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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  My First Jetta - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By First VW - July 6 - 3:46 pm

  This is my first VW or import car for that matter. I am a huge fan of the New Jetta, I love all the features. It feels like I am driving a BMW that I paid 50 million dollars for. I purchased the 5-speed 2.5, and my only complaint is that my back gets sore from riding long trips. The seats dont provide much support and are pretty stiff.

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  Some Minor Problems - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jetta Owner - July 6 - 2:00 am

  My experience with this car has been good except for a few minor problems. The glove box hinges have broken, the 6 CD disc changer broke, yellow gunk that oozes from door hinges, the light in the drivers side visor broke, and most recently we discovered that the back seat is way to small to accomodate a car seat for a baby. For it to fit, the front seat passengers have absolutely no room at all.

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  Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Sassy - July 6 - 2:00 am

  This car is way fun to DRIVE! I highly recommend in the 1.8T the manual transmission. IT FLIES!

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  Like it - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Andy McKee - July 6 - 1:26 am

  This is the second Jetta I have bought. It definately is way better than the original. My wife and I both try and justify why we ought to take it out. We are planning to by another or perhaps a GTI to replace our second vehicle when the lease runs out on our current Japanese van..

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  Nightmare Experience - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By pandapizazz - July 5 - 10:00 am

  I will never lease a VW again! I have had nothing but problems since the second day that I have had my Jetta. Problems range from windows falling into the door, a sunroof that doesnt work more than it does, and an engine that needs to be replaced. I havent had my car 3 years and honestly feel that I have a lemon. To date I have spent almost 3500 on a car that isnt 3 years old!! BEWARE!!

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  Seasoned Fahrvergnügen - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Ashley Riley - July 4 - 5:57 am

  2006 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan 2.5 - Specifications 4-Door Automatic PZEV 2.5L FI Very Good Condition 4 D Sedan 88973 5-speed automatic transmission w/Tiptronic/sport mode/ overdrive 5 2.5L-FI PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle - A partial zero emissions vehicle is a classification in the United States for a vehicle that has zero evaporative emissions from its fuel system, has a 15-year (or at least 150,000-mile) warranty on its emission-control components, and meets SULEV tailpipe-emission standards.) Value Edition Silver EXT/Grey Leather INT EPA Class Compact (5 person seating capacity with huge trunk) MPG City 22 / Hwy 30 Drivetrain Front Wheel Drive Traction Control Steering Wheel/ Touch Control/Tilt/Telescopic Leather Heated/Bucket Seats Aluminum Alloy Wheels Gel Cell Battery AM/FM/Stereo/CD Changer-Stacker Cell Phone Pairing/”hands free” capability/Satellite ready Spacious glove compartment and console area POWER: Steering Brakes (Anti lock x4/Wheel Disk x4/Brake life 90% remaining) Windows Locks Mirrors (heated, with signal integrated lights) Seats Sun Roof * * * Air Conditioner Intermittent wipers Cruise Control Rear Defogger Keyless Entry Alarm AIR BAGS: Driver Front/Side Passenger Front/Side Front Impact Head Curtain Impact Tire Tread life (40% remaining) Spare tire Very sensitive instrumental panel, you will know if there is a problem, but, at times, a lit icon will appear when there is no problem. Acceleration is so smooth and swift; on Hwy, I need to set "speed warning" for speed increase is subtle, and at times ticket worthy! Very clean. Purchased for elderly widowed parent who can no longer drive; 86,800 mileage at purchase. [contact information removed]

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  The Jetta is a great car! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Lilly - July 4 - 2:00 am

  The Volkswagen Jetta is a great car. Its fun to drive and reliable. There is a lot of storage room and the back seat is roomy, too. So far the only problem I have had in two years were the passenger and driver windows coming off of their tracks one time each. Both windows were covered under my warrenty, fixed right away by the dealer, and havent fallen since. I highly recommend the Jetta.

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  Wont purchase again - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ksdvm - July 1 - 12:56 am

  Have a 01, GL with 35K, enjoyed driving it until had a "computer and air sensor" problem. Dealer had my car for 2 weeks - poor communication/service. Should be reliable at 35K. I am selling for a Mazda. Do your research before purchasing. Hopefully improvements are being made with service.

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  If you buy a jetta buy a bus ticket too! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By blaue - June 30 - 2:00 am

  We leased our Jetta new in 2000 and are finally done with the lease.(never again)and the sorry @#! car.They are so appealing to look at but dont be fooled! Three sensors went out,drivers window fell out,both cup holders broke several times,seatbelts broke, brakes went at 22000 miles all 4 tires went before 15000 it shakes,sputters,idles funny,has stinky exhaust no room in the back seat. And VW dealerships and cuctomer relations SUCK! Buy a Honda,Toyota,or Subaru instead.

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  this car rocks - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By abirken - June 30 - 2:00 am

  I have never driven a car with more get up and go ever! I feel this car can take me around the world a few times and back, it feels so reliable. The power of this engine is incredible and hard to imagine until you are given whiplash upon entering the freeway. Buyers beware of extreme power when driving this car.