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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  2001 VW Jetta 1.8 Turbo - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Gary B - September 13 - 11:03 pm

  We have had our 2001 Jetta now for a little over two years. It was basically bought for my wife, who doesnt drive many miles. Overall, I think the car is, at best, average. I find the leather seats to be extremely uncomfortable. In fact, I cant seem to drive it for more than fifteen minutes before my lower back starts killing me. I also dont find it to be user-friendly at all. The cupholders are in the way of the radio. Personally, Im sorry we bought this car.

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  Amaaazing Car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By VWNut02 - September 11 - 5:26 pm

  I bought this car after a serious accident in my turbo Subaru. I love the design, safety features, style and performance. Its got the upgrade factory 17 inch alloys and spoiler. This car looks tough. I bought it with 52,000 miles on it in 11/05 and have already put 16,000 miles on it. This car is hands down one of the best Ive owned. I have had no major service issues to date. Im a satisfied customer. VW: Drivers Wanted!

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  2002 VW Jetta Wagon Diesel - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By lindamh - September 11 - 10:00 am

  I love my car! It is fun to drive, great on diesel, lots of room in the back and more with the 60/40 split seats down. I like smaller cars and I need room as I carry lots of "stuff" with me for my job. Last week the back was full with a wheelchair, I still put 3 cases of wine and 2 boxes of food in the side door with no problem! I would definitely recommend this car to anyone.

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  MyJettaGL2.0 - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By anubhav - September 11 - 10:00 am

  I recent bought this new 2003 jetta GL 2.0L. I am satisfied with its performance. Fun to drive. String. Reasonable acceleration considering the fact that it is V4. I had a hard time finding the 12V outlet, but it was hiding "nicely". Music system is good. Wish they have MP3 support too. Man this is file swapping era. NEway, The only problem that I see this is a fuel consuming car. I dont thisnk that I drive that bad, but I am getting even less than 20 mpg city. Their test rating itself is 23. So expect yours to be close to +/- 20.

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  Jetta - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mossgreen - September 11 - 9:56 am

  I have had a very rewarding experience with my car. It achieves 28-30 mpg on premium unleaded. It has incredibly firm and comfortable seats that are appropriate for even the longest drives. The engine is very low maintenance (and very smooth and quiet). Most engine fluids dont need to be changed often. My VR6 is on a 10,000 mile synthetic oil cycle, and it doesnt use even one drop during that time. Im very impressed with the thoughful engineering that went into this car, and its ability to drive long distances with ease. I believe this can be attributed to its large wheels, large motor, and 5 speed manual transmission.

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  Biodiesel 03 TDI - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Eric J - September 10 - 2:36 am

  Bought an 03 Volkswagen Jetta TDI with 60,000 miles on it. I drove it home, changed the fuel filter and oil and filled up with 100% ASTM certified biodiesel. Now we get avg. 47 mpg hwy and run on domestically produced renewable fuel! The 177 ft lbs. of torque gives this car all the muscle anyone needs to cruise at 70 and have a good time on the road.

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  2007 Jetta Wolfsburg edition 5Cyl Auto - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Greg - September 9 - 10:00 am

  This car is very fun to drive, and for its price its well worth every penny. Im a male 23 years old, and sure the jettas are typically known to be "chick" cars, which i found ridiculous, personally. But that just goes to show people, than buying a big truck doesnt make you a man, rising above the influence and not giving a damn what people think perhaps helps. But anyway, what i do find a bit irritating is that the aux connection is in the glove department, which is pretty inconvienant. I dont know what those germans were thinking. The turning radius is great, and for a 150hp it accelerates very well. Lots of space in the trunk, sound quality is decent, heated seats are amazing.

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  Sport utility for people who love cars - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By roady-m - September 9 - 10:00 am

  Fantastic car. Was always a fan of VW quality and driving dynamics, though got spooked into Asian cars a few years ago due to reliability woes. This car, though, with its perfect combination of driving dynamics, utility, efficiency, build quality, and understated good looks called me with her siren song. Improving VW reliability of late, tax credit, and great price made it irresistible. Traded in a Honda Civic, which was bullet proof, though tired of driving an appliance. Feels great to be enjoying German driving experience again. Avg 32 mpg in town, 45 on the hwy.

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  2010 Jetta LE 1 Month review - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By todddr - September 9 - 10:00 am

  Have had this car for 1 month. I quite like it for the price; I turned out around $23k for the LE with sunroof and a few other extras. A friend told me the Jetta was a "poor mans BMW." Well, I used to own a BMW 3-series, and overall value for the VW has impressed me so far. For slightly over half the BMW price I have a German car...granted built in Mexico...but a good solid feel and ride. Decent power, and cruises the freeway at 90 mph quite well. Some reviews mention poor braking--I dont get that impression. Also, some other reviews mention engine noise; I dont find it "noisy" at all...a little growl that I kinda like.

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  Best Car we ever bought. - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Coveylane - September 7 - 11:36 pm

  We have had very little problems with this car. In most cases a car is only as good as its dealership. Anything we have had problems with were repaired under warranty. They switch our tires from Summer to Winter and store our tires at the dealership. We have had a cv joint replaced but this is due mainly to our poor roads in Nova Scotia. Paint peeling from front edge of rear drivers side door. Dealer paying to repair that. We get nothing but compliments on our flashy bright white Jetta TDI.