Like other vehicles in Volkswagen’s 2017 lineup, the Jetta compact sedan returns with something of a limp. That’s because, as with other models, the once-desirable diesel models are not being offered in the wake of the German automaker’s emissions-cheating scandal. VW optimistically says the Jetta’s trim lineup has been "simplified," with the former hybrid model also being shown the door. Still, what remains has some appeal. All 2017 Jettas are powered by turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engines, ranging from a small 1.4-liter in lower models to the potent 210-horsepower 2.0-liter in the performance-oriented Jetta GLI. The Jetta stands out from rivals like the venerable Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic with European character and spry manners, but its uphill battle against those stalwarts just got steeper.
Used 2017 Volkswagen Jetta Pricing
The 2017 Volkswagen Jetta has a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting at $18,715 for a base, manual-transmission model. Most buyers will opt for an automatic, which is an extra $1,100. We recommend at least stepping up to the $21,715 SE model, which has more amenities and the blind-spot monitoring safety feature. The Jetta SEL begins quite a bit higher at $25,815, while the 2017 Jetta GLI starts at $28,715 and can reach to just under $30,000 with an automatic transmission. At these prices, the Jetta begins slightly above rivals like the Honda Civic, Chevrolet Cruze, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra and Kia Forte. Before buying, check the KBB.com Fair Purchase Price to see what others are paying for their new Jetta. Going forward, we expect the Jetta’s resale value to be on the lower end of the compact-car spectrum.
Driving the Used 2017 Volkswagen Jetta
All Jettas remain on the spry, fun-to-drive spectrum among compact sedans, and that attribute only intensifies as you climb trims. The Jetta S and SE models come with a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that delivers good acceleration and great efficiency, while the Jetta SEL uses a larger, 1.8-liter turbo-4 that has more punch yet still offers good fuel economy. The Jetta GLI is the most powerful variant with its 210-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo, and combined with its sport-tuned suspension can be thought of as a less-expensive Audi, the luxury-brand cousin of Volkswagen. Aside from invigorating engines, we appreciate the Jetta’s responsive steering and brakes, and smooth transmissions. Jettas have a taut but compliant ride, but the Jetta GLI with its stiffer suspension and larger, 18-inch wheels can be harsh.
Interior Comfort
The Jetta 5-passenger sedan offers good interior space, though rear legroom can’t quite match that of the Toyota Corolla. At 15.5 cubic feet, the Jetta’s trunk is as big as that of a midsize sedan. The Jetta’s interior feels minimalist and clean, with DNA from its European cousin Audi. We like small touches such as the adjustable armrest between the driver and passenger that comes on all but base models, and the 1-touch power operation for all four windows. Unlike competitors, genuine leather seating isn’t offered — just V-Tex Leatherette. All Jettas come with a simple-to-use touch-screen audio system.
Exterior Styling
As with its sleek yet minimalistic interior, the 2017 Jetta’s exterior styling favors quiet sophistication over swooping lines, a massive grille or — heaven forbid — a giant rear spoiler. This is European subtlety, clean and simple. We’re rather fond of this approach, and while the Jetta may not scream, "Look at me," we wager it will stand the test of time better than a fair share of its rivals. Jetta GLI models can be spotted via their unique front fascia with a red line running across the grille, red brake calipers and a small rear spoiler built into the trunk.
Favorite Features
GLI
For drivers seeking a cure for the boring sedan, the Jetta GLI is welcome medicine. In addition to sporty manners, the GLI brings the most standard equipment in the Jetta’s lineup, including advanced safety and driving aids, and a premium audio system.
1.4T TURBOCHARGED GASOLINE ENGINE
This powerplant recently replaced the dated, 115-horsepower 2.0-liter engine formerly used in Jetta base models, and the car is far better for it. This thoroughly modern engine grants a great balance of power and efficiency.
