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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  Beware! - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By shallquist - December 27 - 6:28 am

  This review is for the 2009, but based on my research affects all TDI models. All TDIs have a High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) and they are prone to failure when the diesel fuel gets contaminated. My Diesel somehow got water in the diesel and apparently based on the rust in the tank this had been an on going problem. At 107000 miles the fuel system had to be replaced to the tune of $5,800 dollars. Apparently diesel fuel standards in the US are lower than that of Europe and VW hasnt taken that into consideration. Please CONSIDER this when purchasing.

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  Problems - 2000 Volkswagen Jetta
  By JETWHITE727 - December 15 - 2:00 am

  This is my first VW and to be honest it will be my last. I have had no major problems with the car , however a number of minor issues. I think anyone who is looking to buy VW should look around before buying.

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  Jetta, not living up to long term rep - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Lizzie - December 12 - 3:16 pm

  I had two Jettas. The first 2006 Jetta I had I bought brand new and ended up getting it replaced because I had to replace the driver side door seal three times along with several other electrical problems. The dealer gave me another Jetta after that fiasco and ended up having even more problems. I had so many wiring and mechanical problems. My trunk actually flew up on I35 in the middle of a roadtrip with all of my stuff in the back because of an electrical glitch. Also, the dealer didnt follow through on service like they said, ESPECIALLY with tire car, and I ended up having to replace all 4 tires within only 20,000 miles. One of them was replaced TWICE. I no longer drive a Jetta.

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  Too pretty for the problems - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By mmarys - December 10 - 8:35 pm

  This is my "first purchased" car (previously owning a 2008 kia sportage) I recently bought this car with 128k miles on it because of its looks, gas mileage, and comfort. I test drove it and fell in love with it, however it was a mistake. The transmission is going out. It only happens whenever I go over 60mph in stop and go traffic, the car gets stuck in 6th gear and the rmps are really high for how little I press on the gas. I really regret purchasing this car, I paid cash for it so unfortunately I cant do anything about it. I refuse to replace the transmission because itll cost as much as I paid for it. Im already saving for a new car and it wont be a vw. I miss my Kia.

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  Be very careful! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
  By MJK - November 26 - 7:13 pm

  I have always wanted a VW. About six months ago I totaled my car so I was in the market for a new vehicle. I found a beautiful 2003 VW Jetta with 49,000+ miles at Carmax. It seemed like the perfect car. Given the fact that it was a 2003 with almost 50,000 miles I decided to buy the Carmax warranty. And Im SO glad I did! A month after I bought the car the windows and door locks would only work when it seemed to be hot outside. If it wasnt about 90 I couldnt roll the windows up or down! And never mind being able to lock the doors! Shortly there after the air conditioning stopped working. Throughout the less than three months that I have owned the car, aside from everything

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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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  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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  DISAPPOINTED-Poor Quality VW - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By meeghanm1236 - November 16 - 2:00 am

  I have one of the VW lemons. Since 2002 car has been towed 7 times for 7 different mechanical problems. I am frustrated. I wrote to VW with copies of all receipts, NO RESPONSE. I guess they already have my money, so they could care less. Good Luck on your legal action. I wish I had the money, but with my monthly car payment for this lemon, I am broke. And carless at the moment, since it was towed once again. A brand new car, especially a VW should not have these problems.

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  Fatiguing to drive long distances - 2014 Volkswagen Jetta
  By gemigniani1 - November 13 - 3:10 pm

  Seats are and well shaped and comfortable for about 15 minutes, then you realize they are too hard and fatigue and soreness begins to set in. Road noise is prominent so between the noise and hard seats, the car is not one you look forward to driving long distances. The 2013 Corolla is considerably better for longer trips. I have not driven the resigned 2014 Corolla to see if it is still comfortable on long trips. Another undesirable feature of the Jetta is that the effort required to activate the power windows is very high. Ive never experienced that in an American or Asian car.

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  Reliable at first but .......... - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
  By DC101 - November 11 - 10:00 am

  Good car at first but always consumed lots of oil, keep an eye on dipstick ! Windows have always been an on/off problem but car has been reliable until 120,000 miles at which point electrical problems (misfiring) started to plague the car. Had it in several times for same problem. Still not resolved, dealership(s) can not find cause of problem so car now deemed unreliable (broke down 3 times in 1 month on major highways). VW Customer care is totally worthless. Will not reimburse me for out of pocket towing and car rental costs for VW parts gone bad.