*Starting MSRP of $21,435 for a 2024 Jetta S 1.5L
TSI® with 6-speed manual transmission. Prices
exclude destination, taxes, title, other options, and
dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.
Brian Wong has worked in the automotive industry since 2010, writing over 1,000 car-related articles and testing and reviewing hundreds of vehicles over the course of career. Brian is a senior reviews editor at Edmunds and has also contributed to Cars.com, Motor Authority and Green Car Reports. Brian has also been featured on MotorWeek as an expert for several car comparisons. He loves convertibles (the smaller the better) and hates paying for parking, so Los Angeles is both the right and wrong city for him.
Pros
Pleasingly smooth ride
Ample storage in the cabin
Customizable digital instrument cluster lends a techy vibe
Cons
Brakes feel grabby at low speeds
Touch-sensitive steering wheel controls are tricky to use
Cabin is more plasticky than others in the class
What's new
SE trim level adds remote start
USB charging ports have more power (late availability)
Part of the seventh Jetta generation introduced in 2019
Overview
The Volkswagen Jetta got a major overhaul last year and is likely to carry over without big changes for 2023, with the only update of note the addition of remote start to SE models. Once a step behind the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra and Kia Forte (Edmunds' top-ranked small sedans), the Jetta is a more viable alternative after its recent updates.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta S 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.64 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Those changes included new styling, more standard features, improved technology, and a new turbocharged engine that should give the Jetta more pep. The Jetta's 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four makes 158 horsepower, an improvement of 11 hp over the outgoing model and one likely to help it feel less ponderous. But if you want more power, the Jetta GLI (which we cover separately) offers GTI-like performance in a sedan package.
Volkswagen's minimalist aesthetic stands in sharp contrast to the angular Elantra and Forte, and the Jetta goes about its business with less seriousness than the Civic. We feared the Jetta might go the route of other Volkswagen models and overdo the touch controls on the center stack and steering wheel for most of the car's functions, but instead it goes for the simpler (and better) solution with dials and buttons for the climate and volume/tuning knobs for its screen. If only the GTI and ID.4 could go back in time a little as well.
With an emphasis on style and value, including a long list of standard features and two years/20,000 miles of standard maintenance, the Jetta now sits as the contrarian pick to the mainstream compact sedans, and its roomy back seat makes it a better choice for those who will be carrying more than two people on the regular. See below for more information on the Jetta's trim levels and how it stacks up against competitors.
Which Jetta does Edmunds recommend?
The Jetta is well equipped even as a base model, but we recommend the midlevel SE trim. It includes all of the Jetta's available safety technology as standard, plus modern amenities such as keyless entry, heated seats, simulated leather and rain-sensing wipers for not much more than the base price. The SEL's technology upgrades are tempting (especially wireless connectivity for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay), but the price premium is too steep.
Volkswagen Jetta models
Volkswagen offers the 2023 Jetta in four trim levels: S, Sport, SE and SEL. There is also a sporty GLI model that we cover separately. All models are powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, borrowed from the Taos SUV and added to the Jetta last year. It produces 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque and is only available with front-wheel drive. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the S and Sport trims, while all the others come with an eight-speed automatic. Feature highlights for the Jetta include:
S
The Jetta line kicks off with this basic model featuring this equipment:
LED headlights
16-inch alloy wheels
6.5-inch touchscreen
Two USB ports
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Four-speaker sound system
Digital instrument cluster (8-inch display)
Volkswagen Car-Net mobile app with remote start, door locking/unlocking, parked location finder and other functions
The S also comes with standard advanced driver aids that include:
Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Volkswagen offers an affordable IQ.Drive package for the S trim models with the automatic transmission. It adds to the car's standard driver aids with:
Active blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot and can add steering assistance to discourage a lane change)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Jetta and the car in front)
Emergency assistance (identifies an unresponsive driver and brings the Jetta to a safe stop with the hazard lights flashing)
Sport
The Sport trim adds some cosmetic and performance upgrades, including:
17-inch alloy wheels
XDS cross differential lock (improves traction when accelerating out of corners)
Gloss-black front grille
Black window trim, mirror caps and headliner
Front accent lights
Sport front seats with contrast stitching
Rear-seat center armrest with cupholders
60/40-split folding rear seat
Similar to the Jetta S, the Jetta Sport with the automatic transmission is eligible for the IQ.Drive package of driver assist tech.
