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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  WOW did not expect this - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By db - May 7 - 11:53 pm

  If you wold have told me i would be driving a vw a month ago i would have said youre nuts. I am coming out of a BMW and was looking at the usual suspect luxury cars - there all nice but nothing made me go wow. When i test drove this car on a whim i knew in 5 minutes that i wanted it. The 2.0 turbo is a rocket! I chose the wolfsberg over the gli just because i wanted something that looked a little more grown up - and the rims and tires on this car make it look very nice. For the money there is nothing that can even touch this car - its super fun to drive - great styling- ton of options - well built -and did i mention its super fast! Only 12.5k sent to US- pick one up if you can find one!

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  Needs a bit more reliability - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By bmalec - May 7 - 3:20 am

  Im mixed on my Jetta; Im impressed with certain aspects, but sorely disappointed with others. On the good side, the 1.8T motor is a perfect match for the car - its no speed demon, but its perfect for passing on the freeway. The interior is simple, non-gimmicky and pleasing. On the down side, the car has been in for non-scheduled maintenance nine times in the first four years Ive owned it, including the common broken window regulators and ignition coils. Also, the body roll during cornering and pitch during hard braking is ridiculous, because the springs are too soft. Some people say it handles like a sports car, but Im not sure what theyre comparing it to.

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  Great Car if you get a good one! - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Piran - May 6 - 5:13 am

  I bought this car at the end of last summer. It was a one-owner car and had very high mileage. But for the price I got it for, I couldnt complain. So far, I havent had any problems. I had to fix the power locks and touch up the paint a bit. Still looks great though. Ive replaced the entire suspension with Eibach springs and Koni shocks. Feels much more competent. I added an intake and a GIAC chip. Also replaced the stereo with an Alpine head unit. The car goes very well for the mileage. At the mileage, it doesnt have any rattles or intruding wind noise. People are shocked to find out the mileage after theyve been for a ride in it. Good car if you are lucky to get a non-lemon.

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  Enjoying the car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By CMR - May 4 - 2:00 am

  So far, I have enjoyed my relatively new 1.8t Jetta 5M. The turbo is a blast, and it performs well with the manual transmission. I am glad I bought the manual as the automatic I test drove fished for gears. I also ended up with the sport suspension but I am not sure exactly of the difference in handling since I cant compare to a regular suspension. Having owned many Hondas previously, I feel as if the tightness of my VW is not up to what I am used to. Overall, I enjoy the Jetta and look forward to driving anywhere I can.

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  crazy good gas mileage - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By matt - May 2 - 10:31 am

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  excellent - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By panzer mann - May 2 - 10:00 am

  EXCELLENT CAR. I LIKE TO DRIVE IT IT HANDLES BETTER THAN ANY FREAKIN HONDA.

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  Love It! - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ProudJettaOwner - April 30 - 11:56 am

  This is my second VW Jetta. I traded in my 2000 Jetta for the 07 Wolfsburg and WOW, what a difference! I actually bought the car, not loving the exterior, I bought it for the interior and everything it had to offer but since I have had it, I have grown to LOVE the body as well.

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  Do you really want one? - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By redjetta98 - April 30 - 8:13 am

  The Jetta is an interesting car in the beginning when you get it and step on the gas and let out the clutch it feels good you want to drive it. However as you begin lifes journey with the vehicles things start to break such as the back rotors which wear out every 40,000 miles because of a "design flaw" the window cable, not the motor, fray because of a "design flaw", the O2 sensor fails because of a "design flaw". Bottom line the entire car is a design flaw and is made with cheap parts which snap together in some instances. Dont be fooled by its good looks, these cars are money pits. Why do people still own them? Most likely they owe more than what the car is worth and are just trying to get by.

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  Love my TDI - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By smiling - April 30 - 2:00 am

  Although I have only had the vehicle 3 months, I grow more fond of it each day,getting 44mpg, turning heads all the time, hands like a dream, fun!!

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  Great Car - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ckeel4 - April 28 - 2:13 am

  I bought this car for my wife in late 2005. She absolutely loves it and will probably keep it for many years to come. I love the heated seats (also does great in the snow). Its size is comparable to an Accord or Camry. I feel it matches up better in fact with a BMW 3 series. It is remarkably similar to a 2002-2005 Audi A4 and the size of the old Passat. Very few downsides show through on the car. The driver compartment aggravates me as I like to rest my leg in the middle of the car, in the VW this falls right on a sharp edge. Also, the wheels are susceptible to scratches.