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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  More diesel, please! - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ray_j - May 15 - 5:00 pm

  I decided to give up the commuter/family mover (Prius) in favor of the inspired driving characteristics, superior cargo room, and better looks of the JSW. Not wanting to give up on the efficiency, however, made the decision for the TDI flavor much more of a "need" than a "want". Well worth the premium price. I often find myself forgetting when the last time I refueled. The interior treatment is far superior to the JSWs competition, with excellent audio/entertainment accompaniments and vastly superior quality of materials/workmanship. Cargo hauling is also a big plus; after moving our household, I can attest to the versatility of having a wagon vice a sedan, or an mpg nightmare (SUVs).

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  DO NOT BUY - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jason Meigs - May 14 - 10:00 am

  DO not buy this car, they have had several recalled parts and they take NO responsibility if the car breaks even with a bumper to bumper waranty i had the car for 9 months and the transmission broke they made me pay 3000.00 for it then the eslectrical system went out and they covered it but it took 5 weeks to get it finished and do not even try to get a rental car from these people..PLEASE do not make the same mistake i did. once you drive off the dealership VW has no concern for you. I rate this car as horrible. there are several websites dedicated to VW lemons., they are hurting MANY people do not let them betray you...

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  Loving it so far! - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By KayTee - May 14 - 9:53 am

  I bought my 2008 Wolfsburg during a 0% financing promotion. Out the door I paid $23,770. I have been so happy with the Jetta so far. My only complaint is the cost of oil changes! $75 for my first and $80 something for my second. Are you kidding me? Then I was told I might lose my warranty if I take it to a discount place or had a family member do it for me. The Turbo is fun to drive and the car is small and zippy.

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  Good value - 2014 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Chris Ellzey - May 13 - 5:08 am

  I live in the mountains of So Cal this car pulls the mountain just fine it averages 28 mies per gallon overall.It has 29000 miles and has only seen the shop for oil changes.I am totaly satisfied with this car. This is no sports car so dont complain if you want more pay for it and quit complaining.

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  Best Small Car - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By G. Bishop - May 12 - 7:23 am

  My search was for a reliable, fuel efficient car with a ride that didnt cause its passengers pain. I demonstrated most all the small fuel efficient cars including the hybrids. While the TDI Jetta was the last one I demonstrated, it was the best in build quility, performace and ride. It abounds with lots of standard equipment. All-around air bags, four wheel disc brakes and much more. While it is not a street racer off the line, the Jettas turbo diesel runs with the best on the expressway. Best MPG is 47, Worst MPG is 38 in the city with A/C on. Insurance costs are a lot lower than the hybrids. (a savings of $400 to $800 per year)

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  The new 2006 Jetta - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By tkellyd - May 11 - 10:13 pm

  For starters, I managed to get the car for $22,250; I thought that is was a good price for what it is. Ive got package one with XM. Im just coming off of a 1995 Nissan Sentra with 205,000 miles, so this is a joy to drive. The handling is great, road noise is minimal, but not perfect. Sound system is great although I havent hooked up the XM radio yet. I have not encountered any of the problems that I have read about concerning the 2005 models. The only problem that I do have is the mileage. In other cars that I have driven, the mileage was consistent regardless of the AC or heat being on. The Jettas more sensitive to these mechanisms and can eat more gas than I am used to buying.

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  Jetta TDI #2 - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By VW Owner - May 11 - 7:46 pm

  First Jetta TDI 2000 model was purchased used with about 40,000 Miles. Needed and automatic with good mileage for a daily 86 mile round-trip commute. Has excellent torque and good performance in traffic. After 3 years of ownership got an average of 40+ mpg. Became interested in the improved engine on the new models after 2004 which had additional torque and horsepower and also wanted an upgrade to the GLS with leather heated seats and moon roof so purchased a 2005. I have only 3,000 miles on the car but have averaged 42 MPG or better on each tank. The performance reflects the increased torque and horsepower. Am very pleased with the car.

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  Great car for the money - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Andy - May 10 - 1:43 pm

  I got a smokin deal on my Wolfsburg. It is the only normal jetta (not GLI) that comes this model year 2009 with the 2.0T. What a fun engine. Not opened it up yet but wow half throttle and it really goes. Seats are mostly comfortable, I havent been able to get mine exactly where I want it. The only things I would change would be fuel economy readout in dash and steering wheel controls for the radio. I love it and look forward to driving it every morning. PS Dont get the Wolfsburg Jetta if you dont like to clean wheels (Look great but dirty quickly). Overall great car for the money.

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  Fun & Fast - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By brian - May 9 - 2:53 pm

  The turbocharged 200 hp 2.0 liter four is fast and delivers plenty of torque for a small sedan. The performance oriented GLIs sport tuned suspension separates it from the Jetta 2.0T, providing handling that feels like youre driving a sports car rather than a small sedan. The interior is upscale for its class and the controls could not be more simple to operate. The GLIs exterior has a sporty grille and alloy wheels which make it stand out from other Jetta versions. Be careful with the tires. My GLI came with the 18" summer tire option and these Bridgestone Potenzas are completely useless in even a half inch of snow so be ready to buy snow tires. My only repair was a replaced ignition coil

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  Worst Car I have ever owned - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Frank - May 9 - 9:11 am

  I bought new in 2010. The combined cost of warranty and non-warranty (my cost) has surely exceeded the purchase price of the vehicle in 150K miles. It has spent much of the last 4 months in the dealer shop and they finally admit they cant fix it. Problems started around 10K miles when VW replaced a $7000 part in the exhaust system - this is crazy. Then the problems just went on - 3 times the cruise control failed; several sensors and relays have failed; wiring too close to exhaust part have burned; the particulate filter clogged; the started failed; the waste gate has been freed up at least 3 times; the radio failed; the ECM failed; and now the turbo actuator and a sensor have failed. This is my 11th and last VW.