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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  Problems from the beginning - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By cmb2 - October 7 - 10:00 am

  I have had problems with my car since the second week of ownership. The dealerships tell me that I imagine the oil and smoke problems and Volkswagen tells me that they dont have any control over their dealers. Therefore, my only available recourse is the Better Business Bureau. I would NOT recommend a Volkswagen to anyone. The basis not only on mechanical problems but also on lack of customer service and concern.

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  2006 TDI JETTA - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Bill - October 4 - 5:00 pm

  Great car. One of the few cars to get better than EPA estimated mileage. Actually the EPA was way off and even further off with their new testing. EPA est was 36/42. We have averaged 41.1 mpg and it does not see the highway that often. We got over 49 mpg on one trip with 4 passengers and luggage! Has been extremely reliable.

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  Nightmare on Wheels - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By tenmpf150 - October 3 - 3:46 pm

  Weve nicknamed the car "The Black Dalia" if that tells you anything. Right from the get go this German engineered piece of Mexican craftsmanship has been a complete nightmare. This car has broken faster than I can physically fix it. First it was the clutch plates slipping, then it was the window off track, then it was the dashboard falling apart, then the seats always look filthy, then the door locks didnt work, then the interior lights, then the key fob stopped working, the motor burns a quart of oil a week, the MAF has gone twice, then the fuel injectors started surging, now the car bucks like a bronco, the doors wont stop chiming like they are open all the time!! and the list goes on...

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  Love this little car! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kerfoot - October 1 - 8:16 pm

  I got this lovely little VW eight years ago after driving an old model Ford Explorer and I loved the change! The Jetta has been so reliable and comfortable. Not to mention much better in gas mileage. The console is very convenient with all knobs and buttons within an easy hands reach. Very comfortable seats with plenty of leg room. Not to mention a HUGE trunk for such a small car. Very well crafted and sturdy. I always felt safe driving her. In almost eight years, she only was in the shop once for a sensor failure. With punctual oil changes and maintanence, the Jetta will run like new for a loooong time!

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  Solid Ride in a Small Package - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By V-Dub - October 1 - 2:00 pm

  We needed a new car for under $19000. Although more expensive than other cars its size - the solid construction and road manners were unmatched for the price. The 1.8 Turbo is a blast providing more that adequate power and is far superior to the standard 2.0 motor. Front seats get an A+ for comfort keeping me very happy for 3 hour runs. Seating in the rear is snug. Highway gas mileage is 27 - 29, only average for the class. Quality of interior and exterior materials seems excellent for class of vehicle.

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  Good Build, Roomy, Top MPG vs Power - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By F.G. - September 29 - 4:16 pm

  My 2006 Volkswagen Jetta TDI has impressive build quality (paint, interior trim, parts, welds). Its sharp looking with plenty of interior / trunk space for family of four. I am getting ~41 MPG with combined city / highway driving. It has good power and is very smooth / quiet at 80+ mph. Package 2 is pricey, but nice w/cimatronic settings and heated leather seats. The first dealer that I sppoke with wanted MSRP and the second wanted $1,000 over MSRP -- do research, get them competing, and you should get it close to invoice. I am not sure why diesel fuel costs 10 cents more that gas -- its easier to make! Also, only 1 in 4 stations have diesel, but I get many more miles per tank, so its not a problem.

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  Jetta Diesel is all for Fun - 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
  By tdi_all_fun - September 29 - 2:25 am

  After driving Toyota Camry for 8 years i decided to move on and try something that is fun to drive and at the same time has great mpg. I decided to buy Jetta TDI, i start loving it the moment i test drove it and bought it right away. I bought this in June 2011 and wanted to wait for a while before writing this review so far i have put over 15000 miles and getting 37-38 in 50% city and 50% highway. I drove it on long drive couple of time and noted 46 mpg which is awesome for car with a soul. So far i am happier with my decision to move to diesel. I dont think i am ever moving back to gas ever again.

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  Do not buy VW unless made in Germany - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By unhappy - September 28 - 2:13 pm

  VW are not made like they used to be, and until they do, do not keep one for more than warranty period. I grew up with my parents owning a beetle, Vanagon, rabbit, jetta, and all lasting 10 years plus with no issues. I bought a 00 jetta, kept until 45k miles and sold it to my sister, and thats when everything started failing. I bought a 03 jetta in 02; has 65k miles (fine until 50k miles when the warranty expired). Have spent $4k in past year in repairs. The electrical system is horrible! Factory radio died, temperature control module died, radiator fan and auxiliary fan failed, catalytic converter died, coolant leak, ignition coil problem, now my car wont start. Cant wait to see why.

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  My first VW - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By lsumd - September 28 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Jetta 1.8T after driving a Civic for several years. I looked at all of the cars in this class, including the Civic, and decided that the Jetta has them all beat: more power, better styling, excellent fit and finish, and a great interior. Its not a perfect car (I hate the cupholders as much as anyone) but it sure comes close! IÂ’d have to say that the best part of the car is the way it drives. YouÂ’ll just have to get behind the wheel and see for yourself. I highly recommend the 5- speed manual.

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  Happy Dieseler - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By sprouty - September 28 - 12:26 am

  Weve had our 2004 GL TDI auto (Tiptronic) wagon for 4 months and 7K miles. Love it! This car replaces a 2001 GLX VR6, and I dont miss the added power of the V6 that much. The TDI is wonderful--punchy at all speeds, with a great surge of turbo power always available. Gave up some creature comforts in going to the GL, but the seats are still great and the car still has good featutes. Tons of cargo room, and a great ride for long trips. We regularly average 40-42 MPG in mixed driving. A wonderful car! Our 2nd Jetta and weve been happy with both.