SE
Includes all IQ.Drive driver aids as standard equipment, along with:
17-inch alloy wheels
Remote engine start
Rain-sensing wipers
Simulated leather upholstery
Power-adjustable driver's seat
Heated front seats
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Keyless entry with push-button start
SEL
The top of the line for the Jetta by way of:
Adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
Sunroof
Automatic high beams
Heated exterior mirrors
Drive mode selector
Driver's seat memory settings
Upgraded infotainment system with 8-inch touchscreen, navigation and voice control
Bigger digital instrument cluster (10.25-inch display)
Wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
*Starting MSRP of $21,435 for a 2024 Jetta S 1.5L
TSI® with 6-speed manual transmission. Prices
exclude destination, taxes, title, other options, and
dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.
2022 Volkswagen Jetta Sport 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
I owned a 2017 Jetta S manual and recently purchased a 2022 Jetta Sport manual. The upgrades are significant in the '22. The seats are more comfortable and much more attractive. The 1.5L turbo has more punch, and the six speed manual is among the smoothest I've ever driven (and I have owned numerous standard transmission cars over 30 years of driving). The optional Driver Assistance … package is an awesome addition for the price. The autonomous cruise works well, leather steering wheel/shifter add some fit and finish, and knowing the car is equipped with emergency braking technology offers peace of mind. The best accident is the one you avoid.
I've filled the tank twice in this car. My first tank was a mix of city/highway, and I managed 37.9 mpg. The second tank of mostly highway driving surpassed 41 mpgs. My 17 Jetta would manage nearly 50 mpgs on long highway trips, and I have no doubt this new drivetrain will manage the same once broken in. Outstanding efficiency.
There are some basic plastics inside, and the car has an underwhelming radio. It doesn't have satellite radio unless you buy the top trim, and I think that's a meaningful omission and marketing mistake. That should be standard equipment, or at a minimum optional on any trim other than the base model. It's my only complaint.
All in all, it's a far-improved car over the past five model years. Noticeable improvement in the interior with digital instrumentation, seats, standard technology. The car has grown a few inches to really ride the line between a compact and midsize, which I really appreciate at the compact price. Massive trunk. While nobody will confuse the car with an Audi, it definitely is a handsome vehicle for the pedestrian price point. I definitely recommend the Sport model over the S for the small price increase. It meaningfully changes the presence of the automobile, both inside and out.
Is this a swanky car? Of course not. This is a bargain purchase. But VWs are safe, extremely efficient, feel well-built inside and out, and my 17 caused me zero mechanical or reliability issues in the five years I owned it. Nothing broke on the car at all, nothing required unexpected service. It's what brought me back for another quality commuter vehicle.
We have a much more expensive family SUV which shares our garage with the Jetta. The Jetta is the better value for the purchase price, as long as you have reasonable expectations for what you're purchasing. I would definitely recommend the brand and the vehicle far and away above any other competitive product other than the Honda Civic. That's a great car, too, and a comparable product. Between the two, I would argue it comes down to aesthetic preferences, but this car deserves far more accolades than it seems to be receiving.
Fantastic with impressive highway mpg of 40
5 out of 5 stars
Rick, 05/22/2022
2022 Volkswagen Jetta SEL 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
I don’t understand why somebody would buy a non turbo Mazda 3 (the comparable car) rather than this. The Jetta has great low end torque for around town driving that makes it very peppy. Easily handles passing on the highway at 80mph+. Fairly quiet and smooth ride. Interior is well designed but not fancy. The infotainment system with wireless CarPlay is a underrated feature - its quick … and I’ve never had an issue. Adaptive cruise control is basic but works well. Passengers have plenty of space (two large car seats now). I get 40-42mph on highways despite having AC blasting ice, CarPlay on, and going 80mph.
Get the SEL Premium if you can!
5 out of 5 stars
Micky from SoCal, 07/13/2021
2021 Volkswagen Jetta SEL Premium SULEV 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
This vehicle drives well above its class. Despite the small engine and low HP, it is peppy and smooth, and is eager to go. It’s very refined in its handling, reminding me of the mercedes S my Dad had when I was younger and I did my learners permit training on. No, it isn’t a V8 like that, but driving it feels very similar, which means VW had come a long way. No rattles or squeaks so far. …
The heated and cooled leather seats are comfortable, the driving position is great for a 6-3 person like me, the rear seats are easy to get kids into car seats (unlike last gen Jetta). The AC system cools well, the new stereo is cool (though I think it is due for a firmware update to fix a few bugs), and the digital cockpit is an awesome feature.
Edmunds claims they only got 30mpg combined. What were they doing? I live in a very hilly area and get 30mpg city on those trips. That’s a 600 ft elevation climb to drop kids at school, waiting in car lines, stopping starting and parking. And I turn the auto stop/start off. But I use the adaptive cruise control religiously, and I think that really helps with gas mileage.
On a highway run, I got 46 mpg. YMMV, but this is during the hot summer with AC running.
