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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  Bang for your Buck - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Stuart - February 5 - 4:28 pm

  If you judge a car for what it is designed for, the Jetta is tough to beat. I got the 1.4 SE with a manual. Acceleration is more than adequate if not peppy. Handling is the same. It is quiet on the inside. I drove this back to back with a 2015 Camry SE thinking the Camry would be better, but actually liked the Jetta better. The Jetta had less road noise, smoother engine, and better ride. I also drove this with other competitors and still found this a cut above. This is not a sports car, but sportier than most in its category and is engaging to drive. The new infotainment for 2016 is great. I would bet that Apple Play/Android auto will be on most cars soon. The sound system is better than I anticipated. The only real cost cutting I see is the interior door panels. People talk about the dash, but to me that is a non issue since I never come in contact with it. In the end this is still basically an economy car. Gas Mileage is spot on with the sticker, maybe a little better on the highway. Back seat room is good. Trunk room is generous, but the trunk opening could be a little larger. So far no regrets. VWs can be had for significant discounts to sticker with diesel scandal going on. You can probably get at least $3k knocked off pretty easily. I also have kids who will be driving in the next few years. It will make a great car to learn in. It is a good size and easy to get used to.

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  Great little car - GT should do more... - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By oregongirl225 - February 5 - 2:00 am

  I really like my 1998 Jetta GT, there are a few things that I think VW could have made better, like the shifting is a little harsh. Sometimes takes a while for it to shift. Other than that its a great car... once it shifts normal its fast.

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  Expected Results - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Bensim - February 5 - 2:00 am

  Overall, I have to say that I love my car. I owned an 89 Jetta GLI and then a Subaru Outback before my current Jetta. The 89 Jetta had incredible problems, but it was always fun to drive. The Outback had no problem, but it wasnt fun to drive. I went back to VW because I wanted to enjoy driving again, and my Jetta has delivered. It is manual, and I would only get manual with such a great engine! But, of course, my Jetta has had its share of problems. They are the same as everyone elses: electrical, windows, O2 sensor, glove box, sunroof, etc. Perhaps because of my first Jettas many issues, I dont seem to mind as much as others.

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  TDI - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By rrrrr - February 5 - 2:00 am

  its great, fun to dive, efficient, take biodiesel, reliable, no problems with this car

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  Turbo-COOL - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By K FROM TX - February 5 - 2:00 am

  I did a lot of research on small cars for about 6 months. I test drove quite a few and came to the conclusion that VW Jetta was for me. It sold me- sporty, classy & fast car at such a great price. It is just the car I was looking for to commute around the Ft. Worth & Dallas area. The Stereo system kicks butt!-if you are like (me) MUSIC is a big part of my life. I am a totally satified consumer!

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  Great car, - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Darin - February 4 - 1:20 am

  I was really impressed with the Diesel as an alternative to a hybrid. I had a Civic Hybrid that was a great car, but had no guts when you needed it. This car has it in spades. The diesels torque makes for a much more pleasant driving experience while returning similar fuel economy. The only thing I cant figure out is a high pitched noise that is constantly going. Its not the turbo. This noise is coming from the rear passenger quarter of the car and is especially noticeable after shutting off the engine. No one else seems to hear it, but it makes my ears feel like theyve been screamed in after I drive it. Hopefully, its a break-in issue that will go away.

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  9th volkswagen - 1rst major problem - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By shston - February 3 - 10:00 am

  Bought my 9th VW in March - a 1.8T with tiptronic. The car is beautiful to look at and certainly fun to drive, but after hearing strange noises underneath and having it checked out, I now find the entire frame needs to replaced. The dealer has agreed to buy the car back for what I paid for it - Im going back to a 5-spd. (I think the automatic transmission is very poor) and the regular engine. My last two jettas went 160K and 300K!

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  nothing but trouble - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By np - February 3 - 10:00 am

  In 2 yrs, Ive had it in the shop to repair a cup holder, center arm rest, remote entry, broken passenger window regulator, broken driver side window regulator, leaky door sealant, and emissions (5 times). Quality feel has been a mirage. Absolute disaster and will never buy a VW again. Large number of 2 yr jettas in the used lot should have been a clear signal.

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  solid compact car - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By d_miller81 - February 1 - 1:43 pm

  This was my second Volkswagen. I bought this vehicle as a certified used car with a generous warranty. I have had NO problems with this car. It has never needed any mechanical service besides standard service. It handles great with "H" rated tires. I replaced the factory stereo with an aftermarket CD player, the factory speakers sound great. I get about 33 mpg on highway. this car is fun to drive and the 5 speed is smooth and simple. This car is bullet proof. It has gotten me out of trouble more than once with its awesome handling and braking. Cant say enough good things about this model.

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  LOVE This CAR - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By tgm_lgh - January 31 - 10:00 am

  This is my first VW, also my first OWNED vehicle, but its a GREAT car. Gas Mileage is the best. Trunk has lots of room.