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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  Boycott VW - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By BadBadJetta - December 9 - 2:00 am

  My problems duplicate the others, including the yellow door goo, bad oxygen sensors, frequent check engine light (cant believe it hasnt burned out yet), cup holder, peeling door handle, bad ignition coil, bad catalytic converter, and so on. I initially thought I had a lemon, but lets face it folks, they are all like this. After the last episode involving the catalytic converter, I will be rid of it shortly. Im at the point where I dont have enough faith to take it out of town. And current owners who gave good reviews....if you havent seen these problems yet, youre just pressing your luck.

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  VW Jetta - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By DawnD - December 9 - 2:00 am

  My favorite car, fast, fun to drive and lots of style. No need for an Audi or BMW when you have the VW GLX VR6. Its a great car with lots of features and you feel safe

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  Car Rocks!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Kent Ages - December 9 - 2:00 am

  I have read all the previous customer reviews, and I am just appalled that a car of this caliber can receive so much negative criticism. Maybe these people just are unhappy with their lives and nothing will ever be good enough for them. If this car is so horrible why dont you just go buy a $250K Ferrari or something. Bottom line, this car rocks!!! Anyone who says otherwise knows not what they do. Also another key ingredient for a pleasant experience for car ownership has to be the dealer in which it is purchased. I feel much better now. VW keep up the excellent work!!!

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  Ger. Engnr-good; Mex. assembly-bad - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tulas Mom - December 8 - 10:00 am

  I got in to my first car accident 16 days after I bought my first Jetta in Sept 2000. It was totaled and I am convinced saved my life. On the other hand, my new VW jetta (Oct.2000) drives like a dream but I have been hassled w/ the drivers seat cable breaking, the arm rest lock breaking, the engine light randomly coming on and dealing w/ a service team that thinks you have all day & every day to spend with them by turning what should be one visit into two. Due to these dumb things happening I am about to drop $1350 for the extended warranty (2001 models get the 24000mi or 2yr jippy warranty).

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  Poor - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Dawn Fabiano - December 8 - 10:00 am

  At 9000 miles a new transmission had to be put into the car. The service dept at the dealership has done all the maitenance on the vehicle and there is either an oil consumption problem or the service dept never checked the oil when I brought it in so 5 days later there was no oil registering in the engine. I also just received a recall in the mail about the ABS system potential to malfunction and cause a fire. For a 9 month old car this is unacceptable.

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  Awesome Car - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Max - December 7 - 9:10 pm

  This car is great. It has every feature imaginable. For around 25 thousand, you can get an amazing car, around 10 times better than any Nissan. Safety is good. It has 8 airbags, which are depowered and they turn off if very light people are sitting in the front seats. Reinforced metal bars in the doors. Fast and you do not feel the gears changing. GREAATTT CAR!!!!

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  BW loves his VW - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By BW - December 6 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car a month ago from Carmax and am very glad I did. I wanted did buy an imported car and was very pleased at the standard options that come with the S model of VW Jetta. The triptonic automatic is excellent, it has 6 speeds and has an S mode which is excellent at launching the car to terminal velocity at any street light. This car is very fast 0 to 30 and 60 mph to get on a highway. The gas mileage is great on the highway and gets at least 30 mpg. City mileage is disappointing around 20-22 mpg, but it makes up for it for being geared to go very fast. The trunk is HUGE! You have to see it to believe it. Its amazing how VW engineers did a tons of things great for this car.

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  Just what I needed... - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By pattimac - December 6 - 2:00 am

  After looking for a reliable, economical and affordable car, the Jetta was just what I was looking for and needed.

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  excellent car - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By pvtmack - December 6 - 2:00 am

  Driving the Jetta has been nothing but a pleasure. Its really very comfortable, reliable, and affordable. The gas mileage is better than I thought. Its a great looking car, inside and out. We enjoy the sound system and the sunroof. Driving has truly been an excellent experience in our new VW Jetta.

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  Great Value - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By RA - December 5 - 11:06 pm

  This is my commuter and our family car. one year and 10000 miles, at 40.5 mpg [I have an excel spreadsheet for mileage] for a car with 95% commute of half 35 to 45 mph then highway, total of 58 mile round trip for work. Mileage is getting better, with the computer reporting a best of 49.1 mpg one morning on the way to work recently, when I made all the lights. My only short trip was over 45 mpg, for a 300 mile trip. I love the ergonomic features of this car for its price.