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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  Why I bought a new Jetta - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Pragmatist - November 16 - 10:00 am

  Why did we buy this 2011 Jetta (SE w/Conv. and Sunroof)? Balance between content and price. Quick summary: Enough power for easy highway merges and handling a full load of passengers; Smooth driving dynamics; Sleek/current exterior; Full complement of current high tech (IPod adaptor, Bluetooth, AUX, XM radio, touchscreen audio interface, CD changer, wheel mounted audio controls); Full complement of current safety features (front/side airbags, ABS, stability control, impact beams, blinkers on side mirrors); Comfortable seats and interior— Interior pleasant to look at (I don’t touch my dashboard except when wiping dust off); Great dimensions: Overall length shorter than Audi A4 even though

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  Great New VW - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By new Jetta - November 15 - 11:53 pm

  I just purchased my first VW Jetta and it rocks, the Wolfsburg Edition is really handy with the heated seats. At first I thought I had no reason to have them until I turned them on during a cold front. I tell you, you cant have leather seats without them. The same goes for the sunroof, at first I thought Ive never had one so who cares, but now that I have used it is a great option to have. Thanks VW for the hard work in creating and evolving the Jetta for todays environment.

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  What now - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By crr - November 15 - 6:43 pm

  This is a comfortable, efficient car. I have had no problems at all. It drives great, is comfortable and sporty. I have heated leather seats a sunroof and a great sound system. I also get about 32 mpg. My only concern is finding a 4 wheel drive car that will live up to the Jetta.

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  Its a Good Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By DJ Arrington - November 15 - 7:50 am

  When I first bought this car I loved... Love the vr6 with the 6-speed Manuel, its a really comfortable car... But I wish I wouldnt have bought it... Its a great car but Im not a car person... I had a 2000 pathfinder that I traded in and I really miss the utility... I have had the jetta for almost 2 years and I miss having a ton of room on the inside... Thats my only complaint... Its a great car to just roll down the Windows open the sunroof and crank up the radio and just drive... Perfect weekend car...

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  Love it! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By PMeyer - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I had a 97 Jetta before purchasing my 01 Woflsburg in March of 03. I love it! I bought it with 20,000 miles on it....Only problem I had is that the senor for the hazard lights/turn signals had to be replaced at 22,000 miles...the clutch needs to be lubricated once in a while because of it squeeking. Other than that, Ive had no problems (keeping my fingers crossed)

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  Try a TDI, Youll Like it! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Kang - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I bought a 2003 Jetta TDI wagon in April 03 and have driven it over 15,000 miles. At 6 4" tall, I find ample leg and head room thanks to an easily adjustable seat and telescoping / tilt steering wheel. The seats are firm yet comfortable for long trips. The 1.9 liter oil-burner is the quietest, smoothest diesel engine Ive ever heard. The 5-speed manual tranny and clutch work together in perfect harmony; the shift throws are short and crisp. An economical car as well as a "drivers" car!

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  Excellent performance and value! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By David - November 11 - 9:16 pm

  I just drove my new Jetta GLI from Atlanta, GA to Pittsburgh, PA and back. Going through the mountains in Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia I figured I would get 26 to 27 mpg. I got 30.7 on the way there and 31.8 on the way back. I was very impressed with the handling and acceleration up and down the mountains. On the road and when I did stopped for gas I got plenty of looks and a few people that just had to asked what kind of VW is that?! This is an awesome car and I recommed it to anyone who wants great looks, performance, fuel economy, and comfort in a sport sedan.

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  2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By greg - November 11 - 1:03 pm

  Overall, I am completely dissatisfied with this car. It is sad to say that I will never purchase a VW again! I wouldnt drive this car off a cliff! During winter it would not start. I took to the dealer 3 times and they said nothing was wrong. I paid a lot of money for supposed German engineering and quality that arent there.

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  The Best - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Carlocho - November 10 - 10:00 am

  This car is the best compact sedan right now!

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  Fun, But Not For Golfers - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tooch - November 10 - 10:00 am

  The car is a blast to drive, and has a good stock stereo system.