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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  Just got my Jetta - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By piggy - March 1 - 2:00 am

  This car is really sporty and fun to drive. Lots of room in the trunk. Great sounding stereo. The car sold itself and I have had no complaints. Comfortable, functional, fun.

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  makes me more mad every day - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jd - February 28 - 10:06 pm

  I bought my 2004 gli 1.8t in April of 2004. I test drove a R32 first, but the gli caught my eye. I drove it next and liked its performance and style. At around 2,000 miles a loud sound started coming from the rear somewhere, it almost sounds like brakes , but I wonder if its some kind of tension on metal. Anyway its anoying as it can be. Also, the gear shifter keeps poping off. I have taken the car to the dealership to get both of these problems fixed. They told me that they fixed the shifter but its still doing it. They told me that they couldnt figure out the noise in the rear and to bring it the car back some other time. Its got 16,000 on it now and is pissing me off more each day.

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  Oil Burner - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Kookie - February 28 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car for the looks and the 100,000 mile warranty(Engine).At 15,000 miles the temperature gauge went out,then the dealer wanted to replace the rear rotors for $400.What a joke, another dealer said the rotors were OK. This car burns oil since day one, 1 quart every 1,000 miles...V W says it,s OK.I am very disapointed with this car.I will never buy a V W again.Give me a Honda anyday.Now I know why V W recommends to change the oil every 10,000 miles...The oil is always new,since it burns so much oil, why even bother changing it?Just replace the oil filter.

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  Jetta TDI Wagon - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By tdinut - February 26 - 10:00 am

  I love this vehicle.

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  Love that Jetta! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Gene - February 26 - 9:40 am

  As a new owner, I have found that it is too close to the high beam switch. This is my second Jetta. I had the old style and when I traded it there was 199,000 miles in it. I love the new style and performance with the independent rear suspension and 10 extra horse power. The new style is really beautiful. I wouldnt buy anything else. I was told I would average 41 mpg highway and I am averaging 47 on the highway. As always, VW has under promised and over delivered. This is an OUTSTANDING vehicle.

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  Fun to drive but Thirsty - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mikey - February 26 - 3:26 am

  The car is really fast and handles really well. The only "negative" thing I got to say is that its too thirsty (and its Premium also). I get about 450km per full tank driving normal, and 350 km per tank driving fast, but I still LOVE it!!!

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  You can have it all! - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Randy - February 24 - 10:43 pm

  I traded a 2003 Jetta TDI for this and it is everything the 2003--that I liked--was times 4. Mine has only the gorilla mats option and I cant think of anything else I would have wanted. The quality is much better than the 2003 (fit, finish, etc). The electronics are superb. Road sound is almost non-existent. The engine is just fantastic. Great power and quiet. I get 36 MPG on the low side and 46+ on the highway. I average around 39-40 and NOTHING is flat where I live, all up and down hills. In a flat region of the country, I have no doubt 50+ MPG would be easy.

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  Great idea not realized - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Bitter Sweet - February 23 - 10:00 am

  The excitment of owning my Jetta was short lived. In the 1.5 years that Ive owned my Jetta it has blown 2 fuses, the secondary air pump has gone out on it, the window brackets have broken 4 times and the windows have fallen inside the doors, the soft finish on the door handles and console inside the car have peeled off, the antenna had to be replaced, I had a braking malfunction, the sunroof wasnt working properly, the rear brakes went out within 24000 miles, electrical problems causing the brake lights not to work, sputtering upon starting the car, rough power surges while accelerating, and the interior shows every stain and picks up everything.

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  Jetta is a lemon. - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By VWowner - February 23 - 10:00 am

  The 2000 Jetta we have has been in the shop about every six to eight weeks for something. The engine is noisy, the ride is harsh, the radio is tinny sounding. A real disappointment.

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  2003 and STILL kickin - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By oldvolkshome - February 23 - 8:36 am

  I purchased my 2003 1.8T Jetta 5-speed new. Aside from a new water pump at 60k miles (normal) and a faulty coil over arc this car is the best car I have ever owned. It is now 2011 and have 100k miles with original brake pads and original clutch and trans. The car runs beautifully.. It helps A LOT if you drive your car gently and DONT "over tach" and screech your tires! When it comes to having a good or bad car, its a 50/50 thing. Just getting lucky and picking a good one combined with how you drive it and maintain it. I highly recommend using synthetic oil. I have used Mobil 1 from day one and my motor doesnt burn a DROP of oil 100k miles later. Love your car & it will love you back!!