Standard Features
The 2017 Jetta lineup has been reduced to four trims: S, SE, SEL and the top-line, performance-oriented GLI. At its most basic, the Jetta includes a turbocharged engine, 5-speed manual transmission (automatic is optional), rearview camera, 6-way driver’s seat with height adjustment, and 16-inch wheels. Infotainment is provided by a 5-inch color touch-screen system that incorporates AM/FM/CD player with SD and USB ports, and Bluetooth phone connectivity. For $3,000 more, the SE model includes power sunroof, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, heated front seats, larger touch-screen display with phone app features, faux leather seating, push-button start and premium wheels.
Factory Options
Aside from a 6-speed automatic transmission that’s standard on SEL models, most extras in the 2017 Jetta sedan are had by climbing trims. The SEL also includes a more powerful engine, power driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, navigation system, rain-sensing windshield wipers and forward-collision warning system with automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Top-line GLI models add a still-more-powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, 400-watt Fender premium audio system and the Park Pilot front and rear parking-sensor system.
Engine & Transmission
With the demise of the diesel and hybrid powertrains for 2017, the latest Jetta is offered only with turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engines. On the upside, whichever of the three you choose is easy to recommend. Jetta S and SE models use a 1.4-liter, SEL models have a more powerful 1.8-liter, and the GLI goes larger (and more powerful still) with a 2.0-liter. All Jettas are front-wheel drive. S and SE models come with a 5-speed manual transmission, but most buyers will opt for the 6-speed automatic, which is standard on the SEL. The manual transmission on Jetta GLI models is a 6-speed. Though VW notes that the max power figures seen below are achieved via premium gasoline, all the engines are fine drinking regular unleaded. 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 (S, SE) 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-4 (SEL, Sport)
150 horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
184 lb-ft of torque @ 1,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 28/40 mpg (manual), 28/38 mpg (automatic)
170 horsepower @ 4,800 rpm
184 lb-ft of torque @ 1,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 25/35 mpg (automatic)
2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (GLI)
210 horsepower @ 5,300 rpm
207 lb-ft of torque @ 1,700 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/33 mpg (manual), 24/33 mpg (automatic)
Note: Due to changes in EPA testing to more effectively reflect real-world conditions, some 2017 models show slightly lower fuel-economy scores than their 2016 versions.
KBB Vehicle Review and Rating Methodology
Our Expert Ratings come from hours of both driving and number crunching to make sure that you choose the best car for you. We comprehensively experience and analyze every new SUV, car, truck, or minivan for sale in the U.S. and compare it to its competitors. When all that dust settles, we have our ratings. We require new ratings every time an all-new vehicle or a new generation of an existing vehicle comes out. Additionally, we reassess those ratings when a new-generation vehicle receives a mid-cycle refresh — basically, sprucing up a car in the middle of its product cycle (typically, around the 2-3 years mark) with a minor facelift, often with updates to features and technology. Rather than pulling random numbers out of the air or off some meaningless checklist, KBB’s editors rank a vehicle to where it belongs in its class. Before any car earns its KBB rating, it must prove itself to be better (or worse) than the other cars it’s competing against as it tries to get you to spend your money buying or leasing. Our editors drive and live with a given vehicle. We ask all the right questions about the interior, the exterior, the engine and powertrain, the ride and handling, the features, the comfort, and of course, about the price. Does it serve the purpose for which it was built? (Whether that purpose is commuting efficiently to and from work in the city, keeping your family safe, making you feel like you’ve made it to the top — or that you’re on your way — or making you feel like you’ve finally found just the right partner for your lifestyle.)
We take each vehicle we test through the mundane — parking, lane-changing, backing up, cargo space and loading — as well as the essential — acceleration, braking, handling, interior quiet and comfort, build quality, materials quality, reliability.
More About How We Rate Vehicles
FAQs
How many miles will a 2017 Jetta last? ›
In many cases, the VW Jetta can run for more than 200,000 miles when properly maintained. Most VW Jetta owners drive their cars for 7 and a half years, which is usually around 75,000 miles before they upgrade to a new model with the latest features.
What is a Volkswagen Jetta worth? ›2020 Volkswagen Jetta Value - $15,617-$29,443 | Edmunds.
Do jettas hold their value? ›Despite Volkswagen's spotty reputation for reliability - the brand fairs poorly in J.D. Powers' annual rankings of long-term dependability - its cars hold their value well.
