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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  Jetta sportwagon SEL manual - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By eurosteve - September 19 - 3:53 pm

  This is a great car! Buy it. It gets better gas mileage than my mini cooper S. Its fast, corners wonderfully. Is a great family car for 5. Its a GTI with kids. I still dont know why people buy minivans. Its hard to keep it under 95. Had it for a year without any regrets. Oh by the way, either get a manual transmission, or ride a bicycle instead.

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  Fun to drive, but MANY quirks - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jfromphilly - September 17 - 4:09 pm

  My Jetta got totaled a few weeks back. She was a great car in many ways, (fast, fun to drive, gas efficient) & I got 130,000 miles out of her. However, I decided not to get another Jetta. Here are a few of the reasons: -Anytime theres a repair (and there will be many) you will pay $1000, minimum. -REEKS of crayons. (inevitably the first comment anyone makes setting foot inside the car) -Strange clicking noise coming from the turn signal -Lights turn on and wont turn off again (had to have the mechanic take them apart to get them off) -The electrical outlet/cig lighter stopped working a month in & after multiple repair attempts I had to just give up on it

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  What a blast! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Team Young - September 15 - 8:40 pm

  I was looking for a 4 door car with a manual tranny that was fun to drive, has some get-up & go and wasnt going to break the bank. I think I found the best car out there that fit those requirements. I puchased it used from a private party. He took good care of it and had all records and services and the local VW garage. It has run great! It jumps off the line and has plenty zip. Watch out or a speeding ticket will follow. I did a lot or research before I purchased this car and there was some talk about the engine problems but I think most of those are with the newer version that came out in the start of 2003. Mine has the 174 HP motor and it runs great with no problems. I love the tight cornering and the handling is awesome!

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  Has some problems, Love it anyway - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By midna139 - September 14 - 12:14 am

  Although it had some issues, like needing the ignition system replaced (Around $400 DIY), I love this car. Ive been getting good gas milage and adequate performance. Mine has just over 160,000 miles on it, though the previous owner mistreated it. If you dont want to do any DIY car repair, I would not recommend this car. Otherwise, go for it. I use mine to get to and from school every day along with the occasional road trip and have never had any reliability issues with it. If you do get one, get yourself a good service manual and a metric socket set. I have the GLX 2.8L VR6 engine with the five speed manual transmission.

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  Jetta Review - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By lrhodes - September 13 - 2:00 am

  Vehicle is fun to drive and performs well. The downside is the higher dollar maintenance cost.

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  It has its quirks, but I love it! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mickeyt52 - September 12 - 3:32 pm

  My GLX seemed have led a rough life before I bought it, but fortunately, the guy religiously changed his oil. Many K-miles later, the engine is very quiet and very smooth. So, that gave me room to spend cash on all the neglected stuff...now its a sweet ride. Ive read a lot of these reviews, and one thing Ive come away with is to NOT buy one of these Jettas w/ high miles if your not somewhat mechanically inclined or dont know a really good VW mechanic. But if you dont mind tinkering now and then, these cars can be a blast to drive, and customize as well. Despite their idiosyncrasies, there is a strong network of enthusiasts, many of whom will gladly share their knowledge and experience.

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  Disappointed - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Sick Of It - September 11 - 10:00 am

  This is my 2nd Jetta and Im extremely disappointed. Cupholders have been replaced twice. Glove box replaced twice. Battery died after 12 months??? Trunk motor went on the fritz, causing the trunk to continually pop open. 02 Sensor issue. Interior seat material does not wear well at all. Brakes needed to be replaced too soon for me. Too many little things for a lease car. Im willing to pay anything to get out of it. Never again!

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  my car - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Titus - September 11 - 10:00 am

  I have had my car for a while now, and the attention to detail that VW has put into the car amazes me everyday. The features theat the car has is great, from heated seats to self adjsting mirrors, to automatic windshield wipers. THE car is perfect, the R6 engine sounds great but it does comsume a whole lot of gas. I average about 20- 25 miles a gallon.

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  Great Little Sedan - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Venus - September 9 - 7:46 pm

  I love this car! I admit I wish it had more power like the VR6 but it still has some kick to it. It is my first car and I can honestly say Im hooked on VW design and reliabity. It gives me a sense of comfort as I have not had to repair any thing major (one small thing only). This car has the great styling only a European car can offer without the expensive price tag an Audi has.

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  It’s not the German VW - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Sam - September 7 - 7:33 pm

  Bought this 2.5 Jetta new over 32kCND in Canada in 2006. First class maintenance with VW dealer and paint looks like new. Most of the drive on Hwy and no drive on manual mode. The fact is the transmission slips at gear 3, 4 and then 2 at 192k km (120kmiles). It’ll cost too much to rebuild or replace the transmission (VW quoted over $6kCND +tax replace). I expected to run this VW 250-300k km but only 190k km. So, it’s almost no value now. It is a good looking small VW. Pro: Looks like very well made car even after 10 years. Con: Loudly drive, too much bumping on Hwy. Overall: cost, small, vibration