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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  Looks Cool, Is a piece of Junk - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Disillusioned - July 29 - 2:00 am

  Ive had so many problems with this car I cannot even remember them all. The tailpipe fell right off the car while I was driving once. The electrical system went out. The ignition switch had to be replaced, the door strips came off three times, the handles have broken off the glove compartment, the lights have gone out in the console. I have taken excellent care of this car from day one and it has caused me nothing but grief. NOP NOT BUY ONE OF THESE. My girlfriends 12 year old Honda Accord with 115k miles on it is twice as reliable as this Jetta was, even when it was new. I will NEVER buy a Volkswagen again.

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  Great Car!!! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jlarm3 - July 29 - 2:00 am

  We have 121,000 miles on 2000 TDI automatic. The car has truly held up well for us and we plan to continue driving at this pace for years to come. Only a few complaints. Front door windows fell inside doors (replaced under warranty). Was surprised about the need to change timing belt so often (40,000 miles w/auto trans). Front bumper cover too low-will pull off if you park too close to curb. Also a little crowded in back seat. Will buy another one!!!

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  The Worst Car Ive Ever Purchased! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By sami3 - July 29 - 2:00 am

  I bought a 2002 VW Jetta with the Turbo engine. This is the worst car I have ever bought. It has broken down three times due to the coil pack, the turbo went out twice, I have had a bunch of electrical problems and my door would not close. All these problems have happened to a new 2002 car with 14K miles. Im starting the process of getting a Lemon law layer. I will NEVER buy a VW again!!!

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  A nice car and fun to drive. - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By AlphaAce83 - July 29 - 2:00 am

  The VW Jetta is a fun car to drive. It handels well in all road conditions. When the exstra power is needed, the car will give it to you w/o hesitation.

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  Bad Quality - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jetta2002 - July 29 - 2:00 am

  This is the first VW I have ever purchased. I purchased this car 4 months ago and since Ive had to have it serviced twice. First, after 2 months, the car had no power, it couldnt even go 20 mph. Second, the passenger window wouldnt go up. I would caution anyone looking to purchase a new Jetta to be aware that you will run into these problems.

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  So nice, so fun, lokks so good - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By chrisk84 - July 29 - 1:03 am

  This is THE BEST CAR I HAVE EVER DRIVEN. It is quick, comfortable, easily seats a family of five, and drives just as good as a Mercedes-Benz. My next car is certianly to be a VW. The warranty is excellent, my dealer has good follow up for services.

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  Best Buy!! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By avidfan4 - July 28 - 6:33 pm

  My husband and I traded in a 1996 Honda Accord for this car and I cannot think of a single complaint. It has a very smooth ride, gets excellent gas millage, and ours has so many wonderful features. We havent had to any maintenance besides oil changes. Its braking system can handle the slippery winter roads like a pro. It handles extremely well, I would be completely comfortable racing this car in a NASCAR setting. VWs are worth the money you spend for them, I dont think I will be getting another car until my kids go to college...and I dont even have kids yet!

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  Go test drive one yourself! - 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
  By carloco1 - July 28 - 5:31 pm

  Yes, the 2.0 is under power, I wouldnt buy this car with the automatic. But with the manual transmission works fine. You can get this car to 70 or 80 mph with no problem. Actually, its pretty quiet at 75 mph. In order to pass other vehicles in the highway I have to put the car in 4th or 3rd gear. The Jetta is very roomy, I am six feet tall I can put the seat all the way back and my teenage sons fit in the back seats with out touching the back of my seat. I like this car better than my old 2001 BMW 325I. I am very with this car purchase, I just hope this car turns out to be reliable. I found out all the new Jetta come equipped with four wheel disk brake even thu the reviews say otherwise!

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  I love my VW - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Miko - July 26 - 12:50 pm

  I bought my car new in 2003. I have had no problems out of it thus far. I love the get up and go of the turbo. Even though it is turbo, the gas mileage does not suffer. I get at least 30 mpg. It is fun to drive and economical. It is also the third VW that I have owned. It is probably all that I will ever own.

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  Jetta sport wagon 1.8T 17" rims - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Rob ONeil - July 24 - 11:52 am