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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  appreciate - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jayant - June 17 - 2:00 am

  that this car is best and safest

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  Very Happy Owner - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By J. Avedikian - June 16 - 11:50 pm

  I was very suprised at how powerful the 2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLIs engine is a low rpms. I also have a 225 Audi TT and this sedan out performs it. The DSG transmission is amazing with lighting fast shits that no one in a manual could match. I am still not crazy about the tail lights, but everything else outweighs them. Im sure an aftermarket option will be available. I looked at the Audi A3 and felt the Jetta GLI was a better value since almost everything that was an add on in the A3 was standard or in Pacakage 2 of the Jetta. Ive owned two other Jettas and two GTIs and this GLI has everything Ive ever wanted in a VW.

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  Jetta137 - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jetta137 - June 14 - 11:20 am

  This is my fifth VW Jetta. This car is the best one that I have ever had. I have never had a problem with it. The Jetta GLI is nice but not reliable. It also doesnt have heated seats, armrest, and more stuff. The GLS has got EVERYTHING. Its a luxury car. The GLS is better for transportation. Right now my Jetta has 74,500 miles. It is a great car and fun to drive. You will love the GLS TURBO. What a great car!

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  My favorite car to date. - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Phillipk - June 13 - 7:40 am

  I have had mine for 6 months and have absolutely no complaints. It drives wonderfully and the winter package is especially great in Minnesota. I also looked at the Honda Accord and Volvo S40. One change Id recommend, add Bluetooth like the Jetta in Europe. The button is there, but it does nothing.

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  Pretty good - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mike - June 13 - 4:26 am

  Ive only owned Hondas and one Subaru (a WRX) before this car, and I wanted something different and cheaper. I got a really low lease on this car. This car is fine. Its anonymous, comfortable-just real easy to live with. Its different than Japanese cars, though. It makes weird noises, and some of the controls seem counterintuitive. Ive had absolutely no reliability problems so far, which is unexpected.

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  A Lada would be better - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Ripped Off - June 11 - 10:00 am

  This is the worst built car I have ever purchased. I have had it for 15 months and the doors have twitched and squeaked since I drove it off the lot. (Dealer has tried several times to repair with no success. They are also a piece of work. They have basically given up on the car and wonÂ’t even follow up on my calls.) Also, the brake light switch, the turn signal relay and the ventilation fan motor have had to be replaced. There is a problem with a noise coming from the front suspension. The front left power window usually re-opens when it is closed on auto-up. The paint seems very soft as it chips very easily. Overall, a Lada would be a better bet.

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  Goodness... Where to begin!? - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By gary12345 - June 11 - 10:00 am

  12k miles I have already taken it in 5 times, most recently 2 of my gears in my windows melting which will have my car in service for 20 days. 4k miles check engine light goes on and car dies on freeway. dealership laughs at me almost dieing than steals my keychain when I go get my house key from them. 5k miles front window breaks when Im washing my car in 75 degree weather, and in the shade, also knocking on right weel when I reverse. This car is a pile of crap built in Mexico. Do not buy a VW unless you have a crush on the mechanics because you will be there a lot.

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  Classy Small Car - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mike - June 8 - 2:56 pm

  My car has the 2.0L engine and the "Cold Weather" upgrade (seat warmers, leather seats, steering wheel controls). I like the look and size of this car over the new Jetta design. I get about 35 mpg with conservative highway driving(not hybrid numbers but at least its a PZEV), and while its not a race car, it moves with plenty of purpose. The proof of this is was driving with college students in all 5 seats, a full trunk of luggage and 3 bikes on a trunk rack, and still having power to pass on the highway(of course the mileage was not the best on this trip). I keep up with maintenance and care, the reliability on the early model years was not great but it seems problems were fixed on this year

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  Sad I sold, buying a new one - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By golfer18 - June 8 - 10:00 am

  I have owned 2 jetta tdis, a 98 and 02. this review is for 02, beautiful car, cool look, exc gas mileage at 53mpg at best, tank range i maxed at 765 then i got nervous and filled up. Loved both cars, but dumped the 02 due to some aesthetic quality issues. I had a door/window rattle that had me take it back to dealer 6 times in a year. Despite ripping car apart, removing seats, etc, damaging the vehicle during repair etc, it was never fixed to satisfaction. I pursued lemon law, but found a buyer in the meantime and sold the car. I miss it though and will likely buy a new jetta 04 or passat 04 turbodiesel only. .

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  Turning Heads - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By CSM1969 - June 8 - 10:00 am

  The new GLI 1.8T (2004) has got to be one of the most explosive Jettas yet. Everywhere I go, people are oohing and aahing at the sleek (european) styling, that of BMW and Mercedes.Your everyday demeanor flies out of the window as soon as you let out the clutch and the daily stresses seem to have disappeared when shifting into 6th gear. I have found myself early to rise on the weekends, so I can get my car onto the mountain roads of Colorado where the GLI is at home.