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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  TDI - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Hunter - November 20 - 8:46 am

  Bought solely for the TDI and it has been flawless. However maint issues, susp noise, glove box latch (4th Ive seen), rear window leaks when lifted up via the wiper mount. Overall has been a good car, sat, CD, seats, and we love the sunroof. Mileage, best has been 42 hwy wo ac, 39 with, hoping for better, but it only has 9k miles. Free maint is good, but should cover more. Had to shop for a fair price so be careful, some dealers will bend you over the table. I would suggest highly an extended warranty, not feeling to safe. Sold my 08 TL Type S due to gas mpg and job change and wish I still had it due to the maint issues already on the VW.

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  Long term value - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By javoice - November 18 - 1:08 pm

  Lets see what I should say about this car: with $10,000 HPFP failures, sunroofs which doesnt close, doors which doesnt shut right, intercoolers which ice up in cold weather, rear cupholders which get stuck even after dealer fix it and more Fact: no car is perfect but also the fact is how many cars are out there which can devlep a mechanical failure which cost more than 1/3 of the price of the car to fix it? Another sad fact is the company which doesnt take responsibility to admit to the problem and blames the poor quality fuel. It is not like that the fuel quality was good here before! I made a mistake to buy one. Thats all! READ VW FORUM

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  Drivers Wanted......Driver Found - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Boldenwh - November 17 - 6:30 pm

  VW guys did their homework with 06 Jetta GLI. I purchased the 6M w/sunroof, leather and spoiler. This car looks great inside and out. Its balance between performance and fuel economy is hard to match. It is a very safe, quick, luxurious solid car with all the right touches. I like the painted brake calibers, mirror turn signals, etc. It is a perfect balance between sport and luxury appointments. This car simply turns heads. It delivers excellent power from the turbo. Other than that, the GLI was my clear choice over the 325i, Altima SE-R, Saab 9-3 and others. Great job VW!

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  Most unreliable car I have ever owned - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By NMS - November 16 - 10:00 am

  The Jetta GLX is a fun car to drive the engine is powerful, the handling is great and the brakes are respectable. Unfortunately this car is so unreliable I can not recommend it. So far I have experienced a fuel sensor failure, a broken center console clip, a coil pack failure, spark plug wire failure, a catalytic converter failure and a mass airflow sensor failure. To make the situation worse the car only came with a 24k mile basic warranty so I had to pay for the coil pack, wires and mass airflow sensor myself. If you are in the market for a new car avoid the Jetta GLX.

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  First Review - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By gurnlark - November 16 - 10:00 am

  The Jetta GLS Wagon is an excellent family economy wagon with great performance for very enjoyable driving. Its low cost compared to the Passat makes it well worth the sligthly less room inside. The only downside is difficulty with freezing-up doors and difficult windshield frost in the extreme cold(minus zero temperatures.

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  Great so far - 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kristin124 - November 14 - 7:15 pm

  Ive only had my 2013 Jetta SEL for two months, but its been pretty great so far. I like that its got a sporty look inside and out, and I like the leather interior. The acceleration is pretty good for 170HP and the ride is smooth overall. My main complaints are some cheap aspects of the interior - for the price I paid and having the premium trim line, I cant believe it doesnt have power seat adjustment. Also, to tilt the chair back, you have to pump this plastic pedal up and down (tacky). Also, even when you move the front seats all the way back, there isnt enough leg room for tall people over 6 feet. Not much head room for tall people either. Could have designed that better!

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  Easy to Drive - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jordanv2323 - November 11 - 2:06 am

  Probably the eaisest car to drive. It is great for its day!!

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  so far so good - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By james bond 2 - November 10 - 10:00 am

  Had this 1.8T since March of 2003 So far the only problem has been a "cracking" sound when ever I start the car and proceed to turn right or left for the first time. Apart from that no other majour problems

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  Good Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By CoolJetta - November 10 - 10:00 am

  Good Car, Great engine. Cool Interior.

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  2008 S Model Jetta - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jetta - November 8 - 12:46 am

  This car rides quietly and has some pick-up, however, I feel it gets below average gas mileage that is one of my biggest complaints. I can go about 320 miles before I have to refill the tank. I drive a lot of highway miles and they advertise that the car gets 28 or 29 mpg highway, however, that is not the case. The air conditioning works pretty well and I like the ipod adapter in the car. I have a sunroof on my car but noticed that when its open and I drive there is a considerable amount of air noise, its kind of annoying. I love the amount of trunk space in the car - very roomy! Also it can comfortably fit 4 adults in the car. I believe there is even 3 seat belts in the back.