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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  Vw 2014 jetta - 2014 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Rania mikhail - November 4 - 1:53 am

  I bought it brand new it has 12000 miles now start leaking after 2000 miles and has electronic problems not recommend to any person pooring car

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  75K needs new timing belt - 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Lawrence - October 18 - 5:09 am

  Be careful when looking at this car or you will end up like me. I bought this car new for the very reason I was looking for a car that can hold up to high mileage. Well what a mistake I made. The car has 75K miles on it now and the dealer says the timing chain is stretched and needs to be replaced. The dealer could not give me a reason why this happened. They did say that some screen came loose and jammed into the tension pulley of the timing chain and deprived it of oil. They told me that they have had others in with the same problem. The extended warranty people are fighting paying for the repair. The dealer could not give me a reason why this happened The repair is $2900. Not at all what I expected from a VW. It is sad that they do not back their cars. No reason for this to have happen

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  Ill never buy another VW. - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By DavidPA - September 4 - 11:33 am

  I dont have time to list all of the problems Ive had with this car. The worst was the "transmission blew up from the inside". I enjoy driving it when it isnt in the shop, but the hassle of constant problems greatly reduces the experience. I know others who have had similar experiences, and it is clear that VW has written off a generation of Jetta owners. Their national and local customer service has been awful. After a major breakdown I limped to a local dealer who refused to even look at the car for 3 weeks. I called another dealer, but he hung up on me. The VW America customer service was horrible.

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  Um, no. Just no. - 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ZH - August 24 - 12:34 pm

  I wanted to own a European car. Well that was a huge mistake and I only had the car for a little over a year. The car was too cramped and it was just a boring car all around. Too many electrical problems. I had to constantly change the headlights and rewire fuses. The car was crappy in the snow and rain. I was under the impression that the car was suppose to get decent gas mileage, but it was crap compared to my Supra. If people want a reliable car, do NOT get European cars. Stick to the Japanese cars for reliability, comfort, technology, and safety.

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  Do not buy!!! Please read - 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jay - April 27 - 3:40 pm

  Ok you may think German but check the sticker, it is assembled in MEXICO.problem #1..ok so i didnt see that till after i bought the car...learn from my mistake please! i had the worst experience with my Jetta GLS 2.0 and just because the style changed doesnt mean the mechanics and reliabilty have! Hope you dont plan on putting anyone in the back because there is nooo room and the ride is very uncomfortable.i have spent many 8 hour trips in the car it stunk!...it has been in the shop more times than i remember. had an oil consumption problem (1-1.5 qts. between oil changes 3,000miles) i was told it was normal by multiple VW dealers. water pump @ 60,000 catalytic converter went. etc. ran out

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  Worst Car weve ever had! Avoid it like the plague - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By jettatdigreen - March 14 - 7:18 am

  We were excited to get a TDI. Diesel engines are supposed to last a long time. We were told by the salesperson "this is a 400,000 mile engine." Maintenance is horrible and costs an arm and a leg. At five years and 83,000 miles the well known cam shaft and lifters failure occurred costing us $4000 to repair. Even though its a well known problem VW of America said "there are no recalls on it and youre out of warranty." Less than 2000 miles after the they replaced half the engine it died again and they say "oh the turbo is dead" and it has nothing to do with the last repair - that will be $3000. Just to get it working enough to trade it in has cost us 2/3 of what the car is worth.

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  Volkswagen selling defect cars and refuse to fix - 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Mariana - February 6 - 12:34 pm

  Volkswagen rips off consumers, they refuse fixing new cars in worranty and refuse replacement. Car has been in service 4 times and no one did anything to fix it , they only claim they fix it, in the other hand warranty refuse to cover anything even if the car its still in warranty only 6 months old 10k mil. Stay away , Volkswagen its a rip off and they also discriminate woman, everyone should know about this before buying a car from them.

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  DO NOT BUY ANY VW - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Another Unhappy - January 15 - 2:00 am

  I have had nothing but problems with this car. Performance problems, it drives very rough, a host of rattles, driver seat that makes a popping noise, stearing wheel sqweeks. To make matters worse, the vehical has been in the shop six times in less than a year of ownership. The customer service by two VW dealers and VW of America corporate has been very poor. The cars value has depreciated over $10,000 in less than a year. The list goes on...

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  It is my 3-d vw , so - do not buy VW - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By 3vw - January 10 - 10:00 am

  It is my 3-d VW. It means I like VW style and I loved their quality. Not any more. The quality became worst and service is a nightmare. I had an experience with 4 dealerships in CT. The same problem with service and the worst part is when I call VW of Noth America for help - they told me that they cannot help me and they have NO CONTROL of their dealers at all! Result of tryin to have a service at Valenti Motors, CT : in a two weeks small problem with my radio was not fixed plus complete disrespect of my personal time and VW image.

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  the modern Yugo - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Jantar - October 28 - 2:00 am

  I dont know VW can get away with selling this piece of junk to people and still laugh in people faces when they turn to them for help. Sad part is that there are still new people buying this junk...Numerous problems with mine: windows, check engine light seems to live its own life, engine stalling, finally pieces falling off. Worst car Ive ever owned.