Volkswagen Jetta research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The Jetta is a roomy, comfortable compact sedan with a big trunk. Sixth-generation cars (2011-2018) offered many engines, including a frugal TDI diesel and a hybrid; turbo engines took over from 2014-2016. The 2019 redesign brought a modern cabin, standard smartphone integration and an 8-speed automatic, and 2022+ models use a 158-hp 1.5T rated about 35 mpg combined, with standard automatic emergency braking.

Model years covered: 2011–2026. Verify 2026 Jetta and GLI trims, features and pricing against current Volkswagen data.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Roomy rear seat and large trunk
Comfortable highway ride
Good fuel economy from turbo engines
Excellent TDI highway mpg
Sporty gli option
Standard aeb and blind spot 2022 and later

Things to know before you buy

TDI models need emissions settlement check
Engine choices change often resolve by VIN
Base 2.0 liter 2011 2015 is slow
DSG service on TDI gli and hybrid
Turbo engines need on time oil changes
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 6 (2011–2018)

The sixth-generation Jetta was bigger and cheaper than before, with 2.0L, 2.5L, TDI, GLI (2012+) and Hybrid (2013-2016) versions; the 1.8T replaced the 2.5L for 2014, the 2015 refresh updated styling and the TDI, and a 1.4T replaced the base 2.0L for 2016.

Buyer takeaway: A 2016-2018 1.4T or 1.8T is the best all-round used pick; TDIs need their emissions fix confirmed.

Generation 7 (2019–present)

The seventh generation on VW's MQB platform brought a 147-hp 1.4T (1.5T from 2022), an 8-speed automatic, standard LED headlights and smartphone integration, and a 228-hp GLI; the 2025 refresh added new styling and a new touchscreen and made the automatic standard on the regular Jetta.

Buyer takeaway: Choose 2022+ for the 1.5T and standard driver aids, or a GLI for performance.

Volkswagen Jetta by model year

2026 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2026 Jetta adds wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on every trim, a standard sunroof on the SE and premium audio on the SEL. It keeps the 158-hp 1.5L turbo and 8-speed automatic (about 29/40 mpg, 33 combined); the 228-hp GLI continues. Verify 2026 trims and pricing against current Volkswagen data.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo TSI I4 158 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 228 hp gli
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 6 speed manual gli only; 7 speed DSG dual clutch gli
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

Wireless apple carplay and android auto standard
Sunroof standard on se
Premium audio standard on SEL

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Warranty status and in service date; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2025 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2025 refresh brought a new front end, LED headlights, new wheels, an 8-inch touchscreen and touch-style climate controls. The 158-hp 1.5L turbo now comes only with the 8-speed automatic (about 29/39 mpg, 33 combined); a manual remains only on the 228-hp GLI. Trims are S, Sport, SE and SEL plus GLI.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo TSI I4 158 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 228 hp gli
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 6 speed manual gli only; 7 speed DSG dual clutch gli
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

Refreshed front end LED headlights and wheels
New 8 inch touchscreen and touch climate controls
Automatic standard manual now gli only
Trims s sport se SEL and gli

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Oil level and oil change records; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Warranty status and in service date; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2024 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2024 Jetta continues with the 158-hp 1.5L turbo and a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic (about 35 mpg combined), and standard automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. The 228-hp GLI remains the sporty option. It is an efficient, spacious compact sedan; confirm recalls and warranty by VIN.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo TSI I4 158 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 228 hp 258 lb ft gli
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 8 speed automatic; 7 speed DSG dual clutch gli
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

Largely carryover
Trim and package changes verify by VIN

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Oil level and oil change records; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2023 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2023 Jetta continues with the 158-hp 1.5L turbo and a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic (about 35 mpg combined), and standard automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. The 228-hp GLI remains the sporty option. It is an efficient, spacious compact sedan; confirm recalls and warranty by VIN.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo TSI I4 158 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 228 hp 258 lb ft gli
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 8 speed automatic; 7 speed DSG dual clutch gli
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

Largely carryover
Trim and package changes verify by VIN

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Oil level and oil change records; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2022 Volkswagen Jetta

For 2022 a 158-hp, 184 lb-ft 1.5L turbo replaced the 1.4T, and mileage improved to about 31/41 mpg with the automatic (35 combined). Digital gauges, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are standard. The 228-hp GLI comes only as the Autobahn.

