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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  Unreliable Jetta - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By MyJetta - April 24 - 2:00 am

  I would never buy another VW. This car has costed me over 2500.00 in the past two years. Several problems that are a small fortune to fix. Not reliable and always in the repair shop.

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  MANY SMALL PROBLEMS = ONE BIG ONE! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Wont be back! - April 24 - 2:00 am

  I PURCHASED THIS CAR USED WITH 16,500 MILES ON IT. BY THE TIME IT HAD 18,000 I WAS ALREADY REPLACEING THE REAR BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS. EVERYTHING THAT IS MADE OF PLASTIC IN THE CABIN HAS BROKEN AT LEAST ONCE. THE REAR BRAKES STILL HAVE ISSUES THAT HAVE NEVER BEEN RESOLVED AND THE DEALERSHIPS CRACK MECHANICS CANNOT SEEM TO FIGURE IT OUT. THE ENGINE EATS COOLANT, THE COOLANT LIGHT COMES ON RANDOMLY IN COLD WEATHER, AND THE OIL FILTER IS IMPOSSIBLE TO CHANGE ON YOUR OWN! RUN AWAY FROM THIS CAR!

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  okay car - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By dallas2k - April 24 - 2:00 am

  lot of problems early. (ac, suspension bolt, coolant reservoir leak). all covered under warranty. only drive about 500 miles/mo. now, and no problems in over six months.

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  Dont Overlook the VW Jetta - 2017 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Carroll Baldwin - April 23 - 9:10 am

  I had a 2008 VW Jetta, and really liked it, but the 2017 certainly shows 9 years of improvements over my old car. I got another Jetta for several reasons - I loved my previous one, the price was fantastic, and the 2017 had many more features and extras over the former one. In my new Jetta, I feel like Im riding in a luxury car, without the luxury car price. It was a much better deal than the 2015 Toyotas I found, and it was new! Im sold, and have had enough experience with VW that I can highly recommend them. This time, dont go with Consumer Reports - you wont be sorry.

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  GLI VR6 SPORTS SEDAN - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JASON - April 22 - 10:00 am

  HAVE ONLY HAD THE CAR FOR TWO WEEKS.SO FAR HAS BEEN A FLAWLESS PERFORMER.GAS MILAGE A LITTLE LOWER THAN EXPECTED SO FAR.

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  Volkswagen Stinks!!! Fooled me once..... - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Lacy - April 22 - 5:40 am

  Ive had brake problems for 3 years which Brakeway finally diagnosed and fixed. Then my tranny went out and it took over a month and $5k to fix. Now I got spots on my hood, roof, and trunk which was determined to be manuf. defect, but they wont deal with it because my warranty is out. The console is flimsy trash and my d. side door handle assembly came apart when I tried to close the door in the winter, but the latch assembly froze, on a German car! This is the first car I cannot work on myself. My fuel economy is around 30mph, though others are getting 40. I can truly say the dealer sold me a lemon that I still have to pay for. But, Im not paying to paint

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  Dont buy this car - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Dorian - April 21 - 7:26 pm

  the 1.8t is a beautiful car, its not bad on gas and its fun to drive. But do not buy this car, this car will bankrupted you. their are so many electrical problems (automatic window problems, trunk opening problems light problems ect...) that you will run into (and its a lest of $300.00 to get each of the problems fixed). so if you buy this car you better get use to having check engine light permanently on.

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  GLI - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By summersbo - April 21 - 2:36 am

  My 2005 VW GLI was an absolute blast to drive, when it drove. The clutch and flywheel exploded(yes exploded) at 30,000 miles leaving me stranded. A clutch and flywheel should last longer then that, 100k maybe. I ended up trading it in on a Toyota. VW are engineered with driving performance in mind but are poorly built. If your willing to deal with the expensive upkeep then this is an excellent car. But if you want reliability go with something from japan. The reliability track record of VW will prevent me from buying another.

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  everything breaks or gets stolen - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By antennastealee - April 19 - 10:00 am

  Everything inside breaks...glove compartment, rear ash tray, cupholder, and the design of the mirror knob is poor. If there are multiple drivers who are different hights and have to change the mirror, too much handling will break it.

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  German sports sedan at a very good price - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JohnnyV1 - April 17 - 11:26 pm

  I was in the market for a used Audi/BMW but I decided to buy a new Wolfsburg Jetta instead. I have to say that I am not disappointed in the decision because the car is very fun to drive. The shifting action with the manual is very clean and precise. The engine makes a lot of power when you stomp on the gas or you can make it conserve fuel if you baby the accelerator and keep a conservative shift pattern. Coming from an economy car, this Jetta feels very tight when going around corners or merging into traffic. I do have a few gripes. The sunroof even when closed is very noisy at highway speeds. There also does not seem to be a lot of storage space.