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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  Had the car for about 2 years and some change. - 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jesse Vail - November 17 - 4:03 pm

  I get a lot of complements on the look of the car and passengers love the heated leather seats here in upstate NY. Only have had 1 issue so far and that was a bad crank position sensor which caused the car to jolt and stall while driving with no check engine light, went to dealer and was told "Unfortunately youre going to have to drive it until a light comes on" which kind of sucked considering my pregnant girlfriend rides in the car and it stalls leaving is short handed as far as power steering and hydrolic brakes. Other than that I LOVE the Fender Sound System, it sounds amazing. Tons of trunk space. Fun to drive and navigation has yet to leave me stranded! Thats a plus.

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  Worlds better than last gen - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JD - November 17 - 8:40 am

  The new Jetta is soo much better than the 2004 model that I test drove. The new car has more standard features roomier, faster, and handles much better. The little touches are what makes a car better than its competition and VW has loads of them, from the rain sensing wipers to the turn signal mirrors with the courtesy lights in them, and the blue gauges are a nice touch as well. I went to the dealer looking to buy a diesel but Im glad I didnt this car gets better mileage than its rated 30 hwy I averaged 32 mpg and have heard stories of 37 mpg if you drive at the speed limit. If your looking for a lot of car for not too much money give the new jetta a try you will be surprised.

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  Lots of Fun - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Alin I. - November 17 - 3:16 am

  Ive already put 5,000 miles on my 2006 Jetta GLI, package 2. The only problem so far happened at 1000 miles when it wouldnt start after a heavy rain. The dealer could not find anything wrong, they just replugged the battery. I previously owned an 03 Passat 1.8T and I have to say the Jetta is much faster and fun to drive. At the beginning I was reluctant about the DSG tranny as I had only manual tranny cars in the past. DSG is more than manual and automatic transmissions combined! It is faster than a manual, with no torque converter, commodity of auto in traffic jams. The fuel consumption for a 35 miles/day commute city and highway combined is 24-25 mpg - not bad for performance, just a bit more than my old Passat. Price $27,300.

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  Love it, better than Civic, but......... - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mykaelp - November 16 - 10:00 am

  Great looking car, a little expensive, have had problems with it. Mainly it would die starting it in the morning when it was cold outside. Dealer fixed it after several days, lousy service from them, and they broke my cruise control and had to go back to them to fix that. I have a lot of squeaks and rattles that would never happen in a Japanese car, dont get me wrong I love it, but VW needs some quality improvement to make me loyal.

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  Hot Rod Wagen - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jettajunkey - November 16 - 10:00 am

  We purchased a VW Jetta Wagon with the VR6 and Sport suspension. It has seen a lot of miles and we havnt had a single problem. The workmanship is outstanding and the performance is amazing. This little grocery getter wont stop for groceries. It just blows on by. Its a blast to drive and always wants to be driven. The only complaint I have is that its hard to drive slow. If they can change the location of the cupholder, I could cruise all day. This is really a Passat, except $8,000 dollars cheaper. This is my first VW and I am really looking forward to the V-12 powered Toureg. No more Hondas/Toyotas for me...Im hooked

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  Not really worth it. - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By bj789 - November 16 - 6:22 am

  I owned my Jetta for almost 3 years. It was initially fun, but as I put miles on the car the check engine light became a familiar occurrence. Took it to independent mechanics to save a little on repairs but it seemed like Id leave just to have another issue crop up. Started taking it to the local dealer so of course I paid through the nose for repairs (like all German cars). While not quite as expensive as my Mercedes to maintain, it still felt weird paying a premium for maintenance on a non-luxury badge. There were the enjoyable times with the car, it was loaded with great features and it was quiet and quick. But in the end, the bad outweighed the good.

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  Great Car! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By stevo - November 15 - 5:20 am

  The 2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL is a fun car that is good on gas. It has an excellent interior design and provides lots of features for the price. It has tons of saftey features for the family at no extra cost.

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  This car saved my life! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Faina S - November 14 - 2:36 am

  I was in a snow / ice storm and as I was heading towards an underpass I lost control and went into both sides of the underpass damaging the car but had no serious injuries, the car stayed in pretty good shape so I am happy to have a repeat purchase from this company.

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  Great Car - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jordan - November 14 - 1:36 am

  I bought the car because my other three cars all got around 13 mpg. The Jetta was a great choice. It is safe, well built, and handles really well. I have owned it for about seven months and have had no problems so far. In mostly city driving I have averaged about 27 mpg and on highway around 35. I bought the car for $17,500 and it does not feel like a stripped model with its rich materials and high build quality. It has everything a person needs standard: power windows (w/express up on all four), an alarm, A/C, tilt/tellascoping wheel, and a huge trunk (I fit myself and three of my friends in there for fun!). As for the performance it is no Corvette but it has suprising power and torque. What a great car!

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  READ THIS & WEEP FOR VW - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By XvwOWNER - November 13 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Turbo Diesel, 5spd Manual. Theres not enough room here to list my gripes about this poorly built car. Ive learned to hold parts of the dash while driving. From the first 14 miles, I notice SMOKE. Then, the cruise failed, with such a rough idle, you cant run the AC while idling at traffic lights. Oh no, whats that, an engine light? Come on VW... quit torturing your customers. Signed, a future X-VW owner.