Engines: 1.5 liter turbo TSI I4 158 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 228 hp 258 lb ft gli
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 8 speed automatic; 7 speed DSG dual clutch gli
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

New 158 hp 1.5 liter turbo replaces the 1.4T
Digital gauges aeb and blind spot monitor standard
Gli offered only in autobahn trim

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Oil level and oil change records; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2021 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2021 Jetta continues with a 147-hp 1.4L turbo and a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic (about 30/40 mpg), plus the 228-hp GLI. It offers a roomy back seat, a large trunk and a smooth highway ride. Confirm which driver aids are fitted and whether any original warranty remains by VIN.

Engines: 1.4 liter turbo TSI I4 147 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 228 hp 258 lb ft gli
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 8 speed automatic; 7 speed DSG dual clutch gli
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

Largely carryover
Trim and driver assist changes verify by VIN

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Oil level and oil change records; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2020 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2020 Jetta continues with a 147-hp 1.4L turbo and a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic (about 30/40 mpg), plus the 228-hp GLI. It offers a roomy back seat, a large trunk and a smooth highway ride. Confirm which driver aids are fitted and whether any original warranty remains by VIN.

Engines: 1.4 liter turbo TSI I4 147 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 228 hp 258 lb ft gli
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 8 speed automatic; 7 speed DSG dual clutch gli
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

Largely carryover
Trim and driver assist changes verify by VIN

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Oil level and oil change records; 8 speed automatic shift quality; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2019 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2019 Jetta was all-new on VW's MQB platform, with a 147-hp, 184 lb-ft 1.4L turbo and a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic (about 30/40 mpg). LED headlights, a rearview camera and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto are standard, and new cars carried a 6-year/72,000-mile warranty. The new GLI has a 228-hp 2.0L turbo.

Engines: 1.4 liter turbo TSI I4 147 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 228 hp 258 lb ft gli
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 8 speed automatic; 7 speed DSG dual clutch gli
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

All new seventh generation on mqb platform
8 speed automatic with stop start
Standard LED headlights and apple carplay android auto
New 228 hp gli
6 year 72000 mile transferable warranty on new cars

2018 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2018 Jetta offers a 150-hp 1.4L turbo (about 28 city / 40 highway with the manual), a 170-hp 1.8T, or the 210-hp GLI. It is a roomy, comfortable compact sedan with a big trunk. It is the last year before the 2019 redesign, which brought a more modern cabin and standard smartphone integration.

Engines: 1.4 liter turbo TSI I4 150 hp 184 lb ft; 1.8 liter turbo TSI I4 170 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 210 hp gli
Transmissions: 5 speed manual; 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual gli; 6 speed DSG dual clutch gli
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

Largely carryover
Hybrid no longer offered
Last year of the sixth generation

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Coolant leaks water pump and thermostat housing on turbo engines; Oil level and oil change records; DSG service records if gli; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2017 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2017 Jetta offers a 150-hp 1.4L turbo (about 28 city / 40 highway with the manual), a 170-hp 1.8T, or the 210-hp GLI. It is a roomy, comfortable compact sedan with a big trunk. Check turbo engines for coolant leaks and on-time oil changes.

Engines: 1.4 liter turbo TSI I4 150 hp 184 lb ft; 1.8 liter turbo TSI I4 170 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 210 hp gli
Transmissions: 5 speed manual; 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual gli; 6 speed DSG dual clutch gli
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

Largely carryover
Hybrid no longer offered

2016 Volkswagen Jetta

For 2016 a 150-hp 1.4L turbo replaced the old 115-hp base engine, bringing quicker acceleration and up to about 40 mpg highway with the manual. The 170-hp 1.8T, 210-hp GLI and Hybrid (its final year) continue, and App-Connect brought smartphone integration. The TDI was not sold new after Volkswagen's emissions stop-sale.

