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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  Never a VW again!!!! - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By So disappointed! - March 5 - 2:00 am

  1. I heard a big noisy explosion under the hood,the fumes were coming out everywhere, it was the battery that exploded covering all the engine with acid, 2. a fuse block that started to smoke, dealership said everything was fine, came back and had to use the extinguisher to fight the flames coming out of the battery, battery case, fuse blocks and everything around it. 3. had to replace the mass flow sensor (twice) 4. Glove box replaced (twice), 5. O2 sensor, 6. Replace tail lights every three months, 7. having to clean that yellow ooze coming down from the doors,8. Now its overheating but dealer said there is no problem...

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  wont buy one again - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By used to love vw - March 5 - 2:00 am

  I have had nothing but problems with my 01 GLX VR6 sedan. The biggest and most frustrating problem I have had is everytime I would use my rear defroster, the radio would go complete static. VW worked on this for over a year taking my car in over 10 times and finally this month just fixed the problem after a brand new radio ( that wasnt the problem) and finally a new rear window. The first week I had my new car the snaps that on the mats all broke off, my car wouldnt run one night because it was raining and they had to put new coiling in the engine, the drivers heated seat has not been working, the engine is not smooth and many times "skips".

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  good car, xcept for the dash buzzing - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By catbox - March 5 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Jetta, the other a 2000 GL. This Jetta could also use another 100 pounds of barite-loaded foam on the floor, door panels and fender wells. Lots of road noise filters in from the super thin (cheap) side windows and windshield. VW could take a lesson from the 1968/69/70 AMC AMXes on this issue. Windshield is already (1year) scratched and hazed and I use lots of wiper fluid. Dealer complaints: did not honor the zero percent financing, although my credit rating is the highest for my salary range. I will probably dump this car to an individual in another year. Im looking at Subarus next time.

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  Lot of bang for the buck - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By macd12 - March 3 - 10:00 am

  I love my car. Before buying, I test drove more expensive cars (Saab, Audi, Acura), but the Jetta just fit really well. I havent regretted my purchase a bit, and I saved thousands to boot. Its been a blast to drive. It really begs to be driven hard and I indulge that as much as possible. It accelarates quickly and the turbo kicks in at low RPMs to give you instant power - no turbo lag at all. Get the sport package and a stick to fully appreciate it.

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  Great car - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By cdivertdi - March 2 - 11:53 am

  Well, Im 15,000 miles into my TDI. I traded a Mazdaspeed6, that I absolutely loved, but could no longer live with with 20 mpg, for the Jetta TDI. The Jetta is a different animal, with both pros and cons as compared to the Speed6. The only downside is the loss of the raw performance of the Speed6. The Jetta has lived up to my expectations, and the fuel economy has been above expectations! My only complaint in the quality of the speakers, and if Santa comes thru, will be resolved this Xmas! In terms of millage, we just finished a round trip from the NC Triad to Atlanta, with 600+ pounds between passengers and a very full trunk, running 78 to 85 mph with 43 mpg. What a deal,love my Jetta TDI

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  So far so good... - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mdbla - March 1 - 12:25 pm

  Bought this CPO Jetta 1 month ago after owning an Audi A4 for 10 years. The Jetta is a fun car to drive, handles great. Manual transmissions shifts effortlessly. The exterior styling is nice (mine is black with the chrome trim) and the interior is very nice, has a upscale feel to it. Huge trunk! I was hoping with the 5-sp manual Id get the higher miles per gallon (75% freeway, 25% city) but Ive been getting exactly as advertised - 26 mpg. Finally not crazy about the front seats, wish there was more options to adjusting the position. I prefer a more horizontal seat and these have a big angle (6 inches height difference from front to back).

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  Great Car - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Nick R - February 27 - 10:33 pm

  We love this car. Acquired as a lease and will buy it at the end of lease. Havent had any problems with this car and its great to drive around in.

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  Transmission problems - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By josevi - February 25 - 1:50 pm

  I came to the Jetta Wagon from a Civic and it is I came to the Jetta Wagon from a Civic and I have to say that it is a much better car. The cargo capacity is incredible, especially considering its compact size. However, like many European cars, it suffers from electronic gremlins (most of the issues, solved under warranty). More worrying was extensive cylinder work at around 50k miles and a rebuilt transmission at 70k, the latter, according to internet forums being a common issue. Despite its practicality, its comfort and attractive design, I would not recommend that you buy a second-hand one. I am trying to get a couple of years more of mine and will move on to a different brand.

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  Rear Brakes Poor Design - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By 20jetta07 - February 25 - 4:16 am

  The rear brakes are design to be replace (Pads + Rotors) every 15,000 miles no matter how much you use them. I use this as a commute car and I will never buy a VW again because of this issue. I like the car but I can NOT believe that VW has this problem and will not correct it. This is an on going problem from the 2000. If you hear a thud in the rear brake area you have a problem that will cost you $400.00 because you have to replace the ROTOR and PADS. This is not something on a car any brand or model.

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  Bad 1998 Jetta GT - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By dustie - February 24 - 9:26 pm

  I have had nothing but problems with my Jetta. It seems like everyday something goes wrong. Electrical, brake system, clutch, motor mounts, axles, ignition, key switch, heater and a/c controls have all failed within 50,000 miles. The wheels oxidize to the hubs and can not be removed without pounding on the wheels with a sledge hammer. This is not good when you have a flat tire. The car is a total nightmare. Very unreliable. Parts are extremely expensive. I can not recommend this car to anyone.