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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  Torn to love... - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JETTA01 - November 7 - 7:36 pm

  I "WANT" to love this car. Its been tough though. I test-drive other cars and nothing is better then my Jetta. Yet, I dont trust it. I am disappointed in the electrical problems, yet love when it runs right.

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  Fantastic Auto - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By dan sr - November 4 - 10:43 am

  In May 2006 I bought a new 06 TDI Jetta with Pkg 1. We wanted Pkg 2, but it was not avaliable. We drove to Maine from Florida with just one fill up. I average 47 mpg. Our last two autos were a Cadillac DHS and a Toyota Avalon XLS. My wife and I enjoy this TDI better than the last two autos. We also own a 2002 Jetta GLS TDI. It is slightly smaller than the 2006 model. I love them both. I am looking forward to purchasing another TDI in 2007.

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  Jetta 1999 VR6 GLS - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Steve@USA - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I loved the car when I purchesed it, but this changed as problems arose. High maintenance and a lot of problems. Replaced several seals and gaskets, a/c, transmission, catalytic converter. The car only has 61,000 miles. Costly to repair because only dealership mechanics can practically fix these cars.

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  New to VW and hooked - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Patrick Jamet - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I just bought my jetta and so far there is nothing to complain about. the 1.8T engine is incredible. the build quality is great. I looked at hondas and toyotas while shopping for my new car and VWs interior design and solid feel sold me.You must take a good look at a jetta if you are in the market for a small sedan

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  AMAZING!! screw all engines but the 1.8T - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By RyanPortland - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Ive had several Honda civics and after this last one was stolen (AGAIN!) I decided to check out Volkswagen. I literally drove the car down the street and knew instantly that I would be purchasing it. The 1.8T engine is the funnest I have ever driven. If you dont beleive me just test drive one. This car is beautiful on top of it all. Get the leather and sport suspension with 17" wheels. It makes it an entirely better car.

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  2009 Jetta SEL - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By hegemon - November 3 - 8:06 pm

  Fantastic Car. Super fun to drive. Reliable so far...

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  Fast Whip!!! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By bigtoysa4 - November 2 - 10:00 am

  Very impressive vehicle for $24K. Fast and more fun to drive than my 99 Audi A4 2.8.5spd!

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  Excellent buy for the money! - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Rachelle - November 2 - 2:53 am

  I drove the Mazda 3 Touring and sport and originally wanted to purchase the VW GTI but after driving the Jetta, I loved it! The interior of the VW Jetta blows away the Mazda 3 since the Germans just pay so much more attention to detail. The gas mileage on the Jetta is about the same as the GTI so why not get the extra room? The car drives great, has room, looks great and should last forever! I LOVE IT!

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  Loved my GTI 1.8T, Realy LOVE the GLI - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By shadyant - November 1 - 12:56 pm

  I looked at the Acura TSX the Mercedes-Benz C230 Sport, but I just fell more in love with the features and comfort and feel of the Jetta GLI. I got an 06 GLI w/package 2, sirius, the navigation system, rear airbag and spoiler. Previously, I had an 02 GTI and loved it so much I didnt want to sell it but I needed more room. I get more for less money with the Jetta than with the C-Class or the TSX. They had similar features, but felt not quite as put together as the GLI. On top of that in most of the reviews I have read the GLI was put on top. I must say I agree with that end result! I love this car, driving and the feel of the car on the road are great. I would say they could lessen the wind noise, but I normaly have the radio up too loud to hear it anyway :-)

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  How can you not love it? - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By StfRon - October 29 - 2:00 am

  Do your self a favor- drive a Jetta TDI.