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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  Fun Car For the Price - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Bruce Arnold - December 28 - 10:00 am

  I waited for the new 2011 Jettas to come out because I Love the stylihng, mileage and comfort. The interior is simple and easy access to controls and the outside has very fine lines with good looks. It performes well for a 2.5, 150 hp. sedan of its weight. The power band is fairly smooth through out except the start of 3rd gear which has a slight pause under light load but works well on heavier acceleration. Miss the analog gas guage though I am getting use to the digital one. Even with drums on the rear it breaks just as smooth and even as my VW Rabbit did. The ride is very smooth and the handeling is exelant for a car its size. Also get a lot of looks from other VW Drivers, YEA!!!

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  Great car after 1 year - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jeff - December 27 - 4:06 pm

  No problems to report after 1 year of ownership. Highly recommend this vehicle, particularly if you want to get combination of good fuel economy and performance.

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  LOVE IT - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JASMINE - December 26 - 6:53 pm

  GREAT CAR!

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  I love my Jetta! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Ashley - December 24 - 7:26 am

  My 2001 Volkswagen Jetta GLS is a great car, especially if you have a daughter going into college or for a graduation present. Thats when I got mine and I love my car. Its great easy to take care of and Ive had minor problems with the bumper because I cant park very well.

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  Great Car - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By SF Lil - December 24 - 2:00 am

  I often read about problems with Jettas but I love mine and consider it very reliable. The only seriously annoying thing to date was when the window clips failed on the drivers window at about 55,000 miles, and the dealership fixed it without charge. The brakes seem to wear out a bit faster than they should, but I get great gas mileage for a V6 and the car is solid.

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  Jetta 2003 Testamonial - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jharris - December 24 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car. Styling is sharp, finish is great, loads of features for the money. Why dont US carmakers make something to compete with this? Ive got the stick shift and its just that much more fun to drive, heated seats, sunroof, CD& cassete, what more can you get for this p

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  Dream car turned money pit - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Krystyna - December 23 - 3:43 am

  I purchased this car new with 12 miles on it. The car ran great for the 1st 3 years. My problem 1st started with an o2 sensor that was replaced in the 1st year of ownership-and my cup holder was replaced twice and the 3rd one broke but was not covered by the warranty. My glove box handle also broke off not to mention the arm rest broke. Then in 04 the j-joint snapped and caused the steering to fail. 05 I had to replace a cracked oil pan. Then in 08 the radiator blew ($500.00). Then the timing belt fell off, smashed the power steering pumu and wrapped around the tension arm ($750.00 w/o a new $350.00 tension arm) Ive had 2 batteries, re-replaced the 02 sensor and today my car wont start.

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  Head of the Class - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Chad - December 20 - 9:56 am

  This is our 3rd new Jetta (04, 06, 10) in what I am sure is a long list of more to come. All you have to do is shop the competition in this price-point (we paid just over $22k) to realize that there is no competition in this price-point. The German styling, euro-inspired handling and performance, and refined interior make you feel like you are driving in a car worth twice the price. One word of caution...if you feel the urge to "shop around" before deciding to buy, make the Jetta last on your list, otherwise it wont be fair to the others :)

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  Dissapointed - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Marc Comire - December 20 - 6:46 am

  When I first drove the car I fell in love with it and immediately bought it. The very responsive engine coupled with 18" performance tires made this car fun to drive. Just two months later and the clutch has way too much transmission feel and the gas consumption is not even close to the quoted technical specifications. Unless my dealer can solve the consumption issue I am estimating that this car will cost me $400-500 more per year than I should expect based on quoted estimates. In terms of the clutch, the feel has drastically changed from when I first took delivery. My dealer is claiming that it is operating normally. I hope this is not a sign of things to come.

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  I cant believe this car is volkswagen base model - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Robert M - December 20 - 3:18 am

  gas mileage is amazing I get average 27mpg on my 20 mile round trip commute everyday, long trips I get up to 35mpg, and If I drive easy I have gotten upwards to 45mpg! Coming from a previous Acura TL, G35, and G37 coupe owner this car handles the best out of all three of those, driving on the highway at 80mph feels th same as driving at 40mph, the only downside is that its lot slower , but if it had 300HP like those cars the Jetta would be the winner. Reason I went with the Jetta is because It was time for me to get a 4 door car that was fuel efficient and more long term. The ride is very smooth, its comfortable for long trips, and while this isnt a "fun" car I never got that anxiety I get when I drive corollas or Hondas where "I just want to get to where Im going because Im bored". The trunk is huge, the back seats are big enough to fit adults. My only gripe is that I got the base model S, this is basically a car, with air conditioning, and a steering wheel, no fancy tech, but Volkswagen offers Jettas with more tech. If you are looking for a 4 door car I recommend no further, out of all the cars in this price range the jetta has the most torque (184) and lots of HP (150), it handles the best, and it looks the best.