Considering what the average new car goes for, getting this car for under $29000 seems like a steal.
Nice Car for the Money
5 out of 5 stars
Redblock, 07/02/2021
2021 Volkswagen Jetta R-Line SULEV 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
Lots of features, great gas mileage, good Auto transmission unlike some of the competition which offer CVT Transmissions.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta, so we've included reviews for other years of the Jetta since its last redesign.
These Are the Cheapest New Cars & SUVs on Sale Today | Top 10 Least Expensive New Cars for 2023
New cars these days are expensive, to say the least — the average price of a new car is currently standing at almost $50,000 — and trying to find something less expensive can feel like a daunting task. Fortunately, though, there are still a decent number of cheaper new cars available,… and we're here to help you find them. Edmunds' Lauren McCay takes you through the top 10 cheapest new cars on sale today in the video above!
The Honda Civic was redesigned recently to give it more space, a quieter cabin and an improved interior. The Civic manages to be affordable, comfortable and fun-to-drive all at once. It does cost a little more than the Jetta, and the turbo engine we recommend comes at a higher trim level, while the Jetta has a more powerful standard engine.
The Elantra is also fresh off a redesign and features a striking, angular new look. The standard engine has less power than the Jetta and it didn't impress us with its driving dynamics. Still, the Elantra offers plenty of standard options, a longer warranty, and a hybrid version for greater efficiency.
The Mazda 3 offers a striking comparison with the Jetta, with plenty of style, a premium-feeling interior, and an emphasis on drivability. But that style and nimbleness come at the expense of a smaller cargo area and less rear legroom, putting it behind the Volkswagen in practicality. Still, the Mazda 3 does offer more flexibility in its drivetrain configurations, with the choice of two more powerful engines and all-wheel drive. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Mazda 3.
*Starting MSRP of $21,435 for a 2024 Jetta S 1.5L
TSI® with 6-speed manual transmission. Prices
exclude destination, taxes, title, other options, and
dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Jetta safety features:
Blind-Spot Monitor
Alerts you with visual and audible warnings if other vehicles are in your blind spot.
Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
Applies the brakes once the airbags go off to reduce the possibility of further damage during an accident.
Forward Collision Warning
Sounds an alert when a front collision is likely and primes and applies the brakes if necessary.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
4 / 5
Driver
4 / 5
Passenger
4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Rating
Front Seat
5 / 5
Back Seat
5 / 5
Rollover
Rating
Rollover
4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result
No Tip
Risk Of Rollover
13%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Poor
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Acceptable
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good
2023 Volkswagen Jetta First Impressions
by the Edmunds Experts
•5/23/2022
What is the Jetta?
In the market for a new compact sedan? We recommend starting your search with the Honda Civic, Kia Forte and Hyundai Elantra — Edmunds' top rated small sedans. But if you want something a little outside the box, the Volkswagen Jetta might give you what you're looking for. It's the most affordable vehicle in VW's lineup, but even base models are well equipped with features like alloy wheels, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, blind-spot monitoring and a spiffy digital instrument panel. The top-tier SEL adds niceties such as ventilated front seats, configurable ambient lighting and wireless smartphone compatibility — features that are exceedingly rare in this class.
Volkswagen gave the Jetta a major overhaul last year. Updated styling, additional standard features and a new, more powerful engine were all part of the upgrade and gave the Jetta a stronger value proposition than before. Given that a refresh is so recent, we don't expect any major changes for the 2023 model.
Edmunds says
The Volkswagen Jetta isn't our go-to small sedan, but it holds its own in this ultra-competitive class. Since the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta was significantly refreshed, we don't expect any major changes for the foreseeable future.
FAQ
Is the Volkswagen Jetta a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 Jetta both on the road and at the track. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2023 Jetta gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 36 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Jetta has 14.1 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Volkswagen Jetta. Learn more
What's new in the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta:
SE trim level adds remote start
USB charging ports have more power (late availability)
Part of the seventh Jetta generation introduced in 2019
To determine whether the Volkswagen Jetta is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Jetta. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Jetta's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta is a good car. Our consumer reviews show that the 2023 Jetta gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 36 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 Jetta is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2023 Volkswagen Jetta?
The least-expensive 2023 Volkswagen Jetta is the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta S 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $20,655.
Other versions include:
S 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $20,655
S 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $21,455
Sport 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $21,555
Sport 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $22,355
SE 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $24,385
SEL 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $28,385
What are the different models of Volkswagen Jetta?
If you're interested in the Volkswagen Jetta, the next question is, which Jetta model is right for you? Jetta variants include S 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6M), S 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A), Sport 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 6M), and Sport 4dr Sedan (1.5L 4cyl Turbo 8A). For a full list of Jetta models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
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