Volkswagen Jetta
Euro · Volkswagen
Volkswagen Jetta: The Practical Compact Sedan
The Jetta is Volkswagen's compact sedan, essentially a Golf with a trunk, long popular for its practicality, efficiency, and value.
Introduced in 1979, the Jetta added a conventional trunk to the Golf platform, appealing to buyers who preferred a traditional sedan shape. It became especially popular in North America, where sedans long outsold hatchbacks.
Across many generations the Jetta has offered efficient turbocharged engines, a roomy trunk, and Volkswagen's solid, refined driving feel at an accessible price. The sporty GLI version adds GTI-style performance in sedan form.
A core volume model, the Jetta has been one of Volkswagen's best-selling cars in the US, valued for blending German driving character with sedan practicality and value.
Frequently asked questions about Volkswagen Jetta
More on the Volkswagen Jetta
Volkswagen doesn't officially say what GLI stands for, even though it spells out GTI as Gran Turismo Injection. The Jetta GLI arrived in the US for 1984 as a "GTI with a trunk," and the 2027 car makes 228 hp with no manual option.
You can still buy a new manual sports car for about $30,000 in 2026, but the list is short. Here's every one that matters, with current prices, ranked by how much more expensive it looks than it is. The Miata and GR86 win, and the reason is proportions.