What is the best year of used Jetta? ›- 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. The 2011 Jetta stands out as a solid compact car in that given year. ...
- 2017 Volkswagen Jetta. Buyers looking for a newer Jetta will have a lot to love with the 2017 year. ...
- 2020 Volkswagen Jetta. 2020 is the year when VW got it right with the Jetta.
Overall - the Volkswagen Jetta has yearly car maintenance costs total to $609 .
How many miles is too much for a Volkswagen? ›Volkswagen cars typically last around 150,000 miles as long as it is serviced and taken good care of. VW cars you buy today usually last longer than VWs that are just 10 years old as they are built better and easier to maintain.
What is resale value of Volkswagen? ›The resale value of Volkswagen Polo can be anywhere between Rs. 3.5 lakh to Rs. 4.5 lakh for the petrol variant and Rs. 4.5lakh to Rs.
How good is a Volkswagen Jetta? ›The Volkswagen Jetta Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 21st out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $609 which means it has average ownership costs. Repairs are less severe and less frequent than the average car, so the Jetta is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.
Is a Volkswagen Jetta good on gas? ›Volkswagen Jetta Fuel Economy. The Volkswagen Jetta is a fuel-efficient sedan that is both reliable, practical, and affordable. With an estimated combined highway and city of 35 miles per gallon, the 2022 Jetta is an excellent option for car buyers seeking a fuel-efficient car for sale.
How long do jettas usually last? ›Although some Jettas seem to go on forever the average one will last around 200,000 – 250,000 miles before major components may need replacing or the cost of repairs outweigh the cost of the vehicle.
How often do jettas need oil changes? ›
You should have your Volkswagen Jetta oil changed every 5,000-7,000 miles. However, if you don't keep track of the miles on your odometer, there are a few other ways to tell that it's time to have your oil changed.
How fast do jettas depreciate? ›A Volkswagen Jetta will depreciate 17% after 5 years and have a 5 year resale value of $22,274. The chart below shows the expected depreciation for the next 10 years. These results are for vehicles in good condition, averaging 12,000 miles per year.
What are the most common problems with VW Jetta? ›- Body Problems. ...
- Harsh Shifting on Automatic Transmission Jettas. ...
- Window Regulator Failure. ...
- Unusual Odor from HVAC Vents. ...
- Electrical Issues. ...
- Contaminated Air Bag Clock Spring. ...
- ABS Module Failure. ...
- Coolant and Oil Leaks.
The Jetta will do very well in light to moderate snow, however to get the best possible performance we would advise investing in a good set of snow tires. Snow tires or winter tires will give you more traction which will make the FWD Jetta more reliable and safer to drive in deep snow and on icy roads.
Are VW more expensive to repair? ›Median Volkswagen Maintenance Cost
Volkswagen came in at #22, costing an average of $7,800 in maintenance over the course of the car's first decade. This is less expensive than Ford, Chevrolet, Jeep, and Kia. It's less than $600 more than vehicles from Nissan, Mazda, and Honda.
VW Jetta Transmission Cost
The cost of a new VW Jetta transmission could be over $3,500 depending on the vehicle, however, transmission services such as fluid changes and a transmission fluid flush are considerably less lavish, in some cases costing less than $150.
The 2017 Jetta has an above-average predicted reliability rating of 3.5 out of five.
Are Volkswagens hard to work on? ›According to RepairPal.com, Volkswagens are slightly less likely to need urgent repairs as compared to other cars. Fewer severe repairs can save you money, not mention the inconvenience.
Do Volkswagens break down a lot? ›Volkswagen Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Volkswagen Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 12th out of 32 for all car brands. This rating is based on an average across 345 unique models. The average annual repair cost for a Volkswagen is $676, which means it has above average ownership costs.
Can a car last 500000 miles? ›Yes, you can buy a 500,000-mile used car, provided…
Even when it comes to your ownership, you have to maintain the maintenance routine. Read the owner's manual, stick to the servicing schedule, check your driving habits, and you can drive a modern used car or truck of a further 500,000 miles.
