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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  All-around great car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jettadriver - June 24 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for almost 3 years now and with 38,000 miles on, have never experienced any problems with the car. Great German handling and quality, really puts Japanise and American competitiors to shame.

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  Love my TDI - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Diesel Fitter - June 22 - 6:23 pm

  Ive owned my TDI since July of 2000. It was purchased specifically for the gas mileage and I have not been disappointed. We have a condo in St. Augustine, FL and I made it there from my house in southern NJ on a tank and a half of fuel ... 52 MPG. I never get less than 42 MPG with this car. Only problems with this car have been the front windows suddenly falling into the door (recall), a mass air sensor going (recall), and this car eats brake light bulbs. Unlike a lot of the reviews I think the front cup holders are great and was disappointed that the new Jetta deleted them along with the adjustable armrest. Looking forward to buying a new Jetta Sportwagen TDI.

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  Traded in....what a relief! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Chelle - June 19 - 10:26 am

  I loved my Jetta VR6. When purchased I made sure it had all the bells and whistles...I was in love. It didnt take long for it to start letting me down.. AC went out- Heated seats went out- water pump went out- windows rattled until a piece finally broke. Last week I was told the transmission was leaking which was the culprit of the engine light coming on over and over. In a nutshell I loved this car. It was so much fun to drive and design was great... I was forced in to parting with it because mechanically it began giving way far too early. I had regular maintenance and it didnt help prevent problems. I would never buy another Jetta or any VW for that matter. Gone back to Honda, like home!

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  Jetta - 3rd Time Around - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jakeman - June 19 - 9:06 am

  This is my 3rd VW Jetta and so far is my favorite. I had two earlier models and this one is a much better car. I really enjoy driving it. Even the S was enough. Wheel upgrades are a must over the hideous hubcaps. Buy some online or upgrade at the dealer to one of the VW wheels. I went with the 17" Goal wheels and they are awesome looking. Make the car complete. Also added the silver taillights, What a good look that is.

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  Lovein my new SportWagon - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mike - June 18 - 11:23 pm

  I was really wanting something affordable, but the Rabbits were too small and the Jettas were a bit boring. The SportWagon was perfect because it was affordable ($20 k)and very cool and different looking. Its one of the few cars you can drive that is truly unique. The quality of the materials is amazing for such an affordable car. Its definitely not as boss as my wifes Passat (4 cylinder turbo), but for the price is fantastic. I recommend the manual transmission to avoid the slight delay on take off found in other V-dubs. This should be anyones list who wants a beautiful, roomy, fuel efficient, fun to drive car. Nothing compares to it for the price.

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  A great value for the Volkswagen Buyer - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jd749 - June 18 - 6:10 pm

  The Jetta GLS 1.8T Jetta is a great buy for this market segment. The BMW 325i was only other option based on size, performance, and features. After two years and 40,000 miles, Ive had 180 hp, 30 mpg, and only 3 warranty repairs. Ive been on multiple 700+ mile trips with no problems. Its fast, fun, and the insurance isnt bad for a turbo car. A host of performance upgrades and customized parts are available as well. With the same powerplant as the Audi TT you can be assured this engine has the performance and German engineering one could need. Look for a model with a 5-speed transmission, leather interior, and the Sport Pkg. if your in the market for one!

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  Bargain A4 - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jacob Palenske - June 18 - 2:00 am

  I owned a 2001 GTI 1.8T and unwisely traded it in for a Honda Accord EXV6 Coupe. I will never leave the VW group again. My Jetta has power to spare and handles like a dream. I love the interior and the Monsoon stereo is amazing. I drove the Mazda 6s, Nissan Altima 3.5SE and an Audi A4 1.8T and the Jetta was better to drive than all, and built like the A4. My only issue has been a door rattle. Remember...when you buy a Jetta you get a smaller $22k Audi A4. When you spend $26k for a 3.5SE Altima you get a $16k. It shows. One last thing...The Turbo is more fun and has a much more flexible engine...save your cash and skip the V6.

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  1st timer very happy - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By 1st time VW owner - June 16 - 4:06 am

  Ive had my 08 SE model for 2 months now and could not be happier. The SE is the way to go with the leather interior, sunroof, and AMAZING 10 speaker sound system. I also got the ipod adapter and am very happy with (although shuffle is not an option on my playlists, but I may need to research in the manual) The interior is spacious and the TRUNK is HUGE! The satellite radio is great. The exterior is extremely stylish, it has everything for a great price. Nothing else compares in its class, I did a lot of research. I am also happy with the fuel efficiency.

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  Buyer Beware.... - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ltrn - June 14 - 12:41 am

  Ive had my 2006, 2.5 L automatic Jetta for about 3 years and I cant understand how it gets good reliability ratings. My car has 67,000 miles and has had a number of high-priced repairs. It seems like the check engine light in tthis car come on regularly. So far I had an emission problem, replaced a CV joint boot, and most notably replaced the large fan (the large fan repair was nearly $500). Im going back to my Toyota dealership and if my gas pedal sticks, I will still have a more reliable car!

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  Best car ever - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Crystal Morris-Stromberg - June 14 - 12:39 am

  I love my car. Its powerful, fun, and efficient. It has 230k miles and I still love it. Only had the timing chain replaced and the glow plugs replaced and its still running strong. About 40 mpg going 80 mph on the highway.