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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  Totally Outstanding - Love It! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jsparks - August 19 - 10:40 pm

  This car is the best I have ever owned. The Tiptronic is a really sweet option and the rain-sensing wipers are awesome...especially here in Seattle!! The drive is smooth and you can feel the tires grip the road. Driving in the rain on wet pavement with the ESP is like driving on dry pavement. I would recommend this car to everyone that wants a high-end quality vehicle for an affordable price!

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  Assessment - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Althea Stennett-McDo - August 19 - 12:03 pm

  This vehicle has been most reliable however we have been experiencing water leakages associated with the radiator resulting in the need for the gasket to be changed. I would like to sell same and need to have an idea of the cost. Vehicle was involved previously in an accident.

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  Love the Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By meljr - August 17 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Jetta, had a 5 speed GL for 3 years, just got an automatic Wolfsburg and I am in heaven. So easy to drive, takes turns so smoothly. A lot of pick up, no turbo drag. Wont buy anything else. Love the Jetta.

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  Now I Know - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Shirley - August 16 - 4:03 am

  I bought this vehicle from a friend who leased it. Couldnt figure out why she was getting rid of a new sharp car. Now I know, it is falling apart. Brake wires underneath car are a hazard. The shocks squeak and It sounds like a transfer truck when you crank it. Grear shift stuckin park now its broke and nothing keeps it from slipping out of gear. Last but not least the air bag light keeps coming on faulty. That has been fixed twice. Not to mention two wrecks and no deployment?

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  A LOT OF BANG FOR THE BUCK!! - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Andrew Collins - August 14 - 3:02 pm

  Having owned nothing but Toyotas for the past 5 years, I was skeptical about switching auto manufacturers (if its not broke, why fix it?). But I can honestly say that for the price, I cannot imagine a better car. The 1.4 TSI gets GREAT gas mileage and has way more punch to it than its competitors. I was downsizing from a 2015 Toyota Highlander Limited Platinum because I had to start commuting further to work and needed better MPGs plus the $675/month car payment was killing me. I went from getting an average of 21 MPGs to getting 36 MPGs and the payment was more than cut in half. Having said all of that, I should be up front and disclose that I went from having the mack-daddy of vehicles to having a VERY basic car. But for $16,300, I got a HUGE bang for my buck. The technology package features Apple Airplay as well as another feature for Android users that allows the driver to use the USB port to mirror certain phone apps with the vehicles radio display. So if you dont have pockets deep enough to shuck out the extra bucks for navigation, you can now use your iPhone map app on the display in your car. Its extremely helpful and charges the phone while its plugged in as well. The 1.4 liter turbo-charger will be plenty of pickup for the size of the car. In fact, Im not sure why they continued the 1.8 TSI this year because the difference between the two is negigible, in my opinion. The 1.4 gets better gas mileage than its big brothers as well. I wasnt impressed with the acceleration of the Toyota Corollas and Honda Civics, to the point that I almost thought they were a safety hazard, a huge selling point for the Jetta. The Jetta has the same old boring, German dash that it and the Passat have had for years. Theres nothing spectactular about it. If you have never owned a VW before, itll take some getting used to and unfortunately the owners manual isnt much help. But the layout is very basic, something that I really like about the vehicle. I hated how the Civic was laid out with its radio controls slanted towards the driver and the Corollas features were forgettable. The Jetta also has a larger trunk than its competitors, something thats very desirable if you have to haul things once in a while. All in all, Ive been very pleased with this car. The higher-end versions are even more impressive, if youve got the pocketbook for them. But for something basic, I cant tell that it gets much better than this.

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  Overall College Car - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ryan57us2009 - August 13 - 7:13 am

  Ive had my Jetta for almost two years. I tried to drift once but I forgot I had a FWD so I smashed a curb costing me 2,500 $!!! I love switching into step-tronic or w/e its called to give that extra kick of acceleration. Great on gas but It is a girl car so society says but w/e. Really interesting bass in the car too! never thought my Jetta would be bumping bass that good.

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  Efficient and Fun - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Warren - August 11 - 10:30 am

  This car is so much fun to drive, not to mention its getting ~43mpg over the first 5,500 miles (its not even broken in yet). It is fun to drive and the heated seats are great! The DSG automatic transmission is awesome! I also have the option to run up to a 5% blend of biodiesel (which I do). This is a great car with lots of room (Im 6 tall and dont have to put the seat all the way back).

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  great deal, practical car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By slcastle - August 11 - 2:00 am

  I love this car! I thought it would be too small for my 6-5" husband, along with our 2 year old twin toddlers, but we actually do fit just fine - for it to be a second car. The car is a great deal because of the diesel engine, once we saw it we were hooked - we will be saving over $150 a month with the incredible gas mileage. The safety of the 6 air bags is unbeatable - and not even offered in other sedans of comparable price. The interior is sleek and well-made. We looked at everything - but Volkswagen won mainly for crash test ratings, retaining its value (60% after 5 years!), and gas mileage, making it a practical car.

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  So far so good.... - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By swdcin03 - August 11 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car with reservations but the interest rate and warranty made me take the chance. So far not one problem and Ive driven it hard. Like others have noted the back seat needs improvement but I hear that is coming in 2005. The cupholders ... dont hit a bump with that soda can not being held! Other than those minor issues I have nothing bad to say....Ill be able to write more once its back from the body shop. Nice drive side swiped me two weeks after making the first payment!

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  Break all at once - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By farid - August 8 - 12:36 pm

  I was disapointed with this car, despite the low mileage (under 45,000 at purchase) it start to break starting with the engine mounts, axels, brakes, engine lights went on since I changed the spark plugs. The bottom line its not fun as advertised, I liked my old Corrola 90 with 130,000 miles on it better.