What mileage is too high for a used car? ›
What is considered high mileage on a car? Often, 100,000 miles is considered a cut-off point for used cars because older vehicles often start requiring more expensive and frequent maintenance when mileage exceeds 100,000.
Do VW Golf hold their value? ›Medium cars
The seventh generation Volkswagen Golf has been around for 18 months now, so it's not quite the latest thing anymore. However, a used Golf is always in demand and a new example should retain roughly half its initial value over three years.
One of the best vehicles for resale value is Toyota, which consistently sees resale returns of between 50% for standard models, and up to 70% for high-end models.
Do VW Passats hold their value? ›A Volkswagen Passat will depreciate 17% after 5 years and have a 5 year resale value of $20,730.
What year Jetta is the most reliable? ›2011 Jetta: This model stands out as a reliable Jetta with very few known issues. You'll be able to find a spacious cabin for both passengers and cargo, impressive gas mileage, and respectable safety ratings. 2017 Jetta: If you want a newer model, then you should consider the 2017 model.
Why do people like Jetta? ›People love the German-engineering and the solid build of the vehicles. They feel steady on the road, the interior is just about the best available for mass-production vehicles and, while some detractors claim reliability is an issue, lifelong fans typically remain fans because they follow their maintenance schedule.
What is the top of the line Jetta? ›2022 VW Jetta SEL
Appreciate a top-level 2022 Jetta sedan experience with the SEL trim. Enjoy premium seats and entertainment features, along with a sunroof.
What we will say is that most models can drive about 30 miles after the fuel indicator light comes on. This is more or less true depending on how hard you're pressing the accelerator and how old your vehicle is.
Which Jetta has the best mpg? ›Which Volkswagen Is the Most Fuel Efficient? The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta is the most fuel-efficient model in the 2022 VW lineup, returning up to 43 highway mpg. The 2022 Taos, meanwhile, is the most efficient VW SUV for sale, offering shoppers up to 37 mpg on the highway.
How many miles can a Volkswagen Jetta last on a full tank? ›On a full tank of fuel, the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta has a maximum highway driving range between 435 and 541 miles depending on the trim level.
How big is a Volkswagen Jetta gas tank? ›
The 2020 Volkswagen Jetta is estimated to provide 30 city mpg and 40 highway mpg. With its 13.5-gallon fuel tank, you can expect to travel far before you need to stop for gas. Now you may be wondering how far the 2020 VW Jetta can travel on a single tank of gas.
Are VW reliable? ›Volkswagen Reliability Ratings
The recent ratings carried out by 2021 Consumer Reports give each brand an average reliability ranking and in this the Volkswagen scored fairly high. The brand was ranked in 24th place with a score of 36 points.
The average cost for a Volkswagen Jetta oil change is between $131 and $146. Labor costs are estimated between $35 and $44 while parts are priced between $96 and $102. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific model year or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
What's better 5w30 or 5w40? ›In practice, this means that each oil is just as viscous at lower temperatures and will remain viscous at -30°C, however 5w40 oil outperforms 5w30 oils at higher temperatures, being effective up to ambient temperatures of 50°C, as opposed to 30°C.
How long does VW synthetic oil last? ›Synthetic oil was created in a lab and is designed to last longer and be cleaner than conventional oil. With synthetic, the recommended time to change your oil is after 5,000 to 7,000 miles or after roughly six months.
Which car loses its value fastest? ›Cars Under $25K that Depreciate the Fastest
The top spot belongs to the Mitsubishi Mirage, which loses an average of 57.8% of its value over five years, amounting to around $9,300 in value. The second and third are the Chevrolet Sonic and Volkswagen Jetta, both with a five-year average depreciation rate of 56.5%.
| Top 10 Vehicles With the Highest Depreciation – iSeeCars Study | ||
|---|---|---|
| Rank | Vehicle | Average 5-Year Depreciation |
| 1 | Nissan LEAF | 65.1% |
| 2 | BMW i3 | 63.1% |
| 3 | BMW 7 Series | 61.5% |
Cars lose the most value in the first year, and depreciation continues for about five years. A car can lose up to 20% of its value in the first year, and over the first five years fall to around 40% from the original price. That means it loses about 15% of the value each year after the first year.
