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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  Ill Buy Another - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By La Bomba - August 30 - 7:40 am

  Purchased used from Ford lot during yr 2000. Upgrade options include sun/moon roof and remote key access. Weak on acceleration and tops for cross-country touring/hwy driving. Solid feel with matching reliability. 1.8L fuel injected gets about 33/44 mpg road/hwy, a must in todays economy. Tight in the back for big folk; however, far roomier than the VW Bug. The battery linked factory VW radio was a mess, so I upgraded it with a Pioneer system. Wide wheel base with FWD a plus in weather. Roomy trunk. Lots of elbow room up front. Stout frame is a snap to parallel park in urban places. Nasty tacky exterior rubber door guards fall off too much. Overall: very good touring sedan (A-).

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  poor decision - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By gsutton - August 28 - 2:00 am

  great car to look at, replaced 2 O2 sensors, brakes,bumper pulls off if parked too close to curb, chronic, unresolvable rattle in gear shift, console latch broke, mirror control fell off, cloth interior impossible to clean looks like %&*@ all the time. Never again!

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  What is the matter with Volkswagen - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Another Jetta Owner - August 28 - 2:00 am

  We purchased our 2002 Jetta due our past experience with owning several prior to this. The car has given good gas mileage, but has recently started to burn oil. We have had to have front windows repaired and the passagers seat repaired. Volkswagen feels that burning a quart of oil per 1,000 miles is acceptable. We are going to get rid of this car as soon as possible, before anything else goes wrong. Transmition started to jump on cold mornings. Dealer says transmition is compensating. What ever!! Alot of rattles. Too bad, we really wanted to like this car.

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  lovin it!! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By shwagen - August 28 - 2:00 am

  I just got my Jetta one month ago. I absolutly LOVE IT!! I love the interior lights, the styling, and the features (especially heated seats). It gets attention and I just cant drive it enough! Love it!!

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  Great Overall Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By avusblue - August 28 - 2:00 am

  Solid, "Euro" feeling ride and handling. The Jetta feels like a miniature Audi. Great quality interior. Very comfortable ergonomics, and the seats themselves are top notch. Styling is more classy than the competition. Nice details abound, like the beautifully crafted headlights. Again, fit and finish make me think Audi. I especially like the nicely illuminated gauges and switches at night. My average over 5,500 miles has been 28.1 mpg with the 2.0 and 5 speed. Its peppy in normal everyday driving and has a fat torque curve - enough power for my needs. Those that want more can choose the Turbo. I havent had a single problem with the car.

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  This is a truely amazing car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By rizk.ds - August 23 - 9:32 pm

  Ive been driving this car for months now, and it has been my first car, hopefully my last. Im at 260k+ miles and everything is good.

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  Great Drive - Fairly Reliable - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jimmycricket - August 23 - 10:00 am

  Ive put 35K on this since buying it and they have been a great 35K. Driven long distances, cities, twisty coastal roads are the best! Most fun Ive had in a car. Just started having some electrical problems, but until this not one single issue (other than molding coming off and having to be glued back). I am debating selling at 65K miles because of what could come. Want another VW - been a pleasure.

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  My First VW Purchase - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JettaTDILUVr - August 22 - 4:03 am

  This is the first VW we have ever owned and I am very pleased with it. My family was in a terrible accident with our Avalon, which ended up saving their lives. To replace it, I decided to get a more economical vehicle, but was looking for one with the highest safety rating and comfort in its class. Thus, I went with the Jetta. Historically, we have been loyal Toyota owners (2 Corollas, 2 Camrys, 1 Avalon, and our current Land Cruiser). I am thrilled with the fuel economy - about 46-48 mpg in town and 50-51 on the highway. I have Pkg. 2, and added every possible option to distinguish it from other Jettas. Although it is only fourteen months old, Ive put over 22,000 miles on it with no repairs needed. Just like a Toyota.

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  08 Jetta Manual trans - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tom in Las Vegas - August 21 - 6:20 am

  The 08 Jetta has very good, solid build quality, good power, excellent interior, and a huge trunk at this size of car. Mileage is so so, mine is right on the EPA estimate of 21-22 city, and 29 highway. Ride is smooth, and steering precise. Just enought road feed back to be useful to the driver. Driver seat should be wider, it is a little narrow in the seat, and I am not fat, just average size. Radio could be a bit stronger, and the ipod connector should be on the dash. If the Jetta just got slightly over 30 MPG, and slightly higher mileage in town it would be one of the best small to mid size cars. Plenty of interior space for 4 persons, 5 is a reach. The trunk is longer than my Camry.

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  I Love my Jetta - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Daisy - August 20 - 8:53 am

  Once I laid eyes on this babe I knew I had to get one. I originally wanted the Platinum Grey one but settled for the Blue Lagoon. Its fun to drive and the cupholders actually dont cover the CD player this time!