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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  Great Car! - 2017 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Tom - April 25 - 5:27 pm

  The Jetta S reminds me of my first car, VW Rabbit. Basic car, basic technology, but a hell of a lot of fun to drive.

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  My Jetta GLX - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ssmith - April 25 - 3:06 am

  The car has been a pleasure to drive. The front seats are very confortable. The instrament lighting and the stereo rocks!

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  The car of the future - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By W. Bass - April 23 - 2:33 pm

  Peppy in town. Fast, good at highway speeds. Comfortable ride. Responsive steering and brakes. The 5sp manual is a joy--as smooth as an automatic.

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  One of the best cars to own! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Raynmann - April 21 - 3:53 am

  This car is the second of my 2 volkswagen Jetta TDI wagons. I have had no problems with this car so far and expect none. This car comes with a 12 year no rust through guarantee. In MN that is huge!! It means no need to buy another vehicle due to having a rust bucket. The diesel engine will run at least 10 years at the annual mileage before having significant maintenance. VW is approving the use of Biodiesel in their engines, so I can have a more environment friendly automobile.

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  Problems with Jetta - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By S. Adams - April 17 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this car thinking I wouldnt have a lot of repairs. Numerous problems have occurred: oxygen sensor replaced 3 times, driver visor replaced, cup holder replaced(2) passenger seat spring replaced, catalytic converter replaced, air conditioner compressor replaced, 1 keyless remote doesnt work, rust in trunk, engine light on 4 times, batteries (2), mass air flow meter replaced, wires replaced, throttle body replaced, timing belt, V-belt, 2 tensioners replaced, car jerks when changing gears (dealer cant explain), ticking noise under hood (dealer cant explain); not to mention regular maintenance. I will never purchase another VW vehicle.

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  Great Alternative to a Hybrid - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By newvwowner - April 17 - 7:26 am

  Fun to drive! The fuel economy is much better than the EPA estimates. So far I am averaging 37+mpg in my daily commute (70%city, 30%highway) and when I go strictly highway Im averaging 46mpg. And the amazing thing is that it should improve as the engine breaks continues to break in (have 4500 miles so far). Glad I picked this over a hybrid -- much more power and the trunk size is unbelievable! The Jetta is comfortable during my day-to-day commute and also during road trips. It easily fits four 6-footers with no performance lag. The engine noise is even less than my friends 08 Passat 2.0T and no one can believe that its a diesel until they look at the badging.

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  Awesome Car for My Son - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By RVoit - April 15 - 9:36 am

  I bought this Jetta two years ago from my local dealer, as a third car for my teenage boys to drive. Its a stick, with few options, but was in good condition. Weve had virtually no problems with it and its turned out to be a tough car, too. It provides superb basic transportation. Its fun for the boys to drive, but not too flashy either. We maintain this car and plan on keeping this Jetta for a long time.

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  What a Hunk of Junk - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Unhappy Customer - April 13 - 10:10 am

  I made the mistake of trading in my 1994 Honda Civic for a brand new Jetta, suckered by the "sign and drive" lease promotion. I assumed I was purchasing a new-- therefore safer and more reliable-- vehicle. My old Honda had hit 200k miles and never had problems, but I didnt want to risk it. My "new" Jetta has less than 2,000 miles on it, and I have already had to bring it in for service 3 times. Ill be making a 4th visit tomorrow. The "check engine light" keeps coming on! I keep getting faulty parts replaced, and yet the light continues to pop up, alerting me of new problems. You know you bought a lemon when even the service department admits that the old civics was a better automobile.

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  Wish I had done more research - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By unhappyVWowner - April 12 - 2:46 am

  I wish that I had done more investigating when buying my car. I bought my car with less that 5k miles on it, and in the 4 years Ive owned it, I have had the same problems as everyone else. I had to replace the Mass Air Flow sensor; the sensor in my driver side door failed, causing the car to always think it was open; the glove box drawer is broken; and now the driver and passenger power windows are dying. It took $1000 to figure out the MAF sensor, and I became a regular at the car shop. VW has yet to acknowledge any of these issues. I hope to sell it (be rid of it) before anything else dies. This is just a poor quality car.

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  German engineering - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jg - April 9 - 10:43 pm

  The car has been very good in most respects with the one great exception. The electrical system is atrocious. One problem after another with many of the plugs and connectors burning off. Lights interior and exterior which sometimes work sometimes not. Also,nearly every visit to the dealer for repairs ends in a $700 to $1000 bill. NO more farfagnugan for us.