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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  piece of #!*! - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mac Man - July 14 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my jetta used, stupid me! First off the O2 sensor went out, then the fuel latch wont latch anymore, the cruise only works 1/3 of the time, yellow goo leaks out the bottom of the doors in summer, then finally the biggst of all problems the transmission failed at 58500 miles. BIGGEST mistake Ive ever made. Consider something else before you make the mistake I made.

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  Mexico+Tequilla=1.8T - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By crabbykaiser - July 14 - 2:00 am

  The engine, suspension and transmission have been excellent. The brakes as well as the fit and finish have been a constant source of aggrevation. Although properly cared for the supposed quality BBS rims have been CRAP! Rattles in the speaker area, faulty rotors and rims that pit/clear coat failure make me a rather proturbed owner. After ditching a 99 Beetle for similar reasons, this one will follow shortly. My days with Volkswagen have come to an end.

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  What everyone should own... - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By wittyj - July 13 - 1:46 pm

  Have put 37000+ flawless mile on the vehicle. Not one problem. Been to the dealer three times for free oil change and service. Always get 42 to 44 per tank with individual drives of over 50mpg. Seats are very comfortable, ergonomics are first rate. Vehicle is very easy to live with on a day to day basis. Did not get nav system, GARMIN is much less expensive.

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  Jetta Review - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jill Carter - July 12 - 10:00 am

  I enjoy driving my Jetta. The gas mileage is great, and the car is fun. The downside is the very small backseat and the super slow pickup.

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  TDI Jetta Wagon - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Ferreira - July 12 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE my TDI wagon! It is zippy and gets 50 mpg. I have never had a mechanical problem with it. We use biodiesel fuel and reduce our emissions considerably, making it an environmentally sound choice. I feel very safe driving it with the extra airbags and safety features. Would buy it again in an instant and intend to keep it for years to come.

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  Why isnt it included in more reviews? - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Martie - July 12 - 9:16 am

  My Jetta-TDI is just the best thing Ive bought in a long time. It runs smooth, quiet and gets 41+ mpg. Yet, I seldom read about it in the evaluations of valuable cars. They are missing the mark.

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  Piece of junk - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Eric - July 11 - 10:36 am

  I bought this car new in 2002 since day one it was an electrical nightmare. Air cond. stopped working first year. It took a month for the dealer to fix. It took 7 trips to the dealer and me figuring that there was a short in the telescopic steering wheel. Besides the at least 50 or so times this car has been in the shop, the best is when the timing belt snapped while backing out of a parking spot ended up costing me $3500 because it has an interference engine where all the valves get bent requiring head to be redone. There was a bulletin stating there was a problem with antifreeze leaking down the wiring harness, of course this happened to my car. Do not buy this car!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  Great Gas MPG, Great Car - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By TDI Lover - July 11 - 4:36 am

  Great car, a bit more refined compared to the last few years. The 1.9l with the 6 speed auto works great together. Averaging over 40mpg so far. I have had it 14 days and and over 2000 miles on it so far. Cant go wrong.

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  Ill never BUY a VW again! - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mitch - July 10 - 7:56 am

  After 6 mnts of owning the car it was in the shop weekly.There was some kind of light that prevented me from taking my car out of park!what!?Then for no reason the back seat belt tightened up to the point that it would not move, it was so tight that it was ruining the leather in the car.Then I was told I needed new spark plugs and a spark plug wire set,it was $13 per spark plug and the wire set was $350!Total it was about $500 for a simple fix! Then my coil pack went bad which was $600 plus they told me that my coil pack ruined my plugs and wires again,(happened about a week after i already replaced the plugs and wires). I dumped that car at a dealership and will never own a German car again!

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  Very impressed - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mike A. - July 9 - 9:03 pm

  Having only ever owned Honda Accords and Civics, I decided to take a chance on an attractively priced new 2016 Jetta Sport 1.8t automatic with Lighting Package. I really love driving this car. Its smooth and refined. The 1.8t has nice power delivery and the automatic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly. Style wise the Jetta is understated and more mature looking than other cars in its class. There are a good amount of hard plastics used in the interior, however the fit and finish is superb, and the overall look is upscale and classy. Very Audi-esque. The interior also delivers where it counts with a very nice leather wrapped steering wheel, amazingly comfortable and good looking two toned leatherette seats, and a nice infotainment system. You can tell the engineers put a lot of thought into driver enjoyment. Little niceties include a fully adjustable arm rest, quality leather around the shifter, factory all weather floor mats, one touch window up/down switches, extremely comfortable front and rear seats, auto opening trunk, and xenon headlights that turn while steering. The car is also smoother, quieter, and noticeably quicker than my Civic. All this for less than $18,000! The only negatives worth mentioning are that the audio system needs a lot of tweaking just to sound decent, and the piano black trim on the interior scratches very easily. Again, great car for the $$.