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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  my first bad car experience - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By asillisa - August 13 - 10:00 am

  Ive had this car 3.5 years, and SO much has gone wrong with it, more than any other car Ive had (even used ones!). The laundry list: the oil basically disappeared 1000 miles after a change; the air conditioner broke, thankfully a month before the warranty was up; both front door lock mechanisms broke; cup holder broke; lighting on temp control panel shorted out (permanently); front bumper grill pieces popped out - bumper caught on every parking spot block and finally pulled off; rear brakes went out at 26000 miles. Unbelievable. I love the new Passats AND the Audis, but after this, Ill never buy another German car.

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  VW sells LEMONS and doesnt care - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Carnage - August 13 - 10:00 am

  The car itself would be great if it didnt break down every 2 weeks. The WORST part of it all is the VW customer service. If you EVER have a problem, they will laugh at you and tell you tough luck. They sold me a lemon, and they wont take responsibility for it. My car has broken 8 times in under 2 months. DOCUMENTED evidence. Better Business Bureau case opened against VW, still VW doesnt care.

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  Zippy, for a diesel - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By chsmaine - August 13 - 10:00 am

  Ive had many VWs and this one is terrific, like the others. The turbodiesel is quick to start and doesnt smoke a bit when driving or in traffic. The car feels like it has more than 90 hp, as the torque is so strong. No need to downshift on hills or to pass. Low RPMs on the highway make for quiet cruising. Lots of headroom (no sunroof) and storage space. Mine has the updated console with 3 cupholders (slide the rear one back and it holds a large water bottle in the gap provided by the slider.) Great feel through the steering wheel and suspension. Rides like a much larger car. No complaints.

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  customer care is a joke! - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By m. Kinney - August 11 - 6:16 am

  You should know that once you bought the car, if anything goes wrong, you are on your own my friend. Bought a new 2011 Jetta and maintained in impeccably and at 114,00 miles the turbo blew(not supposed to). I now have at 22,000 dollar car, less than four years old that is pretty much worth scrap. Customer care, all the way up to Volkswagen top supervisor, told me with deep sincerity, there was nothing they could do and felt no responsibility since my warranty had expired. Does Volkswagen stand behind their product in any way? This company has no sense of fairness toward their customer. Sincerely, broke and carless

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  Its Worth More as Scrap Metal - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jim - August 9 - 7:50 pm

  I have a 1999.5 Volkswagen Jetta and for starters, Im on my second engine. The recalls, the small glitches, the leaky trunk, the fact that the computer randomly decides to lock the doors, the countless repairs. AUGH! I fell into the trap of "just one more repair" but after this latest alternator fiasco, forget it. Im too embarrassed to tell you how much I spent on the car thus far.

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  Bang for the Buck - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By J.B. - August 9 - 2:13 am

  Youd be hard-pressed to find a combination of styling and features in a similar car. After driving the Passat V6 and Jetta VR6/1.8T, I opted for the 2002 GLS 1.8T w/ every option available. It was just a fun car to drive. It was a tough car to find (9/01), so the dealer tried to give me the supply & demand surcharges for silver, rare options, etc. YouÂ’ll experience the same headache with the New Beetle Turbo S about now. Needless to say, I worked a good price and have been extremely pleased.

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  New: Impressions by a Civc and Jetta Own - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Boyd82 - August 6 - 12:16 pm

  After a few days with my Jetta, Im amazed at the detail of the interior and exterior compared to my Civic. Too early to really gauge the fuel economy, but the performance of the car in handling, power, and braking is superb. Besides all that: it is super comfortabl to drive and the stick shift is easy and smooth. Im looking forward to many years with it.

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  dontgetajetta - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By twu - August 6 - 10:00 am

  The car was great the first 2 years, but once the warranty ended so did the customer service. The past 4 months Ive had the air flow sensor, battery, oil pan, and catalytic converter replaced. Still waiting for the cat. after 1.5 months. The driver side window has fallen into the door.

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  Dont buy one - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Kat_13th - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I have had my car for 2 years and had nothing but problems. Within the first 4 months, the secondary air pump in the car went (but when I took it to another VW dealership they didnt know what I was talking about). Brakes went at 22,000 mi. Now the car is due back soon and they said that there is $1000 dollars worth of work that needs to be done because my car wont start. They said the air pump is done again and the relays are out and the battery is dead. I replaced the battery 2 weeks ago and it is dead again. Never again! Everyone I know that had one between 2000 to 2002 has had nothing but problems.

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  get one - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jojoi - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I love the car! runs fast and easy to drive-takes the mountains well. I am now looking into the deisel wagon so I can have more space for luggage.