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:

• 

  Nice ride :) - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Kathy - March 18 - 7:53 am

  I bought this car from my son who is a VW fanatic - he shows and races them also. This car has all the bells and whistles and is fun to drive with the 5 speed standard transmission. Car handles excellently and has great pick up - I have to keep an eye on the speedometer because its easy to get a ticket! Get decent gas mileage but have to use the best grade gas. I get 300-350 average miles on a tankful.

• 

  You need to drive one - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By T - March 15 - 12:50 pm

  This is my third and favorite VW. I have previously owned a 00 Golf, 01 GTI VR6, and an Audi A6 4.2. The Audi is the standard I have come to judge all other vehicles by and the TDI stands up well. The power/economy ratio cannot be disputed. It does lack power over 80 mph but the torque from 10-60 is great. The DSG is the most amazing transmission I have ever driven. It is lightning fast and smooth shifts plus one more gear than the stick! I bought the car over the phone and did not spend enough time checking fit and finish on the lot; as a result I have found a few build quality issues. They are minor overall, but really check your car out before you drive off, Hecho in Mexico. Great Car!

• 

  VW NIGHMARE - 2014 Volkswagen Jetta
  By serge_vw - March 14 - 1:20 pm

  This whole experience with VW has been a NIGHTMARE! I was complaining about fuel consumption of the car (14 mpg on 2 liter engine) since September. I took the car to the dealerships 4 times! 3 times - to Royal, and 1 - to Serramonte. They both REJECTED not only to fix the issue but even to test the car properly!! Royal told me that I have to pay for the test myself! WHY? The car IS on WARRANTY! When my car was at Royal they gave me a rental car which I paid for twice more than they have reimbursed. Serramonte just declined giving me a spare car or reimbursing any taxi expenses! None of them fixed anything!

• 

  A great, reliable car. - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Dragos - March 12 - 2:00 am

  We bought our GLS new in 1997. It has a manual transmission and a 4cyl 2L engine. My wife and I have put 158k miles on it and it still runs great. We maintained our VW well and had ONLY ONE technical problem: all 4 power windows started to fail in 01. We were always impressed by the steering of the car in wet/snowy/icy conditions. We have driven it numerous times across the mountain passes in the winter and it has behaved admirably! The manual transmission has proven to be extremely reliable and it has always helped us in controlling the vehicle and having more fun driving it. This Jetta model has by far the largest trunk in its class.

• 

  The best value - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By outbackflyer - March 12 - 2:00 am

  This thing is everything I wanted and more. I tow a small trailer (about 600lbs) and I still get ~45 MPG. Currently have 30k miles and going to do my own oil changes. Did research and found the best oil is Delvac 5w40 from Mobil. You can find it at most truck stops. It is full synth and has a C4 rating. Most dealers dont use the right oil and charge $80 to change the oil. check out www.tdiclub.com for more info. I found them extremly helpful.

• 

  Six Speeds! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By J Warner - March 12 - 2:00 am

  The GLI is definitely the BEST Jetta to own! Lots of power, easy handling, and sport suspension make this model my favorite. No complaints except for the "ghost" fuel relay problem I experienced one month after purchasing the vehicle. I took it in to the dealer for service because the engine stalled a couple of times. I was told it could be a fuel relay problem, but they couldnt replicate it. No problems since.

• 

  POS Car, company and experience - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By dAve - March 11 - 10:00 am

  Definitely NOT the experience of owning two Hondas. Oxygen sensor problem at 40K, car burned oil for first 24K miles, still occasionally burns oil, bad suspension caused premature tire wear, very poor paint -- scratches too easily. Poorly designed front bumper, held on by plastic clips that pop off easily. Catch a high curb and it will come right off. VW of America was less than cooperative. Not recommended AT ALL. The dealerships were very good at "going to bat" for you and getting coverage.

• 

  Solid sedan - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By furrey - March 6 - 10:35 pm

  well built sedan-excellant handling, braking visibility-great stereo-cruise all day a 85mph-great for avoiding pot holes,back seat is for dogs or small people -I am 64" tall so not great for long rides behind the driver-just enough electronics as to not to act as a distraction

• 

  every month a trip to the dealer!! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jmm - March 5 - 10:00 am

  I have had to take the car back to the dealer for every conceivable repair, thankfully all under warranty. This car has had major electrical problems-- the engine, the brakes, the transmission shifter, the windows, etc. It is a nice looking car, and fun to drive (when it is running), but it has been extremely unreliable.

• 

  jetta 1.8t - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jgeeb - March 5 - 10:00 am

  this is the most fun ive had driving a car since my old GTI. upgrade the turbo with a simple 10 minute chip upgrade and now youve got 200hp in a $19,000 car.