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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Do not buy 2005/6 TDI unless cam has been replaced - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
By vwexfan - February 21 - 1:26 amI own two VW TDI Jettas from new a 2006 and a 2010... Both have issues... IÂ’m anal retentive on the maint and always go to dealer until warranty is over then I do it myself but always buy all my parts etc from the dealer... My 2006 has 168k km on it and the camshaft is poochedÂ… VW Canada gave me a $400 credit towards a $4k+ repair billÂ… I just snickered and said can you spell the word ToyotaÂ… I love the carÂ… like the dealershipÂ… I have owned 4 VW diesels each with over 400K on them with never an issueÂ… I think you are seeing VWÂ’s goal to be the #1 manufacture and lots of short cutsÂ… After 20 plus years of good value I guess I need to find another pathÂ… DO not buy any 2005/6 TDIÂ’s they all have this problem with the camÂ… it is a manufacturing issueÂ… the hardness in the cam was never right on themÂ… all of them will fail sub 200kÂ… I personally know of 4 all between the 160-190k markÂ…
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luv my jetta! - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
By bklyngal - February 20 - 4:03 amThis is a great car for the price. I bought it pre-owned and consistently drive it everyday. The car now has 38,000 with no problems (knock on wood).The steering on this car is tight and hugs the road. None of the other cars I test drove such as, the mazda3 and corolla could compare to the solid feel the Jetta has. This is a classy looking car and it turns heads, not to mention its fun to drive. If you want a good looking car with style and great steering, get this car-you wont be sorry!
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From Best to Worst - 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
By bobgoblin - February 19 - 6:01 pmI traded my 2001 Passat in for a 2012 Jetta TDI "Premium" in January. While the Passat was honestly the best car I have owned, the Jetta is the worst. The Jetta stalls all the time. It was shipped with a 5-speed gearshift knob, even though it is a 6-speed transmission. The car was supposed to have lumbar support but doesnt . VW said they will correct it since it is not specifically listed on the window sticker. The windshield cracked when i hit a pothole at 2,000 miles and VW is refusing to fix that. I can go on, but wont. After driving VW for 11 years, this Jetta will my last VW purchase.
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The 1999 Jetta Wolfsburg Edition - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
By Tricia Stewart - February 18 - 10:00 amI bought this vehicle used. It is has all of the extra options such as a moonroof, power-everything, cruise, and a terrific sound system. I love the car so far. The one thing that I do not like about this car is the power window failure. Apparently this is common in Volkswagen cars and it is very expensive to repair.
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Disappointed - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
By Montreal Volks - February 18 - 10:00 amOver the course of 4 years Ive had many sleepless nights with this car, from the cup holder to the glove compartment to the electrical system. NOTHING BUT TROUBLE. Same year my wife bought a Civic, the Civic has seved us extremely well. This year we kept the Civic but sold the Jetta and got a new 2004 Civic. Will never buy another Volkswagen!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Get a Honda - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
By Ray - February 18 - 7:43 amMy 2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T has been in the shop numerous times, including for the ignition coils twice, and to have the heated mirrors replace three times. I also had the transmission replaced. The engine light has come on six times. This car is going away. Its time to by a Honda Accord.
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Wolfsburg Edition 5-Speed - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
By Sonia - February 18 - 2:33 amIve only had this car for three weeks but so far I am very pleased. It has a really smooth ride and is surprisingly roomy. I like the quality and simplicity of the interior, and for 150 hp, its got quite a bit of pep. The only problem so far is that the remote trunk release has been temperamental in this freezing northeast weather.
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Great Car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
By lovediving - February 17 - 2:00 amGreat cars nothing more to say about them 51 mpg on the hiway running 70mph with the air on what more can some one ask
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Not a Safe Car! Buy a Volvo! - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
By jessicarigaud - February 16 - 10:00 amThis car was recalled four times before it was involved in a mojor accident! The car was totaled and non of the four air bags deployed. VW had the nerve to say the car did what it was supposted to do. Half of the hood and its mechanical parts were left on the side of the road, but not the AIR BAGS! My families 6th and last VW / Audi product!
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There is no alternative - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
By moo - February 16 - 10:00 amAmazing what 4 cyl, turbo, and German engineers can do. As former engineer, am picky. Found attention to detail superior to any other. Every inch has purpose. For 03 they smartly combined savings of GL int. with performance of 1.8T. Engine has economy of 4 cyl. but pep of turbo. Was willing to give up leather/sunroof for 1.8T. With stick, it flies. Amazingly, the "base" interior LOADED. ANY other brand in base interior would leave you with deficit in comfort or performance - requiring extra $ in aftermarket improvements.