Is the 2017 Jetta reliable? ›The 2017 Jetta has an above-average predicted reliability rating of 3.5 out of five.
How many miles do Volkswagen Jettas usually last? ›Although some Jettas seem to go on forever the average one will last around 200,000 – 250,000 miles before major components may need replacing or the cost of repairs outweigh the cost of the vehicle.
What is the average lifespan of a Volkswagen Jetta? ›
On average, a Volkswagen Jetta lasts between 160.000 – 185.000 miles. A Volkswagen Jetta has to go to the garage for unscheduled repairs 0.32 times a year with a 10% chance of severe problems. Furthermore, Jetta owners spend an average of $609 per year on repairs.
Is VW Jetta a reliable car? ›According to RepairPal, the Volkswagen Jetta earns a 4.0 out of 5.0 for reliability due to these three factors: Cost: On average, the annual repairs and maintenance on a Volkswagen Jetta cost $609 while the average for compact cars is $526 and $652 for all vehicle models.
What does TSI stand for? ›Drivers may be aware that their TSI engine is a gas Volkswagen engine, but they may not know how this engine offers advantages over other gas engines. TSI stands for “turbocharged stratified injection” and was inspired by the Volkswagen TDI Clean Diesel and FSI direct fuel injection engines.
Are Volkswagens expensive to fix? ›Median Volkswagen Maintenance Cost
Volkswagen came in at #22, costing an average of $7,800 in maintenance over the course of the car's first decade. This is less expensive than Ford, Chevrolet, Jeep, and Kia. It's less than $600 more than vehicles from Nissan, Mazda, and Honda.
2011 – 2018 VW Jetta (6th Generation)
For this generation, Volkswagen dropped the wagon body style and took away some of the features that made the sedan a premium compact car.
- Body Problems. ...
- Harsh Shifting on Automatic Transmission Jettas. ...
- Window Regulator Failure. ...
- Unusual Odor from HVAC Vents. ...
- Electrical Issues. ...
- Contaminated Air Bag Clock Spring. ...
- ABS Module Failure. ...
- Coolant and Oil Leaks.
The Jetta will do very well in light to moderate snow, however to get the best possible performance we would advise investing in a good set of snow tires. Snow tires or winter tires will give you more traction which will make the FWD Jetta more reliable and safer to drive in deep snow and on icy roads.
Are Volkswagen reliable? ›The Volkswagen Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 12th out of 32 for all car brands. This rating is based on an average across 345 unique models. The average annual repair cost for a Volkswagen is $676, which means it has above average ownership costs.
What is resale value of Volkswagen? ›The resale value of Volkswagen Polo can be anywhere between Rs. 3.5 lakh to Rs. 4.5 lakh for the petrol variant and Rs. 4.5lakh to Rs.
Are Volkswagen good with high mileage? ›It's true – VWs of all shapes and sizes are some of the longest-lasting, most reliable vehicles you'll ever find on the roads today, which is why you see them used well beyond 200,000 miles on a regular basis.
Which car has the best longevity? ›
| Longest-Lasting Vehicles to Reach 200k Miles – iSeeCars Study | ||
|---|---|---|
| Rank | Vehicle | % of Cars Over 200k Miles |
| 1 | Toyota Land Cruiser | 16.3% |
| 2 | Toyota Sequoia | 11.2% |
| 3 | Chevrolet Suburban | 5.1% |
Volkswagen recalled 2013-2014 VW Jetta Hybrid models that were manufactured October 2012 through October 2013, and were equipped with a DQ-200 direct-shift gearbox. It seems that fluid additives used in the transmission may cause internal components to corrode.
Why is the Volkswagen Jetta a good car? ›The Jetta has easy-to-use controls, great fuel economy, and a relatively spacious cabin. A 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission is shared with the new Taos SUV. Fuel economy was excellent at 34 mpg overall when we tested it with the previous 1.4-liter turbo.
Is the Jetta discontinued? ›It's currently two to three years into its lifecycle and was just updated for the 2022 model year. We'll let the car ride." Exactly for how long Keogh didn't say, but he made it quite clear the Jetta remains a key part of the automaker's US lineup.