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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  Fantastic, Solid Car - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Adam - April 17 - 10:06 am

  I traded in a big SUV (which averaged 15 mpg in the city) for this car, looking forward to receiving the tax credit ($1,300) and substantial savings at the gas pump. On the first long highway trip, the car averaged 45 mpg. Fantastic - and it drives no different than a car powered by a gasoline engine. Although very new, the car feels solid and responsive. The manual transmission is great. Not having braking issues as others have mentioned. The car is plenty big for my family (me, wife, child, dog). The radio and speakers are high quality. Definitely plenty of car for the money.

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  Suprise its a VW - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By AuntieG - April 14 - 7:43 pm

  We started out to buy a Nissan Maxima but were looking for something with better mileage. This car has comfort, head room and with the turbo engine, it can scat. We had some problems in the beginning with one of the back doors not opening & the paint peeling off the bumpers but the dealer made good on it while it was still under warranty. We love our VW! The only problem we really have is with the defroster. It takes forever to defrost the windshield. Is anyone else having the same problem? After 3 years, we are definitely pleased, and would buy it all over again. I still have people stop and ask me what kind of car I have and they think it is brand new!

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  I Regret Buying This Jetta - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By christinamarie - April 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car in July 2003 with 52000mi. I drive all over the state, at least 500 mi a week. I was told by the dealer that the kick in the engine between 2md and 3rd gear is normal. Well, at 60,000 mi the kick has become fierce and my check engine light is on. The glove compartment lock is busted, too. Also had problems with the bearings on the wheels, and serious issues with the poor presentation of my car at the dealership. And dont even think about having more than 2 people in the backseat!

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  Such potential, but fails to deliver! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By hitmanoo - April 11 - 2:00 am

  My car has less than 36k miles and has had several problems: cracked windshield washer fluid container, defective 6 disc CD changer jammed driver side window, the same window fell from the track and crashed inside the door panel months later, short in the heating device of the side view mirrors, short circuit in the main radiator fan causing my engine to overheat, failure of my oxygen sensor causing my "emisions workshop" engine warning light to illuminate. A problem that persists even today without satisfactory resolution, broken power steering hose, Broken left and right tire rods-neccesitating a wheel alignment, defective water

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  Das Auto!!!!! - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By carrao33 - April 11 - 12:50 am

  My wife and I have owned a couple big ole piece of chevys, and this is our first VW, we absolutely love it! For a small car it has enough power to make the car fun to drive, the handling is good, the tan leatherette interior makes the car feel luxurious. We also love being a part of the VW family, and find ourselves unconsiously parking next to other V-dubs in parking lots. I will probably never own another american car now.

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  I love my Jetta! - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Stefanie - April 8 - 12:16 pm

  I absolutely love my Jetta. It has so many upscale features and is a great value and fun to drive. For a fairly small car, its incredibly well designed, making optimal space in the backseat and a large trunk. When my lease runs out I plan to get another one! Why would I buy any other car?

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  Terrible Car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By SH in AZ - April 6 - 9:03 pm

  First brand new car. Thought VW had an outstanding reputation. I have been in and out of service since I bought the car. Coolant fan kept draining the battery, check engine light on several times, and right before I dumped it, calipers and struts were bad and three of four new tires were cupping. Black looks great in the showroom but is impossible to keep looking nice. Black interior caught every piece of lint and dust creating a constant mess that a professional car detail service could not clean. Interior peels, cup holders are a joke, absolutely no leg room in the back seat, and the trunk latch broke three times. This is just to name a few. No love lost when I traded it 3 days ago.

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  Never again!!! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By lslb40 - April 6 - 11:30 am

  I have had my 2005 2.5L for 3 years now. I have had to replace the timing chain and tensioners once already. 4 months later I had to replace the tensioners again. Thank god my Husband works on VWs cause if you take it to a VW dealer to get fixed your looking at a $2,500 job and thats on the low side. Now my car has an intermittent starting problem which after days and days of research I see that this has been a big problem for this car and several other VW cars. I have talked to a VW mechanic from a local VW dealer and he has said to get rid of the car, especially the 2.5L. He has been a VW mechanic for 35 years. Needless to say. I will never buy a VW again.

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  Great value - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Larry - April 6 - 3:53 am

  Except for the MPG youd never guess its a diesel. Has a lot going for it. Ride, dry road handling, seat comfort, fit/finish all great. Good pick-up once turbo is engaged. People have mistaken it for a BMW - good looking car. I have driven trucks for years and got tired of the gas bill. I am really pleased with this terrific car.

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  Fun Jetta VR6 - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JediOrder - April 6 - 2:00 am

  Great car to drive, no problems asides from replacing a sensor that made egine ligh go on. Oh, reaplced back light bulb.