Model Strengths:

Affordability; excellent fit and finish; good handling and braking; TDI fuel economy

Model Overview

Volkswagen redesigned the popular Jetta for 2011, and it returns relatively unchanged for 2012. The sixth-generation sedan features larger dimensions inside and out, and there's plenty to like. The Jetta is offered in five trim levels, with four different powerplants. The base model is the S, which offers a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that makes 115 hp. SE and SEL models are powered by a 170-hp 2.5L 5-cylinder. TDI Jettas come with Volkswagen's proven 2.0L direct-injection turbodiesel, which is good for 140 hp and 236 ft-lb of torque and 42 mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on S, SE and SEL models, while a 6-speed automatic is optional. A 6-speed manual is standard on the TDI, and Volkswagen's slick dual-clutch automatic manual 6-speed is optional. To better compete with the pricing of compacts that come from Japan, Volkswagen trimmed some items that had previously been standard. For instance, rather than outfitting the Jetta with 4-wheel disc brakes, SE and SEL models have rear drums. Volkswagen also simplified the options list, with 18 equipment combinations available. S models come equipped with standard goodies such as heated power side mirrors, one-touch up/down power on all four windows, an AM/FM/CD stereo with MP3 playback, 6-way manual adjustment, air conditioning and a 60/40 split folding rear seat. Jetta SE adds V-Tex leatherette seating, an armrest and pass-through for the rear seat and cruise control. SEL trims bring 17-inch alloy wheels, bumper-integrated halogen fog lights, chrome accents, touch-screen navigation, Bluetooth, heated front seats, interior leather accents and a multi-function trip computer. Packaged convenience options for the SE add many of the premium features of the SEL, including heated seats, a premium audio system, and Bluetooth, while a sunroof package includes an even more robust touch-screen stereo system with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer and SD memory card reader, plus a tinted power sunroof. The sunroof is available on the SEL as well, as is a sport package that adds a specially tuned suspension, sport seats, and aluminum trim on the pedals and door trim. Standard safety equipment on all Jettas includes anti-lock brakes, driver and front passenger front and side thorax airbags, side curtain airbags, traction and stability control and engine braking assist.

Model Changes

Following a redesign in 2011, the Jetta sedan sees few changes for 2012.

Model Value

In 2011, Volkswagen revised the Jetta's packaging to better compete with the Honda Civic, MAZDA3 and Toyota Corolla. Previously, price kept it just out of reach of potential buyers of the competition, but with an attractive redesign, Volkswagen also reconsidered options packaging and the Jetta's price level. Now, buyers can get a premium German sedan at an entry-level price, with fit and finish similar to that on cars that cost two and three times as much.