Volkswagen Jetta Model Years and History

The Jetta and Jetta GLI models transition into 2026 without any significant changes. Minor changes include standard rear-seat pre-tensioners and SE trims now benefit from a standard sunroof. The SEL and the Autobahn trims see themselves updated with a new audio system by Volkswagen.

The Jetta returns for 2025 with minimal changes.

The Jetta returns for 2024 with minimal changes.

The Jetta returns for 2023 with minimal changes.

The Jetta returns for 2022 with a new engine, updated styling and more standard safety features.

The Jetta returns for 2021 with minimal changes.

The Jetta returns for 2019 as the newest edition to Volkswagens MQB platform allowing VW to utilize the same front axle placement, pedal box and engine positioning across all models, despite varying wheelbase, track and external dimensions. With the move to the new platform Jetta now features longer wheelbase, length, and width dimensions despite shedding some weight to become a sub three thousand pound chassis. The familiar 1.4L turbo-charged engine remains the sole power plant although with some tweaking now produces 187 foot-pounds of torque astonishingly early in the powerband providing excellent low-end acceleration. Coupled with a pair of new transmission options, the Jetta now claims 40 mpg highway and 34 mpg combined all the while reducing the starting price to $19,395 for a base S trim model.

The biggest change to the Jetta lineup for 2018 is the addition of a new Wolfsburg Edition. Sitting above the S trim, the Wolfsburg represents a great value in the Jetta lineup, combining lots of options for not a ton of money. Meanwhile, the SE has gotten a new chrome front grill and new wheels as does the SEL.

For 2017, the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid has been discontinued. Elsewhere, the Jetta now features a rearview camera across the range, while the infotainment system has also been upgraded.

The biggest change to the Jetta lineup for 2016 is the addition of a brand new 1.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. With up to 184 foot pounds of torque, the new engine offers a great combination of fuel economy and power with up to 40 mpg available on the highway. Inside, the 2016 Jetta gets a new MIB II infotainment system, with new features such as USB connectivity and better smartphone integration.

For 2015, the Volkswagen Jetta sedan features many subtle updates. Among them, a new 2.0L TDI clean diesel produces 150 horsepower and improves fuel economy from 42 mpg to 46 mpg on the highway, while the model's other engines also have improved efficiency. The front, rear and interior all feature styling enhancements, while new available safety technologies include blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, frontal collision warning, and park distance control. Bi-Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights are available on certain models, and a limited-edition 1.8T Sport trim offers sport suspension, navigation, rearview camera and a rear spoiler.

Volkswagen has given the Jetta several new improvements for 2014. The Jetta Sedan is now available with a 1.8L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and electronic power steering is now standard on SE models and up. Volkswagen has also introduced a new connectivity service dubbed Car-Net, which will be available on selected trims and enable the Jetta to access several security and convenience features. A rearview camera has also been added to TDI Sportwagens.

Following a redesign in 2011, the Jetta sedan sees several changes for 2013. For starters, a hybrid model joins the lineup, due out later in the model year. Volkswagen claims it will return close to 45 mpg on the highway. Across the rest of the Jetta lineup, many interior appointments and options get reshuffled and updated. Jetta S, SE, SEL, TDI and GLI models carry over with various changes. Models from the Jetta S trim with a sunroof and up get a standard adjustable front center armrest. SE and TDI trims get power reclining front seats, metallic trim on the dash and door panels and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, all standard. Both trims also get more exterior chrome on the grille and window seal trim. The SEL receives a 6-way power-adjustable driver's seat with manual lumbar support, as well as a new "soft-touch dash." Launch control is new in GLI models with the optional DSG transmission for 2013, which allows for a perfect launch with controlled wheelspin.

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

The Volkswagen Jetta has been completely redesigned for 2011. Now in its sixth generation, the compact sedan is a diverging from its Golf sister, with a lengthened wheelbase, unique styling and revised mechanicals. S, SE, SEL and TDI diesel Jetta models are offered, with power coming from either a 2.0L 4-cylinder or a 2.5L 5-cylinder. The EPA estimates the 2.0L's fuel economy at 24 mpg city / 34 mpg highway, while the 2.5 gets 1 mpg less in both venues. The TDI version delivers excellent fuel economy--as high as 42 mpg on the highway. The top-level GLI features Volkswagen's 200-hp 2.0L turbocharged engine.

For 2010, the Volkswagen Jetta sees a slight interior and exterior styling upgrade, and two models--the GLI and the SEL wagon--are discontinued. There is a new Wolfsburg Edition, which is available only as a sedan with a turbocharged 200-hp 2.0L 4-cylinder engine. The Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition will be a late addition to the 2010 model year line up and includes features such as unique interior and exterior styling, sport seats and 18-inch wheels.

For 2009, Volkswagen introduces a new Jetta model in the SportWagen and a new engine in the diesel TDI, which will be offered in both sedans and SportWagens. The attractive SportWagen features plenty of room for people and their stuff, while the TDI is a 2.0L 4-cylinder diesel putting out 140 hp and 236 ft-lb of torque. TDI Jettas will be the first cars to meet the world's strictest emissions standards, California's Tier II, Bin 5. The TDI should be good for about 41 mpg on the highway. Volkswagen's electronic stabilization program (ESP) is now standard across the Jetta line.

The 2.0T four-cylinder engine is no longer offered on the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta line, only on the performance-oriented GLI model, but the Jetta's 2.5L five-cylinder engine now gets a 20-horsepower boost in power, to 170 horsepower. The top-of-the-range SEL model is now offered only with an automatic transmission, and Climatronic climate control and leather upholstery are no longer standard on the SEL or the GLI. A power recline feature for the driver's seat is now standard through the Jetta line. For both models Laser Blue is a new color, replaces Shadow Blue in the Jetta's color palette. Wheat Beige has been dropped.

For 2007, the big news for the Volkswagen Jetta is a very noteworthy drop in price. The Jetta's base price is cut $1400 compared with the 2006 model, yet it also has increased standard equipment, including an auxiliary input jack and cruise control. Salsa Red joint the color palette. The diesel-powered TDI models are no longer available for 2007. A Wolfsburg Edition and a Fahrenheit GLI trim are new as well.