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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  Great Car with Minor Flaws - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By odachimaster - January 22 - 2:36 am

  The car handles, performs, is responsive, and rides smoothly on these 17" tires, just as it should for a car stickered at $27,895. It has an excellent interior design with high quality materials. It has better leather than the GLSs. The 8-way power seats have nice touch memory. One negative, mine has had a few little electrical problems. Cruise would only work intermittently or the cruise light would come on and would not go off. It has been very difficult for my service center to figure out when it is not doing it when they have and they have not been as nice as tey could be. VW moved its assembly to Mexico and I would like to see if more problems have arisen.

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  silver jetta - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By bandit91411 - January 22 - 2:00 am

  I have had not one problem with my car outside of the first day I took it home. I drove off the lot with the reverse light on and it stayed on. I had to return to the dealership to have it repaired twice!!

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  The best way to buy one - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Samuel Turner - January 20 - 10:00 am

  The Volkswagen Jetta is one of the best they make, it has great handling,fuel economy, power/tourque. Even a base model GL is great.

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  Terrible. Youd be better off riding a bike! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Izabella - January 20 - 7:50 am

  If you intend to buy this car, you need to reconsider. I purchased my 2000 Jetta 1.8 in March of 2013. This is the breakdown of the repairs Ive made since March of 2013 -Engine blew $2400 -Front control arms $300 -Upper and Lower radiator hoses $300 -4 Ball Joints $450 -Bushings, Stab Links $300 -Starter $250 -Front Axle $200 -Power Steering Pump $250 Ive done regular maintenance such as Tires, Brakes, Flushes e.tc. $500. Ive put more into the vehicle, but after all of the repairs Ive had, its hard to remember every single thing thats been done. Currently, the Heater Core is out. This will cost upwards of $1200. (Im unwilling to put this much into it). By this point, I would have been able to invest a good sum into a new car. It seems like every 3 months, something goes out that costs a minimum of $250 to fix. This past winter, I went to roll down the window and the crank broke off. The vehicle is cheaply made. Its become a money pit. If you want to spend as much into a used, terrible car as youd like to spend into a new car, then a 2000 Jetta is for you. I wish I had known how awful the vehicle is before I had purchased it. Its very disappointing because the transmission has been running strong, even with 184k miles. At this time, Id have thought Ive put so much into the car that itd be running smooth. Unfortunately, about $5,000 later and an initial cost of $2,700, this thing runs like junk. Its so terrible, its become known as the "money pit" in my family. If you look at this car, you may as well just start walking because thats all youll be doing when you own this vehicle.

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  2016 VW Jetta - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Caroline Lucia - January 19 - 7:25 am

  I recently just purchased my first VW Jetta with Patrick at Volkswagen on Orange Blossom Trail. He gave the up-most professional service and was friendly! Very accommodating in getting the perfect car. I am in love with it! The technology is great and it is SO smooth to drive. The mileage is awesome as well, 40 MPG, it only takes less than $25 to fill up. The perks you recieve as well are great, the customer service at this dealership really know how to help you out!

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  Bad Lock Modules - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By peanutmm - January 18 - 4:16 pm

  I am now having to have a second doors lock module and possibly latch replaced. The right side went out and was replaced 6 months ago and now the left rear passenger side went out and ahs to be replaced. Problem is warranty is out because of high miles I drive. car is only a year and half old. Overall, a great car. Just be sure if you drive high miles to get them to promise to cover warranty issues i.e. electrical as the lock replacement is 500-1000 per door.

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  Burns too Much Oil - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Oil Burner 2 - January 17 - 10:33 pm

  This car drives great and has been very reliable. I bought it new in 2000, but since day one it has used at least a quart of oil every 1,000 miles, which could be dangerous unless you know it. The dash lights around the temp and fan switch quit working after a the first few years. The front bumper grill pops out each time you bump a parking block. Im tired of replacing the lost grills, even thought theyre cheap. Otherwise its been a workhorse I can count on.

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  Great Car Minor Problems - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By fralopez4636 - January 16 - 7:06 am

  I have owned this car since July of 2006. I am truly impressed with the DSG transmission and the 2.0T engine. This is the best engine transmission combination I have ever driven. I get 28 mpg combined. The acceleration is very good especially for passing in DSG Sport Mode. The ride and handling are also very Germanic which to me is good. I have had several problems with the car all of which have been fixed under warranty. The most severe problem was an engine misfire caused by bad ignition coils. The A/C compressor also gave out after 15K miles. I bought this car used with 9,000 miles on it for $19.8K and for that price this car is hands down the best car purchase I have ever made.

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  NEVER BUY ANOTHER VW - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By CMURDA - January 16 - 2:00 am

  I was so excited to buy a new vw, but that excitment faded quickly. The coils in the engine are defective. Volkswagen will only replace them as they crack so you are forced to send your car to the dealership everytime it breaks down. They do give you a rental but I had a rental for over 2 months because they had so many problems with other cars that the coils where on back order. This was not the service I was expecting from vw. I also had been complaining about my drivers side window having problems and they said there is another manufacture problem but they will not fix the problem untill the window actually breaks and slides down into the door.

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  Great Car for the Money - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By gibco - January 16 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car almost three years and have had very few problems with it. Most have been of the normal maintenance/wear and tear variety. It is well design and well built, though after nearly three years, it has developed so squeeks and rattles that are annoying. Still, its the best car you can buy for the money. Previously I had a 96 GL that was likewise trouble free and fun to drive.