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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  Still great - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Noel - March 23 - 3:16 pm

  We have exceeded 16K Miles in less than a year so the engine is till in break in mode, as you may know diesel engines are made of much harder metal in relation to a gasoline engines. Returned from a trip to the Bay Area over the weekend. By the way this is the wifes car i only get to enjoy it on weekends or long trips as i get the behind the wheel assignment. The car feels strong and solid as the day we brought it home, driving a manual on hilly San Francisco can be a bit intimidating but not in this car as engine and tranny are well calibrated, in fact our kid did comment that it was better than the amusement park rides.

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  2006 VW Jetta TDI hits the Sweet Spot - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By bcpjetta06tdi - March 23 - 10:10 am

  I have had my 2006 VW Jetta TDI for about three weeks now and absolutely love it. My dealer was very knowledgeable, but the VW standard for service is clearly not as high as that of other dealers. For example, my car arrived with only one working key, and it was a valet key. I had to wait a week for new keys, and the dealer kept my car for three days to program the keys when they arrived. But I had a loaner just like my car so I did not care. If you want a VW, you have to be willing to accept a lower standard of service. It comes with the territory. However, the car itself is outstanding. Its too soon to know about its reliability, but in all other regards, it is an absolute beauty.

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  My Jetta - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Betina James - March 23 - 2:00 am

  Overall I enjoy the car, in a market that seems to be geared towards SUVs. The car is fun too drive and performs great. The only thing about the car that I dont like is that it doesnt have a spoiler. But thats just me. It gets excellent gas mileage, and handles well around corners. And even though I just got the 4 its got some fight in it out of the pocket.

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  Good car with great space. - 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ecwhite - March 16 - 9:22 pm

  This is a big car for its class but needs the 2.5 litre to make it work. The 5 speed manual transmission seems too tall in an attempt to gain fuel mileage. An extra gear in the manual gear box is needed to bring some life to it. The space is off the charts compared to any competitor which is a big asset when you have a family to fit in the back seat and luggage in the trunk. The Civic and Elantra might win the "fun" category but the space, quiet ride and solid road performance in weather trump the fun factor for me. It is not a TDI (my previous car was a 05 Jetta TDI before the moose destroyed it) and if you can afford it, go with the TDI. The TDI is a Santa bag of fun with crazy torque!

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  Forget about Japanese cars, get a GLI ! - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By z3r0c00l - March 16 - 1:46 pm

  6 months ago, I was searching for a new car and thinking to get a Honda Civic SI, Nissan Altima 3.5L OR a Toyota Camry V6. However, I saw someone drove a new GLI and amazed with how beautiful the car was. I owned a VW Golf 2.0L and it was an OK car for me, not too impressed by it. Then, I decided to test drive a GLI and fell in love right away! Forget about those Japanese cars which are built by old grandma non-virgin metal! Thats why they are cheap! Get a real car under $30,000, complete w/ Package 2 GLI and youll never regret it. The car is superb, comes with high quality interior, sweet looking exterior and excellent performance. I dont like it, I love it!

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  DONT BUY THIS CAR - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Charles Clingman - March 16 - 2:00 am

  This 2001 Jetta GLS VR6 has been a nightmare since it was purchased new. Repair costs are 3 times US made car. Car has had repeated problems like 5 electric window motor problems. The dealer had the car for a total of 6 weeks trying to diagnose and repair a problem, and finally had to bring in a factory rep to repair. That repair was over $1500.00! Car has locked up in Park twice requiring a tow to dealer. It has had numerous problems of rapid acceleration while sitting idle. A major safety hazard. Car is made in Mexico so that should tell one to stay clear of this headache. If you buy one of these VW Jettas you may die in it!

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  great on gas - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By kirkyowe - March 16 - 2:00 am

  what a fun car to drive. it certainly helps that it gets on a bad week 50 mpg.. cant beat that ..

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  Sporty, Stylish and Affordable - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By chlin - March 16 - 2:00 am

  Before buying this 2004 Jetta, I had test-driven many (several hrs to days w/ each): Corolla, Optima, Altima, RAV4, Protege 5. Jetta beats them all for its superb handling & stability. The turbo is much more responsive than the 2.0L. Speed goes up steadily yet surprising fast even at low RPMs. Agile - how Id describe the feel when making a harsh turn or stop. The auto. shift might feel slow to some. Built-in spoiler wins accolades from friends. Speaking of looks, you dont get any from Japanese cars unless you pay extra $ for a Lexus. But Jetta is a nice little car (in fact, roomier than many would think) with everything I could ask for.

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  Very nice job! - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By pfja0101 - March 15 - 2:36 pm

  Completely happy with this car. Performance is top notch. Finding features every week that I didnt know I had. Styling is one of the best I have seen from VW in a while. The 18" BBS rims and Audi TT brake kit painted red is incredible for the view. The body kit is also wicked. And those seats...WOW! The car loves and hugs you as much as you love it!

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  YUCK!!!! - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Xtremelydissapointed - March 15 - 10:00 am

  Driving it out of the dealership was a very happy day...until the car started giving problems at about 26K miles. How convenient, right after the warranty expired. What problems? Window regulators (same window, twice within 5 months of 1st repair), back brakes, bad fuel tank, engine light turning on and off...Need I say more? Now the happiest day of my life will be the day I get rid of that pretty tin garbage can.