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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  Great car - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jerry - November 17 - 1:46 pm

  This is a great car for the money! I enjoy driving it in the mountains of So. California. It handles great and has massive brakes when you need to whoa up. I get decent gas mileage considering the amount of power it has.

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  Wonderful, wonderful car – Best Ive ever owned. - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By nick_89 - November 16 - 7:27 pm

  I am staggered by the negative reviews, because that in no way been my experience. With 90,000 miles and counting, I have only had to replace two light bulbs and a brake master cylinder – thats everything since I bought the car in 2005.5. The highway MPGs are consistently above 35-36 without any effort. The car is incredibly comfortable and handles very well for a FWD car. I frequently take it up to the mountain for snow activities without traction tires or chains, and it takes is like a champ – trucks look stunned when I pass them effortlessly. Incredibly safe, reliable, and cheap to own and run – Ill certainly buy another one (I have my eye on a TDI SportWagen).

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  so far it is great - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By swb1509 - November 14 - 6:36 am

  This TDI is great. The road dynamics are excellent and the build quality is truly remarkable for the price. It has not needed fuel yet and has over 500 miles on the odometer. The manual transmission is one of the best I have ever had, since I have never owned an automatic I am a very experienced with how a manual transaxel is supposed to feel. I test drove the DSG and althouth it seemed fine I was afraid it would be the only thing to eventually break since I keep a car for about 12 yrs on average. If you get a Jetta make sure you get the TDI It comes with most of the options. Love it

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  I loved my car, but it was unreliable. - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By vdub4lyfe - November 14 - 2:42 am

  I got a jetta turbo. the timing belt blew, then the tranny went out. i sold it cheap and bought a bug. I loved the jetta. I would buy another one, but i fell in love with the bug. make sure you check the history with any foreign car. especially make sure the timing belt was changed before you bought it and that the oil has been changed regularly. And dont let the VW dealer lie to you and steal your money.

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  FUN WHEN IT RUNS - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JL1971 - November 14 - 2:00 am

  MY GLI HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR 5 WEEKS. I WAS BLESSED WITH THE YEAR THAT HAS IGNITION COILS THAT FAIL ON YOU. I AM TOTALLY DIAPPOINTED IN THE VW RELIABILITY. WHEN I GET THE CAR BACK I MOST LIKELY WILL TRADE IT IN FOR SOMETHING RELIABLE.(NOT VW)PARTS AND REPAIR SHOULD NOT TAKE MONTHS TO COMPLETE.YET THEY EXPECT TO GET THEIR PAYMENT ....NOT

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  Best Car I Ever Owned - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By dreno276 - November 11 - 5:36 am

  I purchased the GLI just over two weeks ago, and I have put over a thousand miles on it because I cant stop driving it. I love the way the car handles, performs, and looks. You get a real German sports car feeling with the GLI that just cant be matched for the price. The car seems to have endless power, and handles like its on rails. I bought the base model with the plaid cloth, and had the dealer install the iPod adapter, and feel that Im not missing a thing. I have owned many Hondas, and traded a 2005 Altima for the GLI, and there is just no comparison.

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  Wow!! - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By MannyT - November 10 - 9:43 pm

  I just purchased a VW 2008 Jetta S automatic. From the moment I test drove it I was sold. I test drove every other compact sedan just to make sure but the Jetta is head and shoulders above the competition. Not to mention that you get sooo much for your money. Many standard features on the VW are options on the other vehicles. This is a classy car with great performance and comfort. The boost in horsepower in the 2008 models is definitely nice to have. The trunk is huge! Great interior design and layout. I can go on and on. IF you havent test driven one yet... its a must!!

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  Not a good choice - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By bcr410 - November 9 - 1:09 pm

  This car has had nothing but problems, major problems. To begin, there is a air leak seal issue in both the front and back windows causing a wistle sound that is very annoying. Electrical issues with the horn / heated mirrors not working, and most recent, a rack and pinion that failed. I will never buy another VW And would not reccomend anyone else buy one ither.

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  A year under our belt - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Cramerica - November 9 - 10:00 am

  We love our Jetta. We even settled for the 2.0 as a 1.8T was not to be found. Handling is sharp with a nice tight turning radius. This wagon zips in and out of parking lots with ease. Great visability. This wagon is designed for the real world. I bought it for my wife but the reality is I cant wait to steal her car. Never a problem...

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  Good Car - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Phil - November 8 - 5:26 am

  Bought the car new and have had very few problems. Replaced the glow plugs at 100,000, and fuel economy is not what it used to be ... but it still gets over 40 mpg. Great car on the highway or country driving. Feels like a sports car.