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:

• 

  Not smooth enough - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By sloto - January 29 - 1:53 pm

  I am a 76 yr old that still likes performance. The acceleration is amazing. And that is the only thing that will make you realize it is a diesel. However maintaining speed in traffic is annoying. Especially when braking. It seems the auto transmission wants to help slow you down. This should make the brakes last , but a real pain trying to maintain driving distance. The cruise control must have been designed by Mr Volkswagens kid. Long over due for modernization. The wipers are backwards to every one elses. Fuel cap is on right side, real handy AARGH

• 

  Loved this car!! - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Gail - January 28 - 3:10 pm

  I bought this car when it was three years old, and it drove like new. Id been wanting a Jetta for some time and it was everything I hoped it would be. The car is very comfy and everything on the dash and console was within my reach. In the five years I had it, it only had a few engine troubles, and it never cost more than $200 to fix. I never had the $1000+ repair bills like with previous cars (Nissan, Plymouth, Dodge). It served me well for the five years and 120K miles on it. I would still like to have kept it for a few more years, but I just got rear-ended and sadly its totaled, so now Im getting a 2005 Jetta Wagon! I love these cars!

• 

  what will fall off next... - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By last VW? - January 27 - 10:00 am

  71,000 miles... 4 exhausts, starter (@26k miles, dealer said was not surprised.. and wouldnt cover a new one), altenator (@45k miles, not covered), power steering pump, radiator, 3rd set of tires (alignment does not hold), body molding falls off, trunk leaks, randomly stalls in the rain (plugs, wires, dist. cap, solenoid, etc.. replaced 3 times), AC unit died, interior lights behind dash died (~$500 to rip out dash to replace $3 bulb). This thing is less reliable then the old land rover I have, and maintance costs are about the same.

• 

  Love this car - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Gio313 - January 26 - 10:00 am

  My dad bouth this jetta from a friend he was a mechanic so the engine is upgated its a pretty fast car he passed the car on to me my sophmore year of highschool im a juniour now so ive had it for a year so far i only have given it an oil change n new tires for 150 i olso changed the window motors got them at the juck yard for 50 bucks pretty cheap if u get a jetta n u noe how to fix minor details u can go to "pick n pull" and get most of the parts relly cheap. Willing to buy another one anytime very reliable never broke down since my dad had it like 4 yrs before i did

• 

  2006 Jetta TDI - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By nancy l - January 24 - 5:20 am

  The Jetta TDI handles very well. I like the ease in steering and the cornering ability. The trunk capacity was a factor in my purchase decision. The quality of materials and construction is most impressive. Also, we are pleased with the safety features such as the airbags.

• 

  After 18,000 miles continues to impress - 2014 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jamie - January 24 - 1:27 am

  I cant imagine somebody test driving cars in the $20K price range and not settling on the Jetta. Its so refined and crisp to drive, its amazing that its price point is with a Ford Focus or Kia Forte...etc. Its drives like it should cost $10K more than it does. I havent had a single issue in nearly 18K miles. Engine is powerful and silky smooth. Transmission shifts are quick and precise. Handling and ride quality are terrific as is the gas mileage. And the seats are simply awesome and the interior is roomy. The interior isnt techno-gimmick filled or very colorful. But I could care less about that stuff. This is a drivers car and its always fun and engaging. Zero regrets.

• 

  Absolutely Thrilled - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By texas lady - January 21 - 3:23 pm

  After 25 years of driving Suburbans and Silverado 4WD diesel pickups, I was ready for a vehicle that gets better gas mileage. I was a bit apprehensive about a smaller car, and didnt have opportunity to test drive a Jetta prior to purchase, so that added to my anxiety. My fears were completely unfounded. I am thrilled with my new Jetta TDI! It handles incredibly well, is gorgeous, and has wonderful amenities. The diesel engine is very quiet. My long-legged family has plenty of space in front and back seats. It was a 350 mile drive home from the dealership, and the car averaged 50.2 mpg on the highway, far above the estimated mpg. So far Im getting over 40 mpg in town. What a terrific car!

• 

  Good car overall - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Driver Wanted? - January 21 - 2:00 am

  My Jetta has been very reliable and a good daily driver since I bought it. The car has decent power once revved up. Engine space is large and easy to work in (ie oil changes, filters, fluids, etc.). The gearbox on my 5spd is somwehat stiff, moreso than other VWs Ive driven. Seats are comfortable around town, but less so on long drives. The passenger seat sits too high (Im 62" and my head hits the ceiling unless I slump down). Ergonomics are excellent inside. The tiny cupholders and lack of a center armrest are a bummer (but have changed with the newer Jetta).

• 

  Good car. - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By a23 - January 21 - 2:00 am

  This was a very reliable car. At 50,000 miles, there are absolutely no problems. It was a little short on power, and I wish it had tiptronic, but overall, it is a cheap, reliable car.

• 

  Great Car-LOVE IT!I l - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jetta Darling - January 21 - 2:00 am

  My family of 3 has never been happier with any car ( and we have owned Hondas, Toyotas Fords,etc ). We can always rely on it to get us anywhere we want to go, and in a hurry too.