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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  new car a blast! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Eben - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Having owned a Suv and Subura wagon, its really fun to own a car that really "zips" around .The Jetta is very solid and well made. The Monsoon stereo and the lighted dash make you feel your driving a more expensive car.I added a Thule ski rack and go on many small New England roads with no problems. Great car!

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  2005 GLI 1.8 Turbo - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By SYN - June 29 - 10:53 pm

  With all the hype about the new Jettta released mid year people have skipped right past the GLI 1.8T. Its hard to find any info on it. I love this car it flys! It stops on a dime and I get looks everywhere I go in it!

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  1.8t = Solid Car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By George S - June 29 - 5:46 am

  Put on about 50,000 miles, with a decent amount of reliability issues (windows dropping into door twice, check engine lights, leaking sunroof, failed ignition coil requiring tow, among others). With the turbocharged engine, Im going to make sure I religiously change the oil every 3k miles no matter what...cant afford to put money into the car now that Im off the 4-year/50k mile warranty. Otherwise, a great car overall. Not fast, but quick - and it can be made quite fast with basic mods, if one should so choose. Amazingly refined interior build quality, classy exterior looks. Has its rattles, but not a big deal. Fairly soft ride, though a bit of lean in turns as a result.

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  Be wary of VR6 w/ auto trans - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By . - June 29 - 5:23 am

  Bought a used 2001 Jetta VR6 automatic to replace a 2001 Beetle 1.8T 5-Speed. This was the 8th VW Ive owned (several GTIs, Sciroccos, a Karmann Ghia) but the first VR6, the first 4-speed automatic and the first with unexpected issues. Electrical gremlins made themselves known within the first 1000 miles we put on the car. First, it would occasionally refuse to start unless you reseated the battery-box fuses. Then the sunroof began opening spontaneously. The dealership wasnt able to sort the electrical problems, so I took it to my usual private VW expert. He rolled his eyes and said that VR6 automatics are notoriously problematic (though he had praise for the 2.0 and 1.8T manuals).

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  Wolfsburg 2.0T: quality, fun, value, safe - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By GJS - June 28 - 7:20 pm

  Looked for a commuter car that is not boring to drive. Tested all Hondas, Toyotas and Hyundais and used Mercedes and BMW in the under 25k range. They had nothing to compare to the Jetta drive quality and feel. Bought mine in June 2008. Initial climate control malfunction which I had to contact the CEO of VW USA Mr. Jacoby, since dealer Bob Baker was clueless. Dealer in Escondido Classic is awesome and fixed problems 100% with the help of factory engineers. It was a faulty temp. sensor in the left vent. Driving over hills to work, 35 miles with 15 miles city driving I get 28-29 MPG at 70-80 and 30+mpg at 65MPH regular gas. Loves the responsiveness at any speed. Handling like Porsche.

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  Fun Card - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Sebastian - June 28 - 10:00 am

  I think that the new Jetta is a great car. It is a bit smaller than what i thought, and it is right now being one of the down sides, at least for me. But besides that, i believe it is a great car!

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  The Bumper! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By left on the curb - June 28 - 10:00 am

  The bumper keeps getting stuck on curbs. I back out, the bumper doesnt. Its plastic, and the screws just tear right out. Dealership doesnt cover it. Annoying! But love it otherwise...

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  Continues to WOW - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jwo - June 27 - 5:13 am

  I still am in love with my Jetta. I a bought it exactly a year ago and every day it continues to impress me and others. The more I drive the car the better the gas mileage gets. I currently average about 28 mpg in mixed driving. While those figures are not the best in class it is still really good. Highway driving I have gotten upwards of 34 mpg. The 5-speed manual transmission is still as smooth as the day I bought it and the clutch is as light as a feather (no joke). The power is not overwhelming but is not underwhelming, the torque, especially midrange is what truely is impressive. My friends continue to be wowed at the feature content of the car for the low base price. Keep it up VW!

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  It is good for the money - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By max becker - June 27 - 2:43 am

  It always starts, the TDI is great for mileage. The handling is good for a car that is not a performance car.

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  The Good and the Bad - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kyoung116 - June 26 - 11:00 pm

  Love the tiptronic transmission in my 2003 Jetta Wolfsburg! It makes driving an automatic almost as much fun as driving a stick. It is great on fuel and has awesome handling. It is amazing how much power you get out of that little engine. The low end torque from the smaller turbo unit almost makes you forget its a 4-cyl. However, the worksmanship is pretty bad. The paint and windhshield scratch too easily. The paint has swirl marks everywhere. The VW CD player just doesnt sound good, its missing a certain clarity to the sound. I replaced the head unit, but kept the Monsoon speakers...which sound GREAT! Some fabric came loose on the passenger seat and a rear seat came off its hinge. Also, my trunk is getting so stiff that I can barely open/close it. This is a great car, too bad its made in Mexico.