purring under the hood as it speeds effortlessly down the road. The firm ride adds to the feel that Im driving a tamed beast! Months of research convinced me that no other car gives you the value the TDI offers. At an average of 44.7 mpg on the highway this past weekend, I am convinced this is an unbeatable deal that will last for years to come.

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  Platinum Gray Jetta SEL - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Kevin P. - June 29 - 5:16 am

  Leasing my new Jetta was one of the best decision Ive made when it comes to choosing a vehicle. I purchased a 2016 Toyota Corolla back in November of 2015. After a few months of being an owner I realized I made a huge mistake. ( CVT transmission was intrusive, quality was terrible ( many different rattles inside the cabin, sounded like a tin can when closing the doors. etc). The Jetta has the Corolla beat in every category (technology, performance, comfort and last but not least QUALITY! Needles to say, I am very happy with Volkswagen. I would highly recommend the Jetta to anyone who is looking to purchase or lease a new car.

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  Very please so far - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By KNSCAR - June 27 - 10:00 am

  After a lot of research and test driving I decided on a 2004 GLI 1.8T. Very pleased I am. This car is a blast to drive, I will admit that the fuel consumption could be better but I cant help but step on it when I get the chance. I would not change much but an armrest would be a nice touch and a little more room in the back. Overall for the money this car is great.

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  This Is A Great Car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ChrisBoston - June 27 - 10:00 am

  This car is to be applauded. I spent well under 20K for it and it has many perks. The interior is well-designed, especially the dashboard and sci-fi lighting. It has a stylish exterior and more than enough pep for my needs. I have had the car for 9 months with zero problems. It has been really fun to drive.

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  I Got a Lemon - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tim Maynard - June 27 - 4:56 am

  This car has had nothing but problems since day one. First the bolts holding the door panels on fell out of the passengerÂ’s rear door. Second, I have had a rough Idle that VW is unable to fix since about 5,000 miles. I turned in the BBB and they said it wasnt a serious enough problem even though is has been around for 20,000 miles, and five months. Next I opened my trunk one day and water came pouring out of my trunk lid, bad seal around rear light. Lastly and most dangerous, I rear-end another car and caused almost $8,000 in damage to the car and the air bags did not deploy. Luckily I was not hurt. The front impact sensor was destroyed, as well as many other parts. Dont buy this car!

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  Volkswagen Jetta GLX - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jonathan - June 26 - 2:10 pm

  My 2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 has given me no problems at all. Its my first car ever. I love the nice interior, the car drives perfectly, and I havent had any trouble with it at all. People always say that theyre having problem with this car but it depends on the person and how they take care of it such as getting the oil changes, topping off all the liquids, and things of that nature. It has great horsepower. I have nothing but respect for this car.

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  Dont Buy VW Jetta - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By khalo - June 24 - 7:06 am

  I bought Jetta 02, August 2007. I spent lot money in repair, in 9 months cost me lot. Lot of electric problems, and interior falling apart. In 9 months the car been in the shop more than 6 times, never fixed. Dont buy it. Thanks

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  Piece of Dung - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ovaleye - June 24 - 2:00 am

  Those who give it praise now will indeed curse this car in the future. I have seen people judge their cars by whether or not they were stranded while driving. This car has stranded me 6 times since purchased in May 1999. That may not seem like much to other Jetta drivers (who probably have not been this fortunate), but I can assure you that it has been quite a disappointing journey for me. I will not go into detail about what has happened to this car during the last three years, due to limited space! Lets just say that I have put nearly $5000 into this car since after the 24000 mile mark!

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  A Huge Disappointment!! - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By TrickyKid75 - June 24 - 2:00 am

  Within 2 months, my O2 sensor needed replacing. Then I had a brake light that refused to flicker but stayed on. Thank god I was still under warranty! Less than a year later, my speedometer dropped and after two diagnostic tests, it was revealed I need a new instrument cluster. Soon after another O2 sensor was required. Then, following the O2 sensor recall, I was back in the shop for a Mass Air Flow sensor replacement. Also, the metal under my backseat window moldings began rusting within 2 years. Overall, youre better putting your money into KMart than a 99 GL Jetta.