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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  Great Substiute for BMW 3 Series - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jonathan D - June 5 - 2:00 am

  Being a former BMW 3 series Driver when it came to buying another one costs on BMWs have just skyrocketed. So being a german car owner I turned to Volkswagon for a hopefully good escape of paying over 30,000 for a comfortable and powerful sedan. So I test drove the Jetta GLI. I was very impressed by the performance and comfort. The only complant I have is that it dosent have the Multi- Funtional Computer.

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  My First Jetta - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Bruce - June 4 - 4:46 pm

  I was somewhat hesitant to purchase a VW because of everything I had read regarding the quality of the car, but I was pretty much sold after a test drive. The 2.0T has much better performance, exterior styling, in addition to what I believe is higher quality interior materials than the other cars I was considering (e.g. Accord, Camry, Altima). The only weakness I can see so far is the fuel mileage and the cars requirement for premium gas. The car has been averaging about 22-23 mpg in mostly city driving. While this is in line with the EPA ratings I had expected better. I havenÂ’t done any long distance highway driving with the car yet so I canÂ’t comment on the highway performance.

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  They got it right--except little stuff - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Melweena - June 4 - 10:00 am

  Overall, Ive loved owning VW Jettas. The A/C and Heat are quick to the rescue in tough Wisconsin weather, and the tork in the engine is enough to keep up with quick lane changes in downtown Chicago. If it werent for just a few cosmetic issues, this vehicle would be superb!

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  2000 Jetta GLS VR6 - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By VI1654 - June 4 - 10:00 am

  Overall this car is an excellent choice for a compact sedan. The biggest negative is the fact that the front bumper is very low to the ground and has a tendency to become stuck on parking curbs. So, beware. Aside from that, its great fun to drive and has minimal problems.

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  Very Unreliable for a VW - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By psykosonik - June 4 - 10:00 am

  Just to let buyers know there are several issues to be aware of before purchasing a new or used 2000-2001 VW Jetta. They are very prone to issues. First off, I bought my car new in Aug 2000, it is a 2001 VW Jetta. In less than 2 years have had an Oxygen Sensor recall, both Driver and Passanger Window regulators have broke, resulting in the windows falling inside the doors, the electrical wiring has had to be rewired, the Brake Switch broke and needed replacing, and the interior plastic is already peeling. I have owned VWs in the past and am just beside myself at the poor quality of this car!!

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  Not Too Shabby - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By stoker - June 4 - 10:00 am

  So far, so good. This is a great a car for 2 people. Its quick and stylish. Ive never had a car that got me so many compliments. The back seat is a joke however. Its embarassing to have to give anyone a ride. You can actually drive and reach anything in the back-seat without a problem. The sunroof is a little trick to operate at first.

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  This cars for "Drivers". - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By MarNChar - June 4 - 10:00 am

  We bought the car on the 6th of June and took a trip of 2700 miles, returning on the 16th. We drove Interstates 15 and 80, and Hiways 4, 16, 49, 50, 89 from Provo, UT to Murphys, CA; to Sacramento to Sierra City, to Truckee, up to South Lake Tahoe, back to Utah. We got over 500 miles per tank(12 gals. used each fillup); even doing 80 mph with the AC on, loaded with luggage for two and camping gear! Freeways in UT & NEV are 75 mph. On curvy hiways 4, 49, 50, & 89 the car handled like a Ferrari - really fun to drive. The only flaw with this vehicle is the sun visors! Theyre too short! Otherwise, this car is near perfect for around town driving and long trips.

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  WOULD NOT WISH THIS CAR ON MY WORST ENEMY! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By theandyn - June 3 - 8:29 pm

  I bought this car 5 years ago after I graduated high school to have a more reliable car for driving back and forth to college. I have literally had this car in the shop for something new needing to be fixed every single month. I had a 96 mustang before this and it had about 50,000 more miles on it and I never ONCE had it in the shop for anything but oil changes. Not to mention, everything is TWICE as expensive to fix because its a foreign car This car has been my worst nightmare and I just got done paying on it. Now the transmission is about to go and now I am forced to buy another car instead of having the luxury of no car payment. If you want something to last, please do NOT buy this car!

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  Great Car! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By af030 - June 1 - 10:00 am

  I have owned my jetta for almost two years now, and have put 27000 miles on it. I commute a great distance every day and have experienced no problems with it. The only thing I have noticed is that the back window causes a loud wind noise when it is rolled down. The CPU light came on one time, but have never seen it again.I am not understanding why anyone else could have experienced so many problems with it. It definately has the feel of a luxery vehicle.

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  Turbo Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By chemtw - June 1 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car for almost two years. It has been great. Its fast, passing power is there when needed. Great handling.