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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  ggggrrrrrrrreat - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By tony touch - October 25 - 3:10 am

  the best car ive ever owned. pure precision, in every way.

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  Fun to Drive - Reliable??? - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By alex - October 25 - 2:00 am

  The 4 cyl. Jetta is really fun to drive however the 2.0 engine is a little slow. Splurge on the V6. I too have had to have the car in numerous times for unscheduled maintenance. 2 oxygen sensors and a failed fuel injector. The dealership (Midwestern Auto Group - Columbus,OH) has been less pleasurable. They had a fenderbender with my car and have been less than honest about some of the repairs they have made.

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  Excellent German-Designed Car - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By J B Books - October 25 - 2:00 am

  The Jetta Turbo gas model performs well, has comfortable seating, excellent Monsoon sound system, great sports suspension, and rates the safest of any auto on the Consumer Reports/NHTSA crash tests: 5 star head on and 4 star side crash. The car has been reliable and is a poor mans BMW.

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  This is a risky car to own. - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JamesG - October 25 - 2:00 am

  I just sold my 09 TDI Jetta today. I will miss it, it was SO much fun to drive on the high-way. Fuel pumps (HPFP) are failing in this model, repair can cost $8 - $10K. VW is being very wissy-washy about covering what appears to be a growing issue. To much risk for me, good luck if you decide to buy.

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  jetta tdi - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By oerub - October 25 - 2:00 am

  After 10,000 miles i cant think of a more comfortable car for the money. A little more cabin noise than I expected. Now getting 43-45 mpg on the highway. Great car. Interior definitely showcases german build quality and attention to detail. Transmission is very smooth. Very happy and satisfied with it.

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  Too Young To Die - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Vector - October 23 - 10:13 am

  I purchased my Jetta in 2001, with only 17k. In the 7 years that Ive owned it, the rubber on the sides fell off, the cruise control went out, the keyless entry stopped working, the airbag light goes on and off, and worst of all the transmission is dying at 86,000 miles. The repair shop (a costly VW only shop) could not fix the cruise, the key or the airbag light. They said that I will have to get a new tranny, which would cost more than the car is worth. It takes a lot of effort for it (automatic transmission) to get up to 20 mph (gets up to 50 rpms), and it jerks into second gear. Once it gets to 60 mph, its ok but it takes a lot of work to get there. Not so much fun to drive now.

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  Happy so far! - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Bronster - October 22 - 8:50 pm

  So far, very happy. Granted, I just bought it, so take this for what it is. LOVE the torque! Like the solid/stable feel on the road. My Civic was atrocious in winter and wet conditions, hence I got rid of it. The VW already feels 100% better - winter will be the big test tho. Did I mention that I LOVE the torque?? Interior is very nice. Comfy seats. Sparse on storage cubbyholes, but I can live with that. Less reason for me to put more crap in the car that I dont need. Nice and quiet on the road. Drives very smooth. Will be too easy to get a speeding ticket if Im not careful, so I appreciate the speed warning (setting) feature! Plenty of power in this car! Great cargo space & stereo.

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  Excelent Car - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Dan - October 22 - 11:40 am

  The 2006 Volkswagn Jetta Value Edition is an excelent car for its price. It comes standard with a lot of extras and has a wonderfull triptonic transmission.

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  Mixed Bag - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Paul - October 21 - 2:55 am

  TDI has great gas mileage, good power, heavy, road hugging solid car with good storage. Radio went out and that caused a parasitic drain on the battery for some reason. New radio cost $700 plus and while I could have lived without the radio the dead radio was actually draining the battery for some reason and this is a common issue. Fuse box went out and it should not have. The throttle box went out and it should not have. Those were all costly repairs. I had two glo plugs go out but I can live with that and understand that. I love it when it runs and it parks well in an urban area. Then there is the emissions issue which is by now well known and yes I feel deceived like everyone else. I was/am hope to get 300,000 miles out of the car given it is a diesel. I have 65,000 now but I do not know how the fix will affect the car. All in all.....I should have bought a Ford or perhaps a Mazda or Subarau

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  unreliable and overpriced - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Samson13 - October 21 - 2:00 am

  Except fpr great milage, the car is cramped, especially in the back, very expensive when compared to other makes with gas engine, very expensive to maintain and mechanically unreliable. Had trounle with whell bearing, glow plugs, trunk struts, rear brakes. Oil change and filter are ridiculously expensive. Apholstery is a lint magnet. The saving in gas does not justify the extra costs in breakdown and routine maintenance.