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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  2006 Volkswagen Jetta TDI 5-speed PK2 - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By MPGeez! - June 15 - 7:13 am

  First, Im disappointed VW removed most of the convenience features found on the 2005.5 Jettas. The car is reasonably fun to drive and handles better than my former car (03 Maxima SE). Its not a speedster and performs about the same as my last Jetta (85 GL gasser). Oddly enough from the inside it sounds a bit like my old 66 Bug. This is a decent mid-level commuter car with European demeanor. Im getting 45 mpg with a 5-speed. Its a Volkswagen through and through. Theres minimal clatter, smoke and diesel odor, but the car does require a bit more user maintenance and attention than a 4-cyl. gasser: special oil, diesel additives, driving habits, etc. Its really a mileage geeks car.

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  Drives Great...When Not in the Shop - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By tony - June 15 - 3:30 am

  I like the way this car drives, but even though the engine works fine, everything else is breaking. My car has a cracked sunroof frame, problems with its door locks, and water is leaking into it, etc... My car has had more waranty work done on it than all my other cars combined, after only three years (I bought it new). I am ready to get rid of it before the waranty expires.

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  Nice, thanks for but somewhat expensive. - 2017 Volkswagen Jetta
  By John Keck - June 14 - 11:29 pm

  The Jetta GLI is a fairy sporty sedan. Its not the most economical of the Jetta trim levels, but offers great acceleration, braking, and handling. The interior is nice with a good infotainment system, parking assistance and blind spot monitoring. I havent had the car long enough to comment on reliability.

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  TDI is a great engine - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By DD - June 14 - 7:50 pm

  Ive now had the Jetta wagon with the diesel engine for about two months. Assuming it lasts (the engine assuredly will, time will tell about the rest of the car)it is a wonderful car. Comfortable, road-friendly, intelligently designed (they even have a sunglasses holder), this is a great car. And, Im getting 40 mpg. It loves to cruise at 80 mph. Great car.

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  Joyces TDI - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jross - June 14 - 6:26 pm

  Traded in a 2001 Jetta VRX with 5- speed manual and VR6 engine. A decent - well equipped car with excellent reliability history. The new TDI is a MUCH nicer car; significantly better ride and handling. Zero problems at 8500 miles. Excellent fuel economy - not unusual to see 38mpg in the city.

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  Love my Jetta - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Anthony - June 14 - 4:21 pm

  I bought my 16 Jetta TSI about 6 weeks, and 2,000 Miles ago (I do love driving it.) You may ask, why didnt I rate it 100% in everything? Heres why: -Shifting: clutch feels very springy to me, drive by wire accelerator is hard to get used to, constantly over revving during shifts. -Getting in/out: Transitioning from a pick up truck, Im just not used to it yet. -Instrumentation: I could use a voltmeter. -Outward visibility: Horrible blind spot around the rear quarter panel/ C Pillar -Fuel economy: youre going to get good milage (30-35MPG Average) but as with any turbo charged gas engine, you want to put 91-93 octane in, it runs so much smoother. you can expect to spend about the same if youre transitioning from a 3.6 liter V6 engine (or similar) like myself. WHY I STILL LOVE IT -Fun to drive (I defiantly recommend the 1.8T) -sporty, modern AND luxurious (amazing seats, for any average sized guy like myself. There are so many seat adjustments though, Ill bet almost everybody would be able to get comfortable) -still affordable

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  Be Careful! - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ouch - June 14 - 10:00 am

  I would take a moment beore buying a Volkwagen Jetta. It looks great from the outside and it is even fun to drive for the first few miles, but then it all starts to fall apart. First, the little things started to go. The cupholder is a joke, rain comes through the window cracks like a bad umbrella (which they still cant fix), and I dont even want to talk about the ooze that comes out the side of the car. The second year was even worse. I replaced three sensors, a water pump, a window, a head gasket...... This car is now worth more than a Mercedes

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  Great car - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By cptrguru - June 14 - 10:00 am

  Ive been VERY pleased with my Jetta. Worst gas mileage to date is 42 mpg and have had as high as 53 on the highway. I filled up before I left in Kansas City and had a little over 1/4 tank left by the time I hit Dallas, doing 80+ the whole way. Diesel engine suggests changing the 100% synthetic oil ever 10,000 miles, which saves a few bucks. Ive put 32,500 miles on since I bought it and the only problem Ive had is the radios ground cable needing replaced (which the dealership did at no cost and provided a courtesy car). Interior is fantastic and standard features are far better than comparative cars for the price. Poor- manÂ’s BMW!

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  Love that diesel - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Brian & Candace - June 14 - 10:00 am

  Have only had the car for a couple of weeks, but really like the ride and handling of it. For someone who grew up on a farm and has been around diesel powered vehicals for a while the sound of the turbo winding up from a stop light is pure music.

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  Check out your dealer first - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mike - June 14 - 6:00 am

  This is my first vw and its hard to say if it will be my last.The car seems to drive well and the seats are just Ok for comfort. The iPod connection is supposed to control and charge the iPod as per the salesman. Well, this connection only works on the the old ipods. Funny this is a new car and it works on all equipment. The dealer will do nothing even though they lied to me about its equipment. After I purchased the car they spent about 5 minutes explaining everything. After returning home I noticed a scatch on the dashboard. I then called the manager of OBrien autogroup and he said I should have noticed it before I signed on the dotted line. In other words you are out of luck.