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 miracle find - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By joanjetta - September 19 - 12:19 am

  I just bought my 1999 VW Jetta, private sale, and it only had 97K on the vehicle. I reconditioned it this weekend and I honestly cant believe this car is 16 years old. It drove well on the ride around the block, so I just knew it had potential to be one of these cars that you hear about making it to 300K. So I have taken the maintenance schedule in stages, because I am not under any illusions that things wont need to be replaced, BUT it will still be cheaper than making a car payment and paying full coverage insurance and maintenance costs.

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  A Great Vehicle To Own - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By smiths - September 18 - 8:53 am

  We love taking our Jetta on trips. Im so excited at the distance we can go without having to stop for gas. The only quirk I have is the passenger seat is not as comfortable as I would like it to be. Overall though, I love the vehicle and the ride and the safety is great for a someone with children.

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  Brings the fun back +45 MPG! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jackdog - September 18 - 12:50 am

  The 2006 Volkswagen Jetta TDI gets my highest rating. It is super fun to drive, comfortable, roomy, the sound system is great...all this plus it gets 45 MPG. Now how could you beat that? The six-speed auto transmission drives like a sports car instead of a sedan. All this in a $25,000 package. I have nothing but praise for my Jetta!

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  Totally Suprised! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Josh - September 17 - 11:23 pm

  I traded in my Nissan 350Z for a 2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI. Its coming closer to winter now, and I didnt feel like driving the Z in the snow again. I got a great deal on my trade, new car, financing, and a great dealership. I thought that I would be content with the GLI vs. the Z, but boy was I suprised. I actually have MORE fun driving the GLI than the Z. Its smoother, more comfortable, better handling, and gets way better gas mileage. All of that with a trunk and back seats too!

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  Big trade-off - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By TC - September 17 - 2:13 pm

  We bought this car new in 2001. Since then, it has been in the dealer countless times. It has gone through several MAF sensors (expensive!), some turbo work, and plenty of recalls. The interior seems cheap, although the gauge color scheme is a nice touch. It has surprisingly sporty feel in the corners, especially for an economy car. We have the TDI version, which regularly gets 50-55 mpg. I would buy this car ONLY for the mileage, since it has more than made up for the cost of repairs over time - especially with gas prices these days.

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  King of the corners - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Feeman - September 17 - 10:00 am

  The 2.0 liter 8v is sluggish. This, however, is the only complaint I can make about this beautiful European car. Although it doesnt feel that stable, it can take corners faster than is legal in most jurisdictions. Interior design is typical flawless VAG quality. Everything is laid out logically and is well placed. The sound system delivers crisp highs and mids, and decent lows. The 5-speed shifts smoothly, and the clutch provides no fight. The best thing is, this car has 145,000 miles on it, and it is still running perfectly, with a smooth idle. It still pulls strong right up to the redline. VW reliability proves itself once again. Excellent car.

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  The pleasure was all mine - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By heat - September 17 - 10:00 am

  Driving this car on a 789 mile weekend trip was a great experiance that I cant fully explain. It has to be driven to understand what I mean. The 789 miles had many steep hills to go up, I set the cruise control at 70 mph and never once did the transmissions shift down going up the hills. I have a V6 and I know that it would have shifted down on many of the hills. With the firm heated seats my back felt better than it had in weeks after the trip. It has many standard features that cant be found in other cars of its size. PS. The speed limit here is 110kmph

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  Bells and Whistles - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Teri12 - September 17 - 10:00 am

  Fun drive, classy interior, best crash ratings possible (very safe), awesome sound system. Very fast car for a 4 door car.

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  Solid Automobile - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mitch - September 16 - 5:13 pm

  Owned a Saab 9-3 and test drove a Honda Accord. This car falls between the two. The Saab was more sporty, the Honda was more roomy and people oriented. The quality of materials is better than both. Its handling is very good and it is very fun to drive. The diesel engine pulls well, it is even a bit sporty once you are already going (ie. passing is a breeze). As refined as the engine is, there is still some noise and vibration that tends to bring out any possible piece of vibrating plastic in the cabin. This is a great car! It is a real pleasure to drive. I cant comment on the sound system, I tend to play kids CDs or listen to talk radio.

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  The Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jeany - September 16 - 5:56 am

  I love this little car. I drive over 65 miles one way to work and the gas mileage has been awesome. I think the car is really classy. This is the first time I have ever owned a VW and I would buy another.