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:

• 

  German is not always quality - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Former Jetta Driver - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car brand new and after 5 years put 60000 miles on it. Service intervals cost an arm and leg. Quality is terrible. Car was cupping tires, the electrical in left door failed, lights burn out randomly, paint peeling of interior buttons and radio. Speakers stopped working. Do not buy VW, this is not the same German car it used to be years back. It is the biggest piece of junk. The dealer always makes excuses when there is a problem and blames it on wear and tear or customer fault. This car was terrible. It only had 57000 when I traded it in to get rid the junk.

• 

  Absolutely amazing car for $250/mo w/ no money dwn - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Balki Bartakamoos - August 7 - 10:47 am

  The more I drive it, the more I like it. The overall design of all of its functions was very well thought out. Its not a sports car with a ton of boost, but be in the right gear and its plenty quick, handles great, is comfy with plenty of storage, great electronics connectivity and controls with apple software support, and a very quiet interior 2x better than any car in its price range. Its really like theyre giving them away. I cant possibly imagine a better car for the price. I feel bad for the people paying all that extra money for the GLI as theres no way its that much better than the sport and for many thousand dollars more, I highly doubt it even compares once a month when you have to make the payment. Maybe Im just bias coming from a soul crushing ford focus, but I also have a racecar and this thing is a great time for a daily driver.

• 

  Absolutely amazing car for $250/mo w/ no money dwn - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Balki Bartakamoos - August 7 - 10:47 am

  The more I drive it, the more I like it. The overall design of all of its functions was very well thought out. Its not a sports car with a ton of boost, but be in the right gear and its plenty quick, handles great, is comfy with plenty of storage, great electronics connectivity and controls with apple software support, and a very quiet interior 2x better than any car in its price range. Its really like theyre giving them away. I cant possibly imagine a better car for the price. I feel bad for the people paying all that extra money for the GLI as theres no way its that much better than the sport and for many thousand dollars more, I highly doubt it even compares once a month when you have to make the payment. Maybe Im just bias coming from a soul crushing ford focus, but I also have a racecar and this thing is a great time for a daily driver.

• 

  Jetta VR6, the Wrong Purchase - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Natalia Samoilovich - August 5 - 1:06 am

  I bought my 2000 Volkswagen Jetta becasue I thought it would be fun to drive and extremely reliable. Boy was I wrong! Fun to drive it was, but terribly unreliable. Within one month of purchasing the Jetta, it was in the shop for electrical problems for the next 5.5 years. This car was in the shop every 3-4 months for 5.5 years. Once the warranty ran out, ouch, is all I have to say. For the dealership just to look at the car cost $94, and usually the repairs were never less than $300 at a time. The transmission had problems twice after 5 years of ownership. If you buy this vehicle, please be prepared to have a large headache. I would not recommended it to even my worst enemy. This car was a curse.

• 

  What a Piece of Junk - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Kristen - August 4 - 6:36 am

  Okay, this is all I have to say about the 2000 Jetta... what a piece of junk! I bought the car from an independently owned dealership (I learned my lesson from that) and the car was running great, Carfax checked out, everything... the next day after I purchased the vehicle, it wouldnt start. It needed new starter. I got that replaced, then three days later, it didnt start again. The sensors started wacking out on it. I took it to two other VW shops, they couldnt figure out the problem. I traded it in three weeks after purchase date for my 1999 Honda Accord, and I love it! It has no problems whatsoever! Dont buy a VW, they are pieces! I did the research, and they are building these things in Mexico! German quality? I think NOT.

• 

  Unsatisfied - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Daisys mom - August 4 - 2:00 am

  I was an owner of a 4 cyl. auto. Toyota Corolla for 10 yrs. I had to trade it in because it was burning oil and just getting tired but it was very good to me. I should have stuck with Toyota but the Jetta seemed like fun and it had a solid body. I switched over and purchased a 4 cyl. automatic Jetta. I have only owned it for 6 months...it is burning oil, shifts very roughly (jerks you forward) and is running very rough. I am extremely dissapointed. Now I have car payments (I didnt mind taking on) but I also am running into repair bills in the near future. DO NOT purchase one of these vehicles. I am going back to Toyota!!!!

• 

  Water Leaks Galore - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Kit - August 4 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Jetta in the last 4 years due to severe water leaks on the inside of the car. The first was so severe that I had to lease a new Jetta. The same problem has happened twice now to the same car. The water has damaged the carpets and created an awful mold smell in the car. Volkswagen will not acknowledge that this is a problem. Never happens when the car is driven. Only when sitting in one spot overnight.

• 

  like it - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ro - August 4 - 2:00 am

  very good money invested

• 

  Nether Buy Jetta - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Kira - August 3 - 10:00 am

  My car was in service 17 times in 2 years. Couple times they kept the car for 4-5 days, because they do not have parts (?!) and need to consult factory engineers (?!). Engine malfunctions, oxygen sensors, water pump, multiple electrical problems, security system failure - all "excitements" of going to service almost every month + endless hours in a way trying to get some answers from Vw service. With very appealing interior, its very poor quality makes this car absolutely unreliable. Please, do not make your life miserable - do not buy Jetta.

• 

  hsssssssssss - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By lovin the vdub - August 3 - 10:00 am

  I love the car. Upset that the 2001 has only 155 hp and the 2002 has 185, but these things can be fixed. Easy to work with and one of the best manual cars I have driven. I put about 20,000 miles on my car a year for work and I have never been uncomfortable for a second. Nothing like the feeling of driving in 6 inches of snow and not having to worry about the ABS or traction control not working. I was passing most of the all wheel drive vehicles.