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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  The Jetta Rules! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Volkswagen Matt - November 4 - 10:00 am

  This Car is the Best Car I have ever driven. It has the feel of a BMW at a way cheaper cost. The Design is sporty yet functional and the attention to detail that the Engineers at Volkswagen makes this car great. The added features such as the ability to roll the windows down with the turn of the key in the door shows that Volkswagen has thought of everything. All these features, not to mention the Flip Key that resemble the Mercedes keys make this car a must have. I give this Car a 10 out of 10

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  Never again... - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Erin - November 3 - 3:43 am

  I have had this car for less than 2 months & have already had to put $1500 into it. Ive replaced a door sensor, trunk latch, numerous vacuum tubes, & windshield wiper motor. While driving 70 mph, the side mirror cap just decided to fly off too. Just got my catalytic converter replaced too. Thankfully, still under warranty (600 miles away from being too late though). Previously, I had a 92 Toyota Celica. In the 5 yrs I had it, I put about the same amt into it and most of it was maintenance. I will NEVER buy a VW again. Everyone I talk to with a VW agrees. TERRIBLE! Dont buy one unless youre ready to invest a lot of money into this car.

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  Jetta: so far, so good - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kittydad - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Fuel economy (mostly smaller town and highway) averages mid to high 40s in winter, to 49-53 mpg in summer. Fuel economy appears to be 5-10% higher this year than last year, when car was new. Recent trip from Tulsa, OK to mid-KY used 13.3 gallons of fuel for the whole trip of 750 miles (= 57 mpg) at 70-75 mph, with air conditioning. Back seat needs a little more foot room (has about 5 inches less than our Corolla); its my understanding that new Jetta has a little more foot room due to slightly longer wheelbase. No sign yet of reported problems with power accessories. So far, would recommend this car (2003 model) highly.

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  Best car nowadays! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Nadia - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Since I bought the Jetta, I have been very happy with it. The drive is fun and fast, the handling is excellent, and the diesel noise is not bad at all.

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  too new - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By D9 - October 31 - 10:00 am

  I know its too soon to rate this car. I only have 1000 miles on it in the first week-and-a-half. I wont give it all the praises of an awesome car. It is a good car. The only reason to purchase this car is for the diesel fuel economy. Back and forth to work (combined driving) for me it gets 48- 50 mpg with the windows and sunroof open. This creates some drag which would affect the mileage. On the highway it gets a solid 60 mpg on the first try at under 200 miles on it. If it continues to do as well as it breaks in I will be pleased. Gobbs of torque, merging and uphill climbs in fifth gear. Not as nice as my Passat, but $5000 less.

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  Used to Love VW - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Brian B - October 31 - 4:33 am

  I bought my 1999 Jetta new with a 100,000 mile warranty. The starter went out at 38,000 miles (not covered). The window motor went out at 42,000 miles (not covered). The side molding came off at 50,000 miles (not covered). Now the stereo volume doesnt work properly and the big one, I need a new tranny and the clutch went out at 65,000 miles (probably covered but forgot to take it to the dealer). Oh yeah, my second starter went out at 55,000 miles and my second and third window motors are gone.

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  Fun at the start but not when needed! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By dubvhill - October 31 - 2:46 am

  I bought this car used and heard nothing but good things about VWs. I thought i was getting a dependable car that would last a long time. I was wrong, but must say it hasnt died completely. About a year into my purchase the check engine light came on. Being a poor college student, making it on his own, didnt have money to fix right away. Long story short 4years $7k in and the check engine light is still on. Making money now to fix, but tired of the circling fuel system of death. I am waiting for this car to die to buy a new car. My luck will be this car goes forever with the check engine light on. At the end of the year I will donate to train fire fighters, so the misery will die.

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  Jetta Junk - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By staffrc - October 26 - 10:33 pm

  I take very good care of my autos. Service is done as specified by the manufacturer, always using the best quality parts available. This Jetta is the worst car that I have ever owned. I have bought 17 new cars in the last 20 years for my family. I have owned Nissans, Fords, GMs, Mazdas, Dodges, Toyotas and Mercedes. Any of these autos are hands down better autos than a VW Jetta. Maintenece on this Jetta is the worst I have ever seen. I have a 2004 Corvette that costs far less to maintain than this piece of junk. Do not even use VW and Mercedes in the same sentence. VW is not even close in any aspect to a Mercedes. Do not buy a 2006 Jetta 2.5.

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  Cant go wrong with a TDI - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Chism - October 25 - 8:23 pm

  I have been very impressed with this car. It gets incredible gas mileage and is a very solid build. It handles well, and all of the controls are easy to get to.

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  Migraine - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By George - October 24 - 6:30 am

  I purchased the car with 96K and now have 133K. Repairs so far include: timing chain & belt clutch all 4 window regulators struts, ball joints, control arms - entire suspension AC all hoses sparkplugs now Im looking at fixing the heater core, which is ~ $700. Also worth noting the radio gets minimal reception, CD player died soon after purchase, electronics are quirky (turn volume down and it goes up), cruise control doesnt work. When theres nothing wrong with the car it drives fine and is fun, but the maintenance is horrible, and I take it to the best and cheapest shop around (Black Forest Industries). Probably put in ~$5K in 40K miles/2.5 years (paid 5600). Never buying a VW again