Engines: 1.4 liter turbo TSI I4 150 hp 184 lb ft; 1.8 liter turbo TSI I4 170 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 210 hp gli; 1.4 liter turbo hybrid 170 hp combined
Transmissions: 5 speed manual; 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual gli; 6 speed DSG dual clutch gli; 7 speed DSG dual clutch hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

1.4 liter turbo replaces the 115 hp 2.0 liter
App connect smartphone integration added
TDI diesel not sold new after emissions stop sale
Last year of the jetta hybrid

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Coolant leaks water pump and thermostat housing on turbo engines; Oil level and oil change records; Hybrid system and 7 speed DSG if hybrid; DSG service records if gli; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2015 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2015 refresh brought new front and rear styling, an upgraded interior and available blind-spot and forward-collision warning. A new 150-hp TDI (rated up to about 45 mpg highway) replaced the 140-hp version and was the last Jetta TDI sold new. The 115-hp base 2.0L, 170-hp 1.8T, 210-hp GLI and Hybrid continue.

Engines: 2.0 liter I4 115 hp 125 lb ft; 1.8 liter turbo TSI I4 170 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter TDI diesel I4 150 hp 236 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 210 hp 207 lb ft gli; 1.4 liter turbo hybrid 170 hp combined
Transmissions: 5 speed manual; 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual TDI and gli; 6 speed DSG dual clutch TDI and gli; 7 speed DSG dual clutch hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

New front and rear styling and upgraded interior
New 150 hp ea288 TDI diesel
Available blind spot warning and forward collision warning
Last year the TDI was sold new

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Coolant leaks water pump and thermostat housing on turbo engines; Oil level and oil change records; TDI emissions modification status if TDI; DSG service records if TDI or gli; Hybrid system and 7 speed DSG if hybrid; Driver assistance sensors if equipped; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2014 Volkswagen Jetta

For 2014 a 170-hp, 184 lb-ft 1.8T turbo four replaced the 2.5L five-cylinder in most Jettas, and every Jetta got a multilink rear suspension for better handling. The 115-hp 2.0L base, 140-hp TDI (about 30/42 mpg), 210-hp GLI and 170-hp Hybrid (about 42/48 mpg) continue. Check 1.8T cooling systems and TDI emissions status.

Engines: 2.0 liter I4 115 hp 125 lb ft; 1.8 liter turbo TSI I4 170 hp 184 lb ft; 2.0 liter TDI diesel I4 140 hp 236 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 210 hp 207 lb ft gli; 1.4 liter turbo hybrid 170 hp combined
Transmissions: 5 speed manual; 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual TDI and gli; 6 speed DSG dual clutch TDI and gli; 7 speed DSG dual clutch hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

Turbocharged 1.8 liter replaces the 2.5 liter five cylinder
Multilink rear suspension on all jettas
Gli rises to 210 hp
Car net connected services launched

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Coolant leaks water pump and thermostat housing on turbo engines; Oil level and oil change records; TDI emissions modification status if TDI; DSG service records if TDI or gli; Hybrid system and 7 speed DSG if hybrid; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2013 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2013 Jetta offers a 115-hp 2.0L, a 170-hp 2.5L five-cylinder, or a 140-hp TDI diesel (about 30/42 mpg). New for 2013 is the Jetta Hybrid, pairing a 1.4L turbo with an electric motor (170 hp combined, about 42/48 mpg) and a 7-speed DSG. TDIs need their emissions-settlement fix confirmed.

Engines: 2.0 liter I4 115 hp 125 lb ft; 2.5 liter I5 170 hp 177 lb ft; 2.0 liter TDI diesel I4 140 hp 236 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 200 hp 207 lb ft gli; 1.4 liter turbo hybrid 170 hp combined
Transmissions: 5 speed manual; 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual TDI and gli; 6 speed DSG dual clutch TDI and gli; 7 speed DSG dual clutch hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

Jetta hybrid added with 1.4 liter turbo and 7 speed DSG
Largely carryover otherwise

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; TDI emissions modification status if TDI; DSG service records if TDI or gli; Hybrid system and 7 speed DSG if hybrid; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

2012 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2012 Jetta offers a 115-hp 2.0L, a 170-hp 2.5L five-cylinder, or a 140-hp TDI diesel (about 30/42 mpg). New for 2012 is the sporty GLI with a 200-hp 2.0L turbo, a 6-speed manual or DSG, and a more sophisticated rear suspension. TDIs need their emissions-settlement fix confirmed.

