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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  Fast and reliable - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jrogers75 - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I own a automatic Jetta Gls and it took sometime to time getting used to the Transmission features, Once the transmission became familar with my driving style, it handles and drives like a race car. Wasnt very impressed with the quality of the inside cover of the sunroof though "cardboard with carpet" very flimsey. Car can be very noisy if you only have the sunroof open too. If you have any back problems I would buy this car !! Very good support for the back and you can move virtually anything with the seat.

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  Economy, Performance, and Style - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Lanark - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I absolutely love my TDI. It took a while to find one with a 5 speed, but it was worth the hunting. I cant believe this kind of pick-up from a standstill on a diesel. And naturally, unless youre in the market for a hybrid, you cant beat the mileage. Plus, even though the car is (comparatively) low-priced as far as German sedans go, it seems to be an eye- catcher, not to mention that there almost seems to be a TDI clique/club/cult? Comfortable and stylish interior for two adults (dont plan any road trips for four 6-footers) Only real complaint is: why doesnt VW give up on the dial knob for seatback adjustment that theyve been using ever since the (original) Beetle?

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  Great car but still needs work - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jettanut - November 28 - 10:00 am

  Overall quite happy with the car comfort and handling super especially tight corners and turns the turbo makes it all worth driving and gas mileage is pretty good 600+ kms highway driving / tank bad things so far all four doors sqeak and required constant lubrication also striker pin adjusted weekly on front drivers door (creaks when car moving under 20 km/h)

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  Perfect - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By vwMike - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I love my new car! I am so addicted to this car its unbelievable. I love pulling up to a stop light and seeing all those Japanese car (used to have a Honda) rev thier engines. I always wave to them in my rear view mirror as they are eating my dust. Mods are cheap and easy, mostly bolt ons.

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  Love The Car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tazz - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I bought a used 2000 GLX VR6 with about 38000 miles on it in March since then I have put about 4000 miles of my own and am totally pleased with my purchase. The car is fun to drive, smooth, quite, and very comfortable. In one long weekend I drove about 1800 miles and even after a 12 hour run from ATL-PHL the car was still comfortable. The Monsoon sound system is very nice, climate control system works well, and I like the heated seats.

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  headache - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Brians - November 22 - 10:00 am

  Once things start to break, it is all over. Windows falling down are a constant problem. Door handles are peeling apart. Computer chip in front driver side door shorted, which causes the car not to realize the door is closed, and dings for the first 2 minutes of the ride. Mass airflow sensor, fuel pump relay have had several problems and replaced multiple times. Fan for A/C and heat broke. Windsheild washer fluid doesnt make it to the windsheild.

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  Good car overall - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By benj - November 22 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is a great one with some minor flaws that would greatly inhance it. The seats are so uncomfortable, no rear seat room, drink holder gets in the way of the radio. I love my car but, VW needs to revamp the Jettas design totally and add a little more luxurious features to it.

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  It is so much fun - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By heclinder - November 22 - 10:00 am

  I have had more powerful and bigger cars but none that are more fun. Last summer, I traded in my 1998 Maxima SE for a Jetta, Wolfsburg edition. It was a great decision. The drive of the Jetta is so responsive, tight and perky. My favorite car previous to this one was my 1998 Jetta. This has many more creature comforts but what a car and what a drive!

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  38k miles does not lie - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Roger - November 21 - 10:46 am

  In 6 months I realized how poorly designed it is and you get real concerned about the long term reliability of this vehicle. When you get into the drivers seat, you will always have to dodge the side bolsters. The cars ventilation system makes clicking sounds and this is normal according to VW. My car since the purchase date sometimes refuses to turn over when started, nothing wrong that VW could find. Trunk release does not open in cold weather. If you want an oil change, either buy your own filters or go back to the dealer, nobody stocks them. Gas fuel door was replaced under warranty as well as rear fender clip that holds bumper in place.

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  Not happy with reliability - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By evohog99 - November 17 - 11:10 pm

  I bought a 2010 model Sportwagon TDI in January 2011. Last model available on clearance sale. It is the fully loaded one with the huge sunroof and all the goodies. DSG transmission. Had it 3 and half years it has 70K on in and this is the list of problems I have had. Sun roof problem Injector failure Injector wire harness failure Transmission cap broke and leaked tranny fluid out. Now the AC went out this weekend The transmission is extremely expensive to do regular maintenance on. I would only recommend a stick shift to anyone buying a VW TDI.