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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  Craptastic Car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By LAR - March 14 - 10:00 am

  I bought my VW in May of 2002. It was a great car for the summer, but once I moved up North the problems started. The doors squeak incessantly -- taken to the dealership 4 times, been told they were fixed each time, but still have a squeak. The only option they gave me was to tighten the doors, but then I would have to shut them harder, causing rattles down the road... Passenger side window fell into the door, followed by a giant (10") spring flying out from under the seat. The drivers side door handle is covered by some material that began peeling off the day I drove it off the lot. Im waiting to Lemon Law!!

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  My First Jetta or VW for that Matter - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By TripVWowner - March 13 - 12:13 pm

  I really like this car, I think the exterior styling which is considered bland by some is sort of sporty and elegant and it shares the same large chrome grille feature as VWs luxury counterpart, Audi. The car handles very well and I have the base 2.5L 5-cylinder engine which may not be race car fast but does the job. I notice that the car is very heavy for its class and I like this as it helps keep the car feeling more stable at highway speeds.

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  Bad Buy - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JMull - March 13 - 5:30 am

  This car is horrible. I brought it brand new and have had it fixed about seven times. I would not recommend this car to anyone. This was the first car that I brought myself, and is nothing but a dissapointment. It was never a smooth ride. It has always been to loud. I can not wait till the day I can afford to get another car. No more Volkswagens for me.

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  Great Car...Engine noise when cold - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Stu - March 13 - 4:13 am

  Previously have driven the Passat since 2003. Lease every 2 years. First experience with the Jetta. When starting from cold, annoying engine noise until motor warms up. Usually only last for 15 seconds or so...but very noticeable. Dealer tells me the oil needs to get into the lifters b4 noise will go away. Havent found any recalls or so regarding this condition. Miss the 2.0 turbo. What a treat to drive that engine. Perfect fit for the VW line.

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  Best car I ever bought - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tim - March 12 - 10:46 am

  Buying this car was one of the best decisions I ever made. Im extremely happy. Quiet, smooth, quick, reliable, safe. I can go on and on.

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  Wonderful Value - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Steve - March 12 - 10:15 am

  I bought this car one year old with 12,000 mi, certified at a VW dealership, for $12,700. Its been an excellent car for the money. On a level highway, I routinely get more than 40 mpg. The car is quiet, composed, comfortable, and hasnt had any reliability problems. Its worth taking a look at, especially if you need something simple for commuting. I only wish the car had 6 forward gears as the 5-speed gearing shows some gaps on mountain roads.

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  Wonderful Value - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Steve - March 12 - 10:15 am

  I bought this car one year old with 12,000 mi, certified at a VW dealership, for $12,700. Its been an excellent car for the money. On a level highway, I routinely get more than 40 mpg. The car is quiet, composed, comfortable, and hasnt had any reliability problems. Its worth taking a look at, especially if you need something simple for commuting. I only wish the car had 6 forward gears as the 5-speed gearing shows some gaps on mountain roads.

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  Great car! Fun to drive! - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By glenn savary - March 12 - 5:43 am

  I highly recommend leasing or buying. Great acceleration and handling. Only cons are basic climate control (no temp control or automatic settings) and unable to lock doors manually. Otherwise a great car.

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  Great car! Fun to drive! - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By glenn savary - March 12 - 5:43 am

  I highly recommend leasing or buying. Great acceleration and handling. Only cons are basic climate control (no temp control or automatic settings) and unable to lock doors manually. Otherwise a great car.

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  Loved the car...Big problem - 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kittykat35 - March 10 - 7:44 pm

  Bought the car new..loved the stick,turbo,diesel combination...handled like a proper German sedan..car didnt settle in till 90mph+. At 35K the high-pressure (32000psi) fuel pump failed and sprayed metal fragments through out the fuel system resulting in $5000 repair bill ! Covered under warranty for 1 time but the dealer claimed it was contaminated fuel. Had only used diesel fuel from a high volume station that has city and school district contracts. Come to find out these Bosch pumps are on their 3rd redesign and one of the failure suspects is the low sulfur fuel that has no/reduced lubricants. Owners manual says not to use additives but if you have one be sure use an additive.