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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  Driving a dumpster - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By shastanova - November 26 - 9:39 am

  I love the way this car drives but its a piece of junk. Interior must be made from recycled bottles cause everything breaks. Armrest, glove box, cigarette tray, overhead light switch, control for sideview mirrors, window motor, headliner, doorliner, speakers and more. Outside falls apart also, side markers have water in them. headlights are foggy. paint job is crap. Grille vents fall out. Antennae rusted and fell apart. Engine is only good thing. Everything else sucks. Had to put in new turbo$2500, 2 timing belts $1450, fix A/C $750, Pvc valve and intake $700, Glow plug relay $300, Window motor& regulator $750. Drive it of a cliff before you spend all this money. all this before 130,000

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  Not Sure If Ill Get Another V-Dub - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Ed - November 25 - 7:46 am

  First VW to own. 2006 manual GLI package w/leather, XM radio. Fun car to drive but already had problems with it and had it a year. Had 2 months before it started overheating - coolant hose connection problem that kept the fan running after I turned the ignition off, which was depleting the battery. Five months later, another problem with a hose that was making some heavy noise from the engine. Both were fixed by the dealer. Now all of the buttons are starting to peel off (plastic/rubber finish)!? Went to the dealer, have to come back when someone could pull out the radio, find the manufacturer, and order new radio. Dealer oil changes too $$. Took to private shop, told it was burning oil like crazy!

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  Jetta The best car ever!...and safe too! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jessica Lauderdale - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I have a 99 Jetta and I tell ya, I refuse to buy another car. Im selling my car right now and Im upgradeing to a 2004 Jetta. I got in a car accent about a year ago. I was in my jetta and I stopped for a red light when a man in a BMW hit me from behind going 40 mph. The accent did do some damage to my car but I tell ya, It should have been a lot worse. My bumper absorbed all the accent and I didnt get hurt at all. I do have to admit, the BMW looked like it hit a tree. It did not crash well. I was not the least bit impressed. I highly recomend a jetta to anyone. I recomend a jetta to anyone who is looking for a new car.

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  Great car! - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Joe - November 21 - 1:03 am

  The most bang for your buck of any car on the market. I have the 2008 Wolfsburg, 2.0T and Im getting an AVERAGE of 29.5 MPG over the least 10 - 15 tanks. Ive never had one under 27 and my last tank was 31. I also think it has a perfectly tuned transmission - I never feel like I need to be in manual mode. Bottom line: great car.

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  League of its own - 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  By dc_volks_fan - November 20 - 11:19 am

  I believe that anyone who compares the features, size, interior space and gas mileage of this car against anything in its class they must reach the same conclusion as I did - this car is a great value. I have never owned a Volkswagen and was immediately impressed by the build quality and study feel it presents while driving and yet - great handling grace when the occasion called for it. If you are considering a Civic, Accord, Camry, Fusion, Hyundai anything, please consider the Jetta TDI and judge for yourself!

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  Good looks, VERY poor vehicle... - 1997 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Lino - November 20 - 10:00 am

  Former G.M. engineer - I have owned Oldsmobile, Saturn, VW & BMW 325Ci. VR6 is marvelous. Fit & finish: initially appears exceptional for price range. HOWEVER, I will NEVER buy another VW. Overall reliability & long-term quality is ABSOLUTELY HORRENDOUS; interior parts are cheap & break FREQUENTLY. Check engine light came on at ~50,000 miles & STAYED ON until I sold it at 70,000 miles. VW could not correct problems and told me, "thats just the way these engines are". I have PERSONAL knowledge of other VWs (GLS & GLXs from 1996 THRU 2001 & 2002 VW Beetle) that have had THE EXACT SAME PROBLEMS. CHECK JDPowers surveys as well as NHTSA recall/TSB boards before buying ANYTHING from VW.

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  Lively but an extra $5k gets a 325ci - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Swiz - November 20 - 10:00 am

  Great, sporty, practical car. I have a black/black leather 5spd and I must say it looks sharp. The woodgrain interior moldings and blue tachs make you feel your in a much more expensive auto. This car is quick but I find that the front wheel drive offers too much torque steer. There are times when I have to fight to keep the car in straight line. Ive driven it 27k in less than a year w/o a single problem. I bought this because I didnt have the money for a BMW at the time. Even thought it is a great riding car I wish I would have waited because the BMW offers so much more performance-wise over the VW.

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  Problem Child - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mike1PKT - November 20 - 10:00 am

  I bought my nightmare in 1/99 went the new jettas first came out. Ive had nothing of problems since. The car burns oil. I took a trip from Cleveland to Flordia and back. When I returned I checked my dip stick and it was bone dry. My air sensor has gone bad three times now. I cant understand why VW has such beautiful design, but the build quality is terrible. I think the quality issue is a result of the vehicle being built in Mexico. If you want a VW get the passat. ITS BUILT IN GERMANY.

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  awsome, fun, ecomonical - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Leard Huggins - November 19 - 7:30 pm

  We bought it to replace my wifes 1999 Olds Cutlass with 51,000 miles bought new from the same dealer 10 years go. We compared it to the Prius and the VW SportWagonTDI won. We just finished our 1st long trip (800 miles) in it and are totally satisfied. Keep in mind my car is a 2004 GMC Denali all wheel drive and loaded. I am 67" tall and 280 lbs the VW has plenty of room. It has as much head room as my Denali. We averaged 33.6 MPG calculated from gas tickets after driving 80-90 mph on Interstate and 4o-60 MPH on two lane roads from Savannah to Apacatchacola. It is not even broken in yet and the mpg is impressive.

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  Fun-but noisy - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Knickerbocker - November 16 - 2:00 am

  I live in a big city where small parking spots and tight turning radious are at a premium. The car never lacks for power and can do circles around all of the 8 cylinder taxis, as well as easily cruising at 80 MPH on the interstates. The short wheel base base makes the car very responsive, but it does cause you to rock forward and backward a little-but that is the same with any small car. One mechanical problem with the air sensor, but VW just the warranty and is paying even though I repared it two years ago. Negatives: serious wind noise and some interior parts (rear ashtry, rear cup holder, front-passenger door handle, wood grain) have jamed, cracked or just broke.