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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  Dont Buy a VW, Too Many Problems - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Fabby - March 14 - 8:46 am

  This car is a headache. There is always some kind of electrical problem going on. It burns oil at about 1 quart per 3000 miles. Terrible car, highly do not recommend it.

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  Great Car, but unfortunate - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By VWkid - March 12 - 9:00 am

  I have owned this car for less than a month and it is fantastic. It drives well, looks great, and has tons of extras, all for a low price, now and when it was new. I love the car.

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  Sport Sleeper - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By New Dad - March 11 - 10:00 am

  So, my wife has never owned anything but a VW. When her 88 Fox GL wagon finally went over the hill, we bought this car, and we love it. The Trek edition is beautiful with the flat 5-spoke 14" rims and the rear deck lid spoiler. Keep wax on it and the Fiesta Red will shine forever. The 2.0L SOHC 8V engine is fantastic. Dont let the uninspiring 115hp fool you. Its the 122lb/ft of torque that makes this car fly. You want a 5-speed. Throw on some Koni adjustable shocks/struts and youve got a European sports sedan.

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  Fun to drive GLX vr6 - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ssvk - March 9 - 10:00 am

  From the time i have owned this car, i have enjoyed driving it. It begs you to drive, push harder on the corners, it handles great. The engine is very peppy and responsive. All in all, its a very fun car, no major problems.

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  So far, so good! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By vwdoc - March 9 - 10:00 am

  just got this a week ago, and absolutely loving it. previous owner of a 1992 saab. i just feel gorgeous driving it! my complaints? the cupholder is right above the radio, which freaks me out. theres not enough storage room in the front/sides...frustrating. cant see behind my right shoulder -- big blind spot, headrest for driver is awkward?, car dosnt "roll" automatically on "D" (i think this is a safety feature, but i just need to get used to it), the cloth interior looks like itll be tough to clean.

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  Wow! What a ride! - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By wolfsburg - March 8 - 1:10 am

  Wow what a ride is right. I traded in my 05 f-350 because of fuel reasons loved the truck but loving the v-dub more and more each day. Needs to get a little better mileage getting 24-25, better than my truck. Great outside and inside too. Love the leather like the radio like the trunk and all the special stuff over all the car is great better than I would have thought need to put a hitch on it and roof racks would help. Still need to move dirt bikes around. Great job VW keep up the good work.

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  BAD LUCK - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JLD2004 - March 6 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE HAD 2 JETTAS A 1999 AND A 2002. THE FIRST ONE I BOUGHT WAS USED WHEN I BROUGHT IT HOME I NOTICED A CRACKED WINDSHIELD THEN EVERY OTHER MONTH MY CAR WAS IN THE DEALERSHIP FOR THE OXYGEN CENSORS. IT WAS ONCE IN THE DEALERSHIP FOR 2 MONTHS. THE SECOND CAR I BOUGHT WAS NEW AND IT WAS OK BUT THE VOLKSWAGEN CREDIT BANK WAS HORRIBLE TO ME.THEY DIDNT CARE ABOUT ANYTHING EXCEPT MY MONTHLY PAYMENT. THEY HARRESSED ME REPEATLY NO MATTER WHAT THE SITUATION.I WOULDNT RECOMMEND THIS CAR TO MY WORST ENEMY. VOLKSWAGENS ARE NOTHING BUT HEADACHES.

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  My Betty... - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Bearcat - March 6 - 10:00 am

  This car is unreal... for a first car out of college this thing kills... Everyone is always checking out the 18" BBS and the Z rated rubber thinking is that thing as fast as it looks... and yeah it can be... just got to keep the turbo spinning. I drove the VR6 model and wondered why anyone would buy that one... the 1.8T has better handleing and does not dive in the switchbacks or under hard braking which can get pretty hard with those HUGE front disks... By the way the 6 speed manual is flawless and most likely bulletproof like most other VW tranies.

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  Gotta Love It!!!! - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By CorradoG60 - March 5 - 11:50 pm

  I have had my Wolfs since Aug. 01 and I love every second behind the wheel. This is my third VW (90 Corrado G60, 95 Jetta), gotta love that German Engineering (No one does it better). The handling is excellent and the seats hug you in the turns. There are not enough good things that can be said about the 1.8T other than, "I wish it came in a 6cyl. Turbo."

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  Great for everyday use! - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By DANIEL - March 5 - 10:20 am

  I picked this car up for cheap, reason why its a 2.0 and not the infamous 1.8t or vr6. Stock the engine is just enough for A to B driving. Great for a working car or long trips thanks to its decent milage per gallon. If you looking for performance you should look at the 2.0 unless your into engine tuning and are willing to spend another 2,500 to supercharge or turbo the engine.