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:

• 

  Jettas ROCK! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By LukyDuk07 - October 8 - 2:00 am

  After my first car i was painstakingly looking for another car that would last and yet look good. The Jetta was the best bet! i love the way it runs and the inside and outside of the vehicle. i love my car!

• 

  Early Impressions - All positive - 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
  By TheMagicTiki - October 7 - 5:03 am

  I was looking for a small commuter car that, while reasonably priced, had a bit of style and personality for the daily commute. While some excel in certain areas, nothing else we test drove had the same combination of features, and style that this Jetta has. After two weeks of ownership, we are very pleased so far. Plenty of interior room for adults (or big kids) in the front/back seat. Rides & responds like a solid German car should. Great torque and acceleration (Ill give up the 2-3 MPG for that over others in the class). SEL adds some great creature comforts. Sure, its not a BMW... but it is close enough to stand out as a cut above the class of economy appliances in this segment.

• 

  3rd Diesel and the best yet - 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Marc - October 7 - 2:00 am

  This is my third VW diesel (85 Golf, 98 Jetta,09 Jetta) What a car! Very fast and shifts like a manual. 22300 miles so far and have averaged 44.7 mpg combined hiway and city driving. Drove from eastern CT to northern Alabama and back on 41 gallons of fuel. Thats over 52 mpg. Much quieter that the other two I owned.

• 

  Highly recommended - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Andrew - October 5 - 12:16 pm

  When I was 18, I bought a new car to replace my 98 Ford Contour. My old car was unreliable, shameful, and boring. So for $12,500, I bought a 2002 Jetta 1.8T. This car is a perfect blend of practicality, power, class, and reliability. I get 23 mpg city/31 highway. The Turbo kicks into high gear, and gives you all the power you need . The interior? I have leather, heated seats, power windows, even a power sunroof. And now, almost 2 years later, STILL not one thing has gone wrong with it. Sure, I take good care of it, but Volkswagen has really given me a great product here. not a very big car, but extremely safe. So if you want a car that you can be proud of, for a good price, get one of these

• 

  Great car - auf vieder sien to fuelpumps - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By DnA Diesel - October 2 - 10:00 am

  What a great car! My wife travels a the mileage is fantastic - 65 mpg(Imp)/55 mpg(US). The ride is great, steering and braking are well balanced and have excellent feel typical of German cars. Rear leg room is a bit cramped, trunk is huge for a "compact", heated seats in winter are a nice but the velour seat material is a pain. It is a magnet for lint. Unless cost is prohibitive, get the leather. The diesel drives well year round - dont listen to what pepole say about stinky, smokey, slow diesels...VWs are not. In the end, the vehicle is a joy to drive and I accept its slightly smaller interior (in the back) because VW had not put a TDI in the Passat.

• 

  Very Happy with used Jetta for daughter - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
  By gjacobsen - September 30 - 10:00 am

  I just bought this fun little car after much research for my daughter. I have owned German porsches before and loved them. Although you cant compare this car to a porsche, it really is fun to drive. With six air bags, solid build, it is a very safe car for a new driver. I have read the negative posts and the positive ones. Even though there were more negative ones than positive, I chose a car that is fun to drive and is safe. It has more than ample power for a teenager or adult commuter. I did get an extended warranty, mainly because of the negative posts and the costs of German repairs. As I said, I have owned porsches so I know.

• 

  Coming back to VW - Why did I leave? - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
  By ToledoTom - September 30 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE the car! Not quite getting the gas milage I expect going 75 & 80 on I- 75 probaly doesnt help! Car is Super Quiet and LOVES to Go FAST,interior areas improved over Wifes New Beetle, cup holders are great and the back slides out for easier accessability. Security system is the greatest and doors are solid with inbeam construction. Oil changes are seasonal 6000 to 9000 miles because they come with Synthetic motor oil LOVE my Jetta Wagon - have 2105 miles and only 8 days old! Have exterior options on like - fitted mud flaps, Chrome foot pedals, window wind shades and decals or front bra, really makes the differance!

• 

  Jetta Wolfsburg is the best deal around! - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By vwguy53 - September 30 - 6:23 am

  Excellent value and features. Wasnt a big fan of the 2005 redesign (looks are too Japanese...), but the 2.0T and 6-sp manual sold me! You get the GLI/GTI powertrain and top-notch build quality for not much more than Civic money. Youd have to spend thousands more to find a car with comparable performance, features, and quality. Herbie made me a VW fan. And owning 25+ VWs over the years have only made me more enthusiastic about the brand.

• 

  VW Jetta TDI - 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
  By stude - September 29 - 5:56 pm

  Has been a great car. Avg mpg 42+. Very peppy, great driving and riding car. A joy to drive.

• 

  Happy used VW buyer - 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
  By Scott - September 29 - 9:30 am

  Bought the 08 SE on E-bay exactly 1 year ago this week and am thrilled with my purchase. The car was auctioned off after a theft recovery and I was very apprehensive about buying a used car on-line, but have had zero regrets since my purchase. The VW handles great and looks brand new with only 12,400 mi. at purchase. I now have 23K miles and have only had oil change and tire rotations performed by the local dealer. Just wish the SE had full power seats for easier adjustment (not just pwr recline). Consistently getting 21- 24mpg mixed city/hwy and best mileage of 27mpg highway only on trip to Austin,TX without AC on cruising at 65.