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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  The Best Car Yet - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By wombat - February 8 - 11:56 am

  Overall the 2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T is an outstanding car for a an unbeatable price. It delivers great performance for a car that gets 33 mpg. I had the engine chipped by APR and it was like new (215 hp & 247 torque). this car has excellent handling AND ride for a short wheel base car with a sport suspension & 17" wheels (its a bit stiff, but not bad). it had just the right equipement and was $5,000+ cheaper than any competitor. The original Michelin tires are a poor choice for this car. Tire Rack has much better choices for less money. So far, it has held up very well. The only issue has been a rattling drivers window. Everything has been flawless for 50,000 miles. VW service depts have been less than stellar.

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  TDI Horror - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By John - February 7 - 10:10 pm

  My TDI was great until I hit 60000 miles then a check engine light came on. Replaced sensors, cooling kit, thermostat and the intake flap motor 3 times. Check engine light still on and VW wont take any responsibility for faulty design on flap motors. Ive spent over $2,000 already. Owners of TDIs beware!!!! Sell your car before it goes out of warranty because VW will not stand behind thier product.

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  What was i thinking.... - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Emmaly - February 6 - 1:30 pm

  I love VWs I really do. And then I got one. It has been nothing but problems. I have finally stepped out of denial. The check engine light has been on for three years. You name it, Ive had it done. The warrenty has more than paid for itself! I think Ive had $8,000 worth of work done on it. I had the infamous window drop problem, faulty locks, peeling rubber/leather, a constantly broken cup holder, console, seat adjuster. It is time for this car to go. Maybe one day they can get me back - I hope so.

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  Solid Car...Falling Apart - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Robin - February 6 - 7:36 am

  When I first bought my 2000 Volkswagen Jetta I was excited about how well it handled and how solid it felt on the road. That might have a lot to do with the fact that it is so low to the ground, which at times makes it tough to get out of. My biggest concern has been the electrical problems and incidental repairs: the window fell out, the drivers side window motor broke twice, the catalitic converter was recalled, the cup holder broke, the glove box broke, and the trunk light and panel lights are out.

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  Fun drive - Mediocre reliability - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kmm - February 4 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car for my son back in May- 2003 and I must admit that it is very fast and a blast to drive. The car handles and performs well except for a bit of turbo lag. Interior is adequate. Having been spoiled by Japanese quality, I was dissapointed with unreliability of the car. Since buying it 5 months ago, it has been in the shop 5 times - 3 little things like a broken trunk lock and twice for dead batteries. The volkswagen dealers been very good throughout however, providing loaner cars, etc. Overall we like the car, but would suggest you consider the trips to the service dept.

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  Nice Car - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Diesel Guy - February 4 - 9:06 am

  The Jetta TDI is a great car. It has good power and I have been getting 41 MPG to a high of 49 MPG with all highway driving. If more people would test drive these little diesels they would buy them.

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  Great Car! - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Lyndy - February 3 - 2:23 pm

  I bought this car in January and already have 13000 miles on it. The dealership has given me great deals on maintenance and I havent had any problems. I love how it drives and it is easy to handle. This is the first new car Ive ever bought and its great. So far its been a reliable, low maintenance car!

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  Best bang for the buck, but misses on MPG - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By sallywagg - February 3 - 8:27 am

  I bought this car for one simple reason: CHEAP! You cant beat the price for the size and standard features that this car has! The only issue is that VW really missed the mark for fuel economy and the crappy tires really hurt its performance potential. However, this is the PERFECT car for a beginning driver or daily commuter!! It is truly the easiest car that I ever driven! Even though the engine is very underpowered for its size, the lack of power keeps you out of trouble from stand-stills and the stability/traction controls keep you in check once under motion As much as I love this car, I gave it low numbers because, to keep it cheap, VW sacrificed the quality of this car.

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  Really enjoyed this car - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Christian Wade - February 2 - 11:33 pm

  I owned my 01 Jetta Wagon for years and really enjoyed it. It was pretty trouble free but there was some maintenance that had to be done to keep it that way. The gas milage was great and it was fun to drive. Lots of room in the back of the car and that was great since I have a very large dog. I thought that the rear seat was fine for kids but tall adults would have a tight fit. Some of the coating on the interior parts was weird. It was rubbery and would scratch off. I also found that the sunroof drains are a constant trouble. They arent hard to fix in the front but the rear are a pain. If you buy one of these cars know when the timing belt was done. Very important. I sold this car recently as I bought a Vanagon and didnt need two cars.

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  Awful Car! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ashley - February 2 - 4:20 am

  These cars are so cute! Ive had mine for a short time and bought it brand new, yes BRAND NEW and have already spent over $4,000 in repairs for stupid problems....not to mention they dont tell you...this car is not a German car...but in fact made in Mexico! It has terrible build quality. Oh yeah, and you need to put oil in it once a week unless you want the engine to blow, it EATS up oil !