Volkswagen Jetta Review

2008 Volkswagen Jetta SEL Sedan Shown

Few small cars have the following of the Volkswagen Jetta, VW's best-selling model in the U.S. The name, says VW, refers to the Atlantic jetstream, "combined with the luxury and power of a modern jetliner."

Early models were homely and underpowered, but a successful mid-1990s redesign established the Volkswagen Jetta as the compact sedan of choice for up-and-coming buyers in their 20s. This model's subtly upscale cabin accommodations, a fun-to-drive demeanor and VW-cool styling set it apart from mainstream economy cars. Availability of a diesel model called the TDI meant that the Jetta could be very fuel-efficient as well. Later, Volkswagen added a Jetta wagon, which proved popular with young families.

Recently, VW noted that the average Jetta buyer was now in his 30s and likely in need of more room. So the company made the fifth-generation model (2005 to present) considerably larger, transforming it from a compact into a midsize car. In the process, styling cues and handling characteristics were softened, giving the Jetta a more conventional look and feel. Although the sporty GLI model brings back the fun, it's also fairly expensive.

Moving the Jetta up in size and prestige may very well have been the right tactic, as it's selling well. However, it remains to be seen how this will affect the nameplate's reputation with younger customers.

A midsize car, the current-generation VW Jetta sedan debuted halfway through the 2005 model year, a year in which both fourth- and fifth-generation Jettas were sold. The fifth-generation Jetta wagon known as the SportWagen arrives for 2008.

Current Volkswagen Jetta

The current Volkswagen Jetta includes S, SE and SEL trim levels. Power comes from a 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder. It's not the smoothest engine in the world, but its larger output as compared to that of earlier engines make it a big step up from previous base Jetta engines. A five-speed manual is standard on the S and SE, with a six-speed automatic optional. The SEL comes only with the auto.

The Jetta sets itself apart from domestic and Japanese economy sedans by offering a distinctly European feel to the driving experience and interior. Features are also plentiful. The S trim boasts standard cruise control, full power accessories, an eight-speaker stereo and convincing faux-leather upholstery, while the SE features upgrades like a sunroof, heated front seats and 10-speaker stereo for around $20,000. Further luxuries can be had with the SEL trim and through stand-alone options.

For a sportier flavor, Volkswagen currently offers the Wolfsburg Edition that features the separate GLI model's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual. The slick six-speed DSG automanual transmission is optional on the Wolfsburg Edition.

In all Jettas, cabin furnishings have a premium feel, and fit and finish is outstanding. The ride is smooth and quiet, and adults won't mind riding in the backseat. Overall, this is a practical, well-appointed car worth considering if you're in need of a sedan for under $25K.

Past Volkswagen Jetta Models

The current-generation VW Jetta was introduced for 2005 and overlapped with the previous generation for one year. The initial 2.5-liter five-cylinder base engine made only 150 hp, while trim levels originally included the Value Edition, 2.5, TDI, 2.0T and GLI. The diesel-powered TDI became the victim of new emissions regulations after 2006. Still, for those interested in getting excellent fuel economy, a used Jetta TDI with its 1.9-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder (100 hp, 177 pound-feet of torque) will return mileage in the 40s. For 2008, trim levels were reorganized and renamed, the base engine grew by 20 horses and the GLI became its own distinct model within the VW family tree.

The fourth generation, sold in sedan form from 1999-2005 and as a wagon from 2001-'05, was the most popular 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 '01. It was also an entertaining car to drive, and like the current model, 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.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.