Engines: 2.0 liter I4 115 hp 125 lb ft; 2.5 liter I5 170 hp 177 lb ft; 2.0 liter TDI diesel I4 140 hp 236 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 200 hp 207 lb ft gli
Transmissions: 5 speed manual; 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual TDI and gli; 6 speed DSG dual clutch TDI and gli
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

Sporty gli returns with 200 hp 2.0 liter turbo
Largely carryover otherwise

2011 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2011 Jetta sedan was all-new: bigger and cheaper, with much more rear legroom. Engines are a basic 115-hp 2.0L four (about 23-24 city / 32-34 highway), a 170-hp 2.5L five-cylinder (the popular choice), or a 140-hp TDI diesel rated about 30/42 mpg. TDIs are part of the diesel emissions settlement, so confirm the approved fix by VIN.

Engines: 2.0 liter I4 115 hp 125 lb ft; 2.5 liter I5 170 hp 177 lb ft; 2.0 liter TDI diesel I4 140 hp 236 lb ft
Transmissions: 5 speed manual; 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual TDI; 6 speed DSG dual clutch TDI
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door sedan

What changed:

All new sixth generation sedan
Bigger and cheaper than before
Rear legroom up about 2 7 inches
Jetta sportwagen continues on the older golf based design

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; TDI emissions modification status if TDI; DSG service records if TDI or gli; Clutch wear if manual; Sunroof drains if equipped; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.

Known issues and what to check

TDI Diesel Emissions Settlement Status (2011–2015)
Every 2011-2015 Jetta TDI is covered by Volkswagen's U.S. 2.0L diesel emissions settlement, which offered buybacks or an approved emissions modification. A TDI still on the road should have the modification done and documented. No 2016 Jetta TDI was sold new.
What to do: Ask for proof of the approved emissions modification and check the VIN with Volkswagen before buying a Jetta TDI.
DSG Dual-Clutch Service (TDI, GLI and Hybrid) (2011–2026)
Automatic TDI and GLI Jettas use a DSG dual-clutch, and the 2013-2016 Hybrid uses a 7-speed DSG. Wet-clutch DSGs need fluid service on Volkswagen's schedule; skipped service can cause rough shifts or mechatronic faults. Regular gas Jettas use conventional 6- or 8-speed automatics.
What to do: Look for DSG service records on TDI, GLI and Hybrid models.
1.8T and 2.0T Turbo Coolant Leaks (2012–2026)
The 1.8T (2014-2018) and GLI's 2.0T belong to Volkswagen's EA888 engine family, known for coolant leaks from the plastic water pump and thermostat housing as mileage builds. A known repair rather than a certain failure.
What to do: Check coolant level and look for leaks on 1.8T and GLI models.
Jetta Hybrid System Check (2013-2016) (2013–2016)
The Jetta Hybrid was sold in small numbers, so parts and technician familiarity are limited. Confirm the hybrid battery, electric motor and 7-speed DSG work properly and are warning-free.
What to do: Have a Volkswagen dealer check the hybrid system before buying a Jetta Hybrid.
Turbo and Direct-Injection Maintenance (2014–2026)
Jetta turbo engines (1.4T, 1.5T, 1.8T and 2.0T) use direct injection and need on-time oil changes with oil that meets Volkswagen's specification; carbon buildup on intake valves can occur at higher mileage.
What to do: Favor cars with regular, documented oil changes.
Jetta, GLI, Hybrid and SportWagen Disambiguation (2011–2026)
Jetta engines changed often: 2.0L (115 hp) and 2.5L five-cylinder (2011-2014), 1.8T (2014-2018), 1.4T (150 hp 2016-2018, 147 hp 2019-2021), 1.5T (2022+), TDI diesel (2011-2015), Hybrid (2013-2016) and the GLI's 2.0T. The 2011-2014 Jetta SportWagen is Golf-based and differs from the sedan.
What to do: Confirm the exact engine, transmission and trim before comparing.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model year, engine, transmission, equipment and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls; for TDI models, also confirm the emissions-settlement modification status.

Similar vehicles to consider

Questions this guide answers

What generation is this Volkswagen Jetta?
What engine does this Jetta have?
Is the Jetta TDI safe to buy after the diesel settlement?
What is the Jetta GLI?
What changed in the 2014, 2016, 2019, 2022 and 2025 Jetta?
What fuel economy does the Jetta get?
Does this Jetta have a DSG transmission?
What should I inspect on a used Jetta?
What recalls should I check by VIN?
What similar vehicles should I consider?