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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  1 month - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By - January 8 - 10:00 am

  so far so good, love to run this car on home heating oil 85 cents a gallon, but afraid of voiding my warranty,anyone had problems in this area? some say yeah, few say nah, wadda you say.................CAPT KIRK

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  Love the car - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By morris411 - January 7 - 3:03 pm

  I spent 2 years looking for a good commuter car. I bought the tdi sportwagen last month and it has exceeded expectations. Ive been getting 39-45 mpg. My 64" husband fits nicely and theres still enough leg room in the back for two boys or not so tall adults. The storage in the back is great. Big enough for an 80 lb dog. Love the way the seats fold flat for transporting larger items.

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  No Fun Any More - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By No Fun Any More - January 7 - 8:10 am

  I keep hearing about how great this car is, how long it will last. But I dont think my bank account can hold out that long. Initially, I loved this car, though I had little things go wrong. And the service is expensive (just to reset the engine sensor!). Now more and more major things are going wrong and I cant wait to unload it. What a disappointment, cause its fun to drive and gets good mileage. But not reliable... makes me nervous.

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  07 Jetta VP - 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
  By J - January 5 - 7:33 pm

  I bought the Jetta thinking it was a German car that was pricey but worth the money due to the materials and workmanship. I am incredibly disappointed. When I picked up the car the keyless entry didnt work and the radio had interference. The dealer to date is unable to fix the radio. It sounds bad enough to drive me crazy and not terrible enough for the VW people to care. They replaced the radio once and it still is not fixed. Even worse I had to visit the dealership 7 times to have them keep trying to fix it. That is not including the 8 times for them to fix my keyless entry. I have only owned Hondas until this VW. I will never buy a VW again.

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  What a great Auto!!! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Snubby - January 5 - 10:00 am

  What a great car...For the last twenty years I have owned nothing but Mercedes, and one Subaru Outback bought this year that I quickly got rid of (what a piece of junk)and replaced it with this Jetta. Only 1,000 miles on it and all is functioning well. It is so fun to drive and I think they are made better than the MEBE I was thinking of buying.

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  I am very, very impressed. - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By klance - January 5 - 10:00 am

  The Jetta looks great, runs great, feels incredibly solid and is amazingly quiet on the highway due to the low RPM of the diesel. It uses so little fuel, my average being 46-49 mpg, that I often forget when I last filled up. Suspension a bit soft for my liking; added Neuspeed/Bilstein Sport suspension, 205/55HR16 sport tires and rims, and now Im in absolute driving heaven. Smmmooth transmission! Interior reminiscent of high-end luxury imports, stock stereo kicks butt. Aftermarket performance and body styling options are endless. Before I bought my first Volkswagen, driving was a chore. Now I come up with excuses to drive. Driver Found.

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  The Real Deal - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By The Pirate - January 5 - 9:56 am

  Had the car for two weeks and put just over 1,500 miles on it. Snow in NE kept it in the garage a few days. Had one small glitch with sensor in the exhaust system, which was fixed right and on time. Since then shes been perfect. Ride is firm but supple. Seats are super supportive, great on long drives. Steering is fantastic. Engine and trans are THE BEST. Very torquey diesel and DSG really suits it well, a great combo. The negatives: heat in a diesel is a long wait; heated seats make up for that. Control knobs for heater are smooth/slippery to the touch. The pillar between front/rear window is huge. Takes some moving about to see around them. All in all a great long range cruiser!

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  Fun Sedan - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Coness - January 5 - 9:13 am

  Test drove VW Passat, CC and Nissan Altima before purchasing. Clearly the Passat and CC were smoother rides, but the Jetta definitely out performed the Altima in terms of performance and features. If the Jetta had some of the cosmetic features the Passat or CC had, itd be a perfect car. Then again if it did, whod buy a Passat or CC?

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  Try and buy it - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Yves - January 5 - 4:06 am

  I have tried almost all of the new 2006 sedans in the same price range. The Jetta was the last one. So I try the Jetta 2.0T...after 5 miles my decision was made. I cant get out of this car. This car is just the deal of the year. Almost all the new techonology is made for the driver. The engine is superb and brakes are powerfull. ESP is very helpfull and it is a great safety feature, and the DSG transmission makes you feel like a super driver. The interior is well designed and comfort is like many other pricy cars. I have had no problems with my Jetta. People that rate this cars build quality and reliability less than 9 should list the problems they had. Facts talk better than imagination.

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  Fun to drive, drag to fix - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Dan - January 4 - 6:50 pm

  I owned a 2001 Volkswagen Jetta, my friend owned one and my parents, and wife had a VW Beetle. All were fantastic to drive, super peppy. However, in the five years I owned it, the check engine light was off for only five months. Something was always wrong. Only the coil recall made it not driveable, but all of the issues were annoying. Its brakes needed replacement after 15,000 miles. Its arm rest broke two times once by a valet and once by friend (one screw is a dumb design). This car has a high clearence compared to Hondas. My wifes 02 Beetle 1.8T also had all same engine problems and more. The Jetta is expensive to fix. I spent $900 fixing it once only to have check engine come back on three weeks later. All that and on lease turn in they still charge you $250 for check engine light that is never off.