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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  Never Again - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By verucasalt - February 3 - 10:46 am

  I will never again buy a Jetta. I was warned about how many electrical problems they have, I bought one anyway and now Im selling it, less than a year later. I love my VW, but she loves the shop and constant weekly (no joke) repairs. Research wisely before buying one.

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  PleasereadMy2000gl - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Oregoncar - February 2 - 10:00 am

  Overall, it is a nice car, but I do not like the rattles in the doors and dash. Started around 7,000 miles. With the 5 speed, I can not believe the fact it burns a quart of oil ever 1,000 miles. The sound system is so nice that it makes the cheap plastic mounting in the doors rattle. I Love the room throughout and the feel on the road (with earplugs on)! What is the issue with the Jettas, mine included, with the rear tail lights going out? A short somewhere?

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  Frome Camry Hybrid to TDI - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By plknj - February 1 - 11:03 pm

  Wow... the difference in the drive and feel compared to the Camry Hybrid is incredible. I feel like I am driving a car again. It corners beautifully and gets better mileage then the Hybrid. My trunk space has doubled since I no longer have a battery in the back. Its roomy and very comfortable and was $10,000 less then the Camry. Everything is better... the controls on the steering wheel are positioned correctly and all the controls in the car are very intuitive... it does not take a genius to figure anything out. A solid car with great mileage at a solid price.

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  good riddance! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By disgruntled_vw_owner - January 30 - 5:03 pm

  Finally got rid of my jetta last month. This car has caused me so much grief (and money) during the 4 yrs I owned it. VW replaced the mass airflow sensor after the car died on the highway while I was 8 months pregnant. A few months later the same thing happened so the sensor was replaced again. The car stalls after pulling from parking (cold start) everyday, and VW couldnt figure out how to fix it. The check engine light goes on all the time, after multiple trips back to VW they still couldnt fix it. The replacement parts cost so much too for something that was assembled in Mexico. The rubber material by the door peels and looks disgusting. Will never buy a VW vehicle again ever.

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  VW Secret - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By J Stajk - January 30 - 3:33 pm

  The GLI is great vehicle I love the way this car handles, shifting is smooth, gas mi 30 mpg hwy. Hard to stay under 70. Best vw Ive ever owned.

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  Unreliable - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By lulu - January 30 - 10:00 am

  -5/1999: Check Engine Light on. Unstable front driver seat. Covered under warranty. -12/2001: Not starting in the rain. Replaced coil pack. Water leaking inside from passenger side door. $600 not covered under warranty. Car still has problems in rain. -8/2003: Windows fell into the doors. Covered under recall. -10/2003: Airbag light on. According to dealer, passenger side airbag needs to be replaced. $500 not covered under warranty despite car never being in accident or air bag ever deploying. -8/2004: Gas tank blockage. Replaced under warranty. Several visits required because dealer "forgot" to fix.

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  Fun! Excellet value! - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By akb518 - January 29 - 7:20 pm

  This car is a REALLY good deal. Got it for about 21k and some change. To me, this is the best car for the money. It has upscale looks and excellent build quality. It doesnt look cheap like other cars in its class. The 200 hp turbocharged engine is a gem, very smooth and extremely powerful. You cant even feel it idling, very unusual for a 4 cylinder. The 6speed DSG automatic has seamless shifts and perfect downshifts. Perfect steering and smooth handling as well.

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  Improvement since 2009! - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By applevw - January 29 - 2:13 pm

  The interior of the 2010 Jetta has improved significantly over the 09 and previous models. The SE now have a standard touch-screen radio with satellite radio. The instrument panel is now white-backlit instead of the blue lit seen in previous versions that was hard to see. You will also notice the fuel economy has improved with 24 / 30 rating. So far, I am very pleased with my purchase!

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  Brochure Fraus on Package #2 ! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mislead and unhappy - January 28 - 11:50 am

  I bought a 2006 TDI Jetta package 2. Quoted in the 2006 brochure Under pkg#2 is listed "12 way power-adjustable front SEATS with 3-position memory." I did NOT get a power passenger seat. I have called VW of America to try to get some answers on why I dont have a powered passenger seat but have gotten nowhere. VW of America thinks I should have a "12 way power-adjustable drivers seat with 3-position memory". This isnt what the published brochure states. Also I dont have a self dimming day/night mirror either. I was told by VW customer care, this was part of package #1. According to the brochure, Package #1 includes package #2. I will never buy another VW!

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  What a Car - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Ken - January 27 - 9:53 am

  With just 8000 miles on the car and two recent long trips. The mileage continues to improve. 42 to 44 combined with the AC running. 6 speed manual transmission and engine are smooth, plenty of power. A round trip of 800 miles each way average speed 70 mph. Cost less than $87 in fuel costs. Nearly 640 miles per tank full (14 gal). Car is comfortable, and responsive. Loaded with extras, like the 120 volt AC outlet. This is standard on this car. Very quiet, smooth ride. A car you feel safe in. Plenty of space in the trunk. Needs to be driven before you spend your money on a trendy Hybrid. How long will there batteries last? And how much will they cost to replace?