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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  Great Car Overall - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By michaelb1850 - October 5 - 3:20 pm

  I purchased this car new. Ive had many of the same cosmetic problems as others, ie.. broken window regulator (twice, driver side), broken glove box, broken armrest cover, cup holder. Ive had multiple teenage drivers, its been in the body shop more than once. Mechanically its a wonder! It is now 13 years old with over 275,000 mi on it and it is still on the original engine and transmission (automatic). The only major maintenance has been replacing the timing belt three times I think and a coolant pump. Ive had to replace the blower fan and am now having problems with the A/C control but hey, its 13 yo. If they can get the cosmetic things fixed it would be perfect. Getting 22 - 25 mpg.

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  Crown Victoria to Jetta TDI - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Beetle Juice - October 4 - 4:50 pm

  After driving a Ford Crown Victoria for 18 years, it is going to take a while to get used to a smaller car where I feel and hear more of the road than I would like. The 16-inch rims and low profile tires give the car a sporty feel but I prefer the smoother ride of a large sedan. I took the Mercury Milan Hybrid on a test drive first but it was priced too high. It was smoother and quieter than the Jetta. I am impressed with the fuel efficiency after 500 miles. I am getting 34 mpg city and 47 highway while driving between 65-70 mph. When the piston rings are seated and the car is more broken in, I expect to do better.

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  rewarding vehicle - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jack witty - October 3 - 9:16 pm

  Over 600 miles in the first two weeks of ownership. Great car. Easy to enter and exit.Handles well,comfortable, great visibility,performance and economy.Got 42.5 mpg on the first tank. 600 plus miles per tank easy to obtain.Great trunk space.We got the black with cornsilk interior, sunroof,dsg tran,17 inch wheels,southern package,ipod adapter. I have owned at leats 40 cars and this is a good one. It rivals the several mercedes I have owned in the past.I also have a 2008 Accord v6 and a 05 Tahoe. Great combination of vehicles. If you are considering a Honda or a VW..go with the TDI. It makes the vehicle.

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  2005 Jetta - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By SpecialJohnny - October 3 - 2:23 pm

  The brakes are very loud. My brakes have made noise from almost day one. The stealership has not replaced or done anything. I hand wash the wheels and car and the problem is with brake dust. Other than that good car to drive. Nice performance. So the first mod should be new aftermarket brake pads and forget trying to get VW to do something.

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  JUNK - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kgneuro - September 30 - 10:00 am

  When I purchased "Molly", I was hooked! Great style, fun to drive, so much spunk and personality!!! I was obcessed with her... washing, waxing, birthday parties, "doctors appts." (scheduled maintenance.THEN.... my ignition coil blew, my computer system blew, my power windows broke, my air conditioning broke, my brake lights went out, my brake rotors rusted out, and my "premium BBS wheels"... are splitting and peeling (due to my climate I am told). However, I can replace for 560.00 EACH! Yeah, right. Did I mention this was all in 3(!) months and my warranty ran out?? Shes on her way now to the Honda dealership to find a new home!

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  Its not you, its me... - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Sissie99 - September 29 - 6:33 am

  Dear Jetta- Its not you its me. I think we need to go our separate ways. Ill have fond thoughts of you and the places that we have been, but then I will remember all the pain you caused me and the burning sensation on my credit card. I cant handle the trips to the shop, the dirty looks from the service people, the days of missed work because you broke down and despite what my Dad says, he does not like working on you. I have had every problem under the sun with you except the burning oil thing. Thank God for small favors. Im sorry your window broke and that your thermostat doesnt work and that you have a leaky cooling system. I hope you find a good home when I trade you in or sell you. Love- Me

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  Not for those over 58 - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By K - September 29 - 6:00 am

  I am so disappointed in my car. I am almost 5 9" and can not get comfortable in my seat at all. I started having back problem within about 2 months of having car and now my knee (which only hurts getting out of my car) It sits way too low. I had a bigger vehicle before this purchase and thought I wanted something smaller and more fuel efficient. I am getting low 20s for is partly due to the way I drive, it I can take off fast I do. This is definitely not the vehicle for me. Oh and I had no idea until someone told me weeks later that I needed premium gas due to the turbo engine. So I am paying the same for gas as I was for my larger vehicle. Very disappoint I chose this vehicle. If tall avoid.

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  Fun little car with some quirky issues - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Andrew - September 28 - 8:33 pm

  First thing, I love my Jetta. Despite its tiny 115hp, it is a blast to drive thanks to the manual transmission, great steering and fun ride. I have owned my Jetta for three years now, and have had very few issues. I live in Wisconsin, and this car surprised the hell out of my friends who had trucks and SUVs by its performance in heavy snow and ice. For some reason, it is unstoppable in winter weather. I am also 6ft 1 and have plenty of head and legroom while driving. I am disappointed with the gas mileage, I usually average 26 mpg combined, but have gotten 31-32 mpg on long highway trips. The biggest downside with this powertrain is undoubtedly the engine. I frequently have difficulty passing or I have to downshift 2 gears to make it up a small hill. I wouldnt mind if the return was excellent mileage but the mileage as I mentioned is somewhat mediocre for a car of this size. My only truly negative experience was an EPC censor that would put my car in limp mode. The censor randomly would go off when I would start it, and acceleration was limited and the car would max out at 50mph. I took it to several mechanics and a dealer and eventually found out that a botched repair from a previous owner was to blame. Just be careful with these cars though, as the electronics are really touchy and can be expensive to fix. Other than that, I love my car and have had no other mechanical issues to speak of. I highly recommend this car as a cheap, fun to drive car that isnt as vanilla as a Ford, Chevy or Hyundai.

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  Love my Jetta - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By littlebird - September 28 - 6:26 pm

  I bought the 1.8T with the sports package 225/45/17 and the car handles great I also took the manual transmission. So far so good. Dont like the cup holders blocking the stereo controls but that is it.

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  jettas rock - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By smitty - September 27 - 1:40 pm

  I love my VW jetta its fun to drive handles like its on rails and runs like a cat especially when we go driving in the mountains