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:

• 

  second time around - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By stephen walker - February 11 - 11:13 am

  My first vehicle was a VW Jetta 4 door and the problem list was endless. I just purchased a 2004 Jetta Wagon after doing a little reseach and I must say what a difference. The engine is better, the convenience package is better and wow is it fast!

• 

  80k - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By chucky15 - February 11 - 7:03 am

  Got this guy new in 2010. I have put close to 80,000 miles on it since. For the price a great car. Fuel economy is amazing( especially if youre a mostly highway driver). Ive averaged 45 mpg in mostly highway driving. City driving gets 32mpg. The torque band is equally awesome. DSG is fantastic. As it is a VW and a diesel you can definitely count on annoying little things going wrong with the electric(AC went out, covered under warranty, O2 sensors died wayyy earlier than they should have etc). The one BIG issue I had was the High Pressure Fuel Pump exploding and destroying the fuel line. VW covered it as they know its an issue.Hope I can get 200k out of it.

• 

  Drivers wanted b/c the cars rarely run - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mcdc - February 10 - 5:40 pm

  While I love the way VWs drive, mine has been in the shop at least 3 times a year outside of normal servicing. Last year I had to invest $7000 to keep it running, and I have under 75,000 miles on the car. New expensive problems crop up ever 6 months or so. If you love to sink $ into depreciating investments and spend time at the shop, then this car is for you!

• 

  VW Jetta GLS 2.0 - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Gary_y - February 10 - 10:00 am

  I had a very good experience with my Jetta, bought it in 2001 have 60000 miles on it, never let me down or had any kind of problems, changed tires at around 45K and rear brakes, front brakes have almost no wear even at 60K, car likes synchetic oils, overall solid build quality.

• 

  Turbo Difference - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Turbo/Boy - February 10 - 10:00 am

  The 2002 Jeta1.8T is an extremely quick car. I love the Jettas passing power. ruising on the highway I can switch my Automatic Tiptronic over to manual and downshift to 4th gear and fly around just about anyone. The styling of the exterior makes it one of the hottest looking cars out there, which might explain why there are so many of them on the roads!

• 

  2003 Jetta - Wolfsburg Edition - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By rileyken - February 10 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car. It has very good handling and performance. ThereÂ’s lots of power with the 1.8T Engine. CarÂ’s Interior is attractive. The adjustable sports seats and leather steering wheel and leather parking brake are a plus. The overall quality is very good.

• 

  Great car! Just keeps going, going..... - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Christine92001 - February 10 - 10:00 am

  Great fuel economy car! People are amazed, they say they didnt know VW made a Deisel car! Its sporty, fun to drive and keeps going going going and going! We fuel it maybe twice a month and we drive it alot!! Highly recommend this car to anyone who does alot of driving!

• 

  Great little car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By oldyeller556677 - February 10 - 10:00 am

  Picked up my Jetta TDI in late June. Great little car. My new job is putting me at 30000 miles/year. I was driving a 2000 E150 conversion van. The fuel savings alone will cover almost half my payment!!! Im hitting 44 mpg just scooting around town - I can now see why everybody says they blow by 50 mpg highway with these.

• 

  Awesome Car! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mrcleano - February 10 - 10:00 am

  Ive driven nothing but Mercury Grand Marquis and needed a smaller city car with enough power to not make me regret trading in a V8 4.6 liter engine. To my surprise, the 1.8T had perfect power and was right in my low 20K price range. I bought it in Platinum Gray with Monsoon, Cold Package, ESP. Ive driven it for over 6000 miles and consider it to be the best car on the market because for a reasonable price you get a ton of options along with 4- cylinder that drives like a V-6. Theres no need for a VR6 unless you want ALL the features, but at their price, Id just buy an A4.

• 

  My love/hate relationship with this car - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By katelin22 - February 8 - 6:30 pm

  About six months after I bought my car (my first car ever), the splash shield separated from the bumper and crumbled into a million pieces on the freeway. I took it to the dealer, and they said that my insurance should pay for it and that this happens all of the time because the European make of the car causes it to catch on US parking curbs. I went to my insurance agent and they said they werent going to pay for it, because it wasnt due to an accident. I had to pay $1800 in repairs out of my own pocket. I have since had problems with my drivers side door, and my brakes almost didnt stop my car on a hill. Expect to apply a large amount of pressure on your brakes to stop at high speeds!