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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  Windows - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By MC2 - September 2 - 10:00 am

  I love my Jetta i spent two years building them online, and when i finished up my senior year of high school i told my mom and dad that we were going New Car Shopping b/c i was not going to drive my POS anymore. We got my Jetta the day i graduated and a month later my drivers window broke so they fixed it. A month after that the passenger window broke we took it back but we had to drive in the pooring rain with the window down and they fixed it. That time they gave us a loaner b/c we were pissed. What we found out is that there is a plastic clip and it brakes but the replace it was a metal one. But your window has to brake first before they will fix it.

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  Jettas a winner!! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By drjhson79 - September 2 - 10:00 am

  We bought our Jetta in August 02 so we dont have any long term experience with it but the time we have had it has been great!! The quality of assembly and materials of the interior is wonderful and the exterior styling is what we were looking for. I work for an automotive supplier and could have recieved some great discounts from the "big three" but they just didnt have a car that could compete with the Jetta. The VR6 is incredible in its smoothness and power. This is the first import we have owened an at this point we are very impressed.

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  Jetta TDI - Perfect at 18,000 miles - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Brian_in_Florida - September 1 - 8:06 am

  I purchased the Jetta TDI with DSG Auto 6 speed tranny and Package 1 last Fall. After owning Japanese cars and BMWs the last 20 years, I was concerned about quality, but so far I love my TDI. The DSG tranny is superb. I drive 110 miles per day highway at 80 mph getting 42 - 44 mpg. The driving dynamics of this car are as good as my wifes BMW 330Ci. It is a n nice tight package with excellent fuel economy. I only wish the styling didnt look like a cheap Corolla.

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  My Love of Jettas - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Sunshinegirl - September 1 - 12:36 am

  I bought a 2006 Jetta Value Edition after little research. I loved everything I read about the car and was impressed with the safety ratings. I feel comfortable driving me and my little one around town. It is a very smooth ride and has a lot of power for a $20,000 car. The interior is functional and cool to look at. I dont think I will ever get bored driving this car.

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  Are you Kidding - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Gman - August 31 - 3:06 pm

  I bought this from a Lady in Kansas over the internet and she drove it to me in Colorado, delivered in pretty much perfect shape. I have over a million miles on it now and I am pretty much shocked by the other owners reviews. It was built in Mexico and has had the usual faults like electric window problems and seat heaters but that was all covered in the warranty and replace with no hassle at the dealers. On the last days of my warranty I had them replace the Turbo as easy as if it was a light bulb. Since then I have done most the work on it myself. A lot cheaper than mechanics will do. Replaced the thermostat for 15$ in thirty minutes. $200 plus at most shops.

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  Best purchase. - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jessica - August 30 - 10:03 am

  I had a Gray 06 Jetta 2.5 5-spd w/Package 1 (6 CD/MP3/Sat, leatherette, heated seats, etc.) which I purchased new. I brought it to the dealer in June for some warranty stuff (w/44k miles). As Im waiting for the verdict, I stumbled into the showroom. Of course the inevitable happened & the sales manager approached me. So, I ended up test driving a 2.5 and a 2.0T WE which I absolutely fell in love with. Got a fantastic deal, a lower APR, a fresh warranty & more. I like that Monster Mats & Gorilla Gear were included too :) Black w/Anthracite, 6spd...plus it has the features my 06 had, for less $.

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  Best car in market - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By EJ08 - August 29 - 10:00 am

  I test looked at the Corollas, Civics, Mazda3, Sonata, and the VW Jetta is the best of the bunch. The jetta is a little more $$ then the Corolla, Civic and Mazda3 but its worth it. Believe me the engines on these Jettas will go forever. Great gas mileage, nice looks and drives like a charm. Also good resale. I researched this car and its a great deal. Plus I bought it with their 0% financing promotion.

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  Keeps Going, and Going, and Going... - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By outstanding car - August 27 - 3:30 pm

  My Jetta has 143,000 miles and it is still in perfect condition. It is a 2.0 with a manual transmission. I have used it mostly for highway driving. I just replaced the water pump (and the thermostat) and timing belt (since it was already off), and recently replaced the catalytic converter. But prior to these repairs the only other repair that I had to make that was not covered by VW was the oxygen sensor and it was cheap ($130). I had all the recommended maintenance done on schedule (belts, plugs and wires, brakes, fluids, etc.) and it paid off! Ive spent only $850 in repairs. The rest is maintenance. I just gassed up and I got 35 mpg last tank. Treat your Jetta right and it will treat you right.

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  Buy one you WONT regret it! - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Driver Hired! - August 26 - 12:03 pm

  Well I originally wanted to purchase a two year old Audi A4. It would be in the price range I was looking for. I came across the Jetta and actually thought it was the Audi. Doing some homework on the Jetta revealed that it has one of the highest safety ratings, is a cousin of the A4 and is an overall excellent value. The Jettas prior to 2008 were more expensive and was not crazy about the wheels and tail lamps. 2008 VW changed them and lowered the price. I now own my Jetta and get compliments everywhere I go!! The car has almost every option I could need and it only cost me $20,500. every car in its class doesnt even come close to the Jetta in Value. AND its German..

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  Its a Yugo with an Audi powertrain - 2015 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mollari 2261 - August 25 - 8:46 pm

  Im a 30-year VW-Audi fan that this time around needed to go cheap, but without leaving VW. I also wanted a TDI to match my mostly highway commute/driving. It was easy to get a deal on the Jetta, considering how much theyre piling up on the dealership lots; now I know why. This is the cheapest, dullest car Ive owned since my mid-90s GM ticket to a taxpayer bailout. Its a slick powertrain wrapped in bland styling, numb driving, slow-torture seating, missing creature comforts (we dont even get rear-passenger door lock switches), all riding on Flintstone wheels. Not to mention a real low point in VW quality (e.g. carpets that are cardboard sprayed with hair-in-a-can) and quality control (e.g. embarrassingly poor body panel alignment). Granted, some of this has to do with the fact that my car is a lowly SE and not an SEL trim. For example, the halogen reflectors are like two candles up there, compared to HIDs. And the Yugo GVL called, wanting its instrument cluster back. But much of it rings true across all Mk-VI Jettas; this is the worst VW since the Westmoreland, PA Rabbits of the 1980s. The Jetta is basically the cheapest way to get VWs fantastic powertrains. But you get what you pay for... And next time Im paying more for a Golf, which is more like what us VW owners expect from a VW, and not this sad, sorry exercise in cost-cutting.