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:
Showing 821 through 830 of 4,495.00-
awesome diesel - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
By duckman - May 3 - 10:00 amthis is the most reliable car that i have ever owned, and the funnest that i have ever driven. People are amazed when I fill up at the diesel pump( which doesnt happen often, 50 mpg). I say diesel and people think of big rigs. When its on the road people are amazed at the acceleration and pull of the little engine. I have pulled u-haul trailers with it while moving, and pulled away from other mid size sedans while running down the road. It has been ROCK solid reliable and has always been there.
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Solid for the most part, but not awesome - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
By BCgoalie - April 30 - 2:20 amI bought this car wanting a fun-to-drive compact sedan, and thats what I got. Unfortunately, there have been a few costly problems. At first, the car was in commendable condition, but some cosmetics like the glovebox, radio antenna and side molding on the doors have started to fall apart. The engine and transmission have been completely problem-free, but electronic issues with the power windows and a moody stereo system have a tendency to break. Overall though, the car has been extremely reliable, is peppy and good looking, and my next car will be another VW!
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BMW here I come - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
By BMW here I come!!! - April 28 - 7:26 pmBought this car brand new and fell in love with it, until I realized that I was going to be at the dealer every 4 or 5 months because something failed or broke.
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Great Car! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
By Nankov - April 28 - 12:56 pmI own a 2002 2.0L Jetta that currently has 98,000 km. on it. Ive had no major problems with it. The car is solid and it handles great. The base engine is actually pretty good, plus its good on gas! I love driving this car. It has nice looks too! You gotta love VWs.
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Love The Jetta - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
By Rayl224 - April 28 - 2:00 amHad one non routine problem that was covered by warranty. Some repairs are a little more costly than other cars. Burns oil. Otherwise the car is great and I love drving it.
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Excellent car, fun to drive - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
By Jennifer DeSanzo - April 28 - 2:00 amWe also had coil pack problems, on back order for 2 weeks. VW reembursed us for loss of usage for those weeks (leased car). Have not had any problems since. Absolutely love the car. A great value for the performance and options.
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GREAT CAR - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
By tmeier - April 28 - 2:00 amI bought my TDI wagon brand new and have been driving it for about a year now and am still wild about it. This is a great car, fun to drive, looks more expensive than it is and has tons of whistles & bells. Ive not had one problem with it and get lots of comments about what a great looking car it is. It has so much power you would never imagine it was a diesel and since the price of gas just keeps going higher and highter I love the unbelievable mileage. Great ride & handling & plenty of room in the hatch to carry anything I need.
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Best TDI Ever - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
By Steve - April 27 - 2:30 pmI have owned my 2009 for a week and put on about 500 miles and love it. I owned a tdi before and love it too. I bought that car in 2004. The 2009 is better car in ever way, power, more room for passenger, driver, and the trunk is just huge. The road and motor noise and so low it is just unbelievable. The sound system is the best. This year Volkswagen added a power seat for the driver along with the heated seats for both passenger and drive. If you can buy this car, buy it. I paid $27,300 as this car has dealer mark ups. I am not complaining because it is worth it.
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The best car - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
By KellysVW - April 27 - 2:20 pmI signed a lease for my Jetta Sat and I couldnt be happier. The car is so nice inside and out. The car is super fun to drive and it feels good on the road. Good power and the 5 speed is easy to use and so much fun. You have to get the 5 speed! I traded in my Blazer so this is way better on gas so far and a lot smoother on the road. The seats are comfortable and all the electronics in this car are beautiful. Great features for the price. You will love this car!!
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What happen to German engineering??? - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
By jam - April 26 - 10:00 amI love the interior & exterior design and thats the only good thing I can say about VW. I had so many problem w/ this car that Im planning to trade in. Here are some of the problems: (1) engine oil consumption (1qt/ every 1000miles) - dealer said it was normal but now VW has a special repair kit. (2) air flow meter failure (3) oxygen sensor failure (4) door lock actuator problem (5) rattle from interior (6) Catalytic converter failure.... And Im preparing myself for window regulator failure soon (it hasnt happened yet but my rear door window dropped few times). And most of all, bad treatment from dealership makes me to hate myself for buying VW.