In the 2022 compact car sector, the Volkswagen Jetta is ranked #12 out of 21 total comparison vehicles. The Jetta costs $1,458 per year to insure, compared to $1,468 for the class average, making the Jetta $10 less expensive per year.
Insurance for a VW Jetta costs $130 more per year than the Honda Civic, $206 more than the Toyota Corolla, $124 more than the Nissan Sentra, and $246 less than the Hyundai Elantra when compared directly to the top-selling vehicles in the small car market.
The average VW Jetta insurance rate is 3.2 percent lower than the national average car insurance rate of $1,506 per year when compared to all vehicles (not just the compact car sector).
The table below compares the average vehicle insurance prices for a Volkswagen Jetta to the whole small car portfolio for the 2022 model year.
Is a Volkswagen expensive to insure?
Volkswagen insurance costs are determined by a number of factors. When establishing insurance premiums, factors such as a driver’s age, location, credit score, and driving history are all taken into account. The year, make, and model of the Volkswagen you drive will also be considered.
Vehicles that are considered safer and include security measures are typically less expensive to insure. Volkswagen is frequently regarded as a vehicle manufacturer that produces safe vehicles. The Volkswagen Jetta, Golf, and Tiguan are among the models that have gotten good safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The average cost of Volkswagen insurance, according to The Zebra, is $1548 per year or $129 per month. This isn’t the cheapest cost out there, but it’s a fair deal when compared to the worth of most Volkswagens. The easiest method to find the perfect insurance provider for you is to collect and compare personalized quotations.
How much is insurance for a 2019 VW Jetta?
A Volkswagen Jetta’s average monthly insurance premium is $159, or $1,908 per year. Depending on your driving record, the number of miles you travel per year, and other considerations, your actual cost could be more or lower. To get a quote, sort automobile insurance firms by state.
The base price of a 2017 Volkswagen Jetta is $17,895. The yearly insurance costtobase car price ratio is 10.7%, with the average insurance rate of $1,908 per year.
Is it expensive to fix Volkswagens?
YourMechanic analyzed data gathered from customers to determine which automobiles are the most and least expensive to maintain. They ranked the average cost of maintenance for the first 10 years of a car’s life, including twice-yearly oil changes, for 30 makes of cars ranging from BMW to Toyota.
Volkswagen came in at #22, with an average cost of $7,800 in maintenance over the first ten years. Ford, Chevrolet, Jeep, and Kia are all more expensive. It costs less than $600 more than Nissan, Mazda, and Honda automobiles.
Are Volkswagen Jettas good cars?
Users save an average of $3,206 with the U.S. News Best Price Program, and a lower price implies reduced monthly leasing payments. On a 36-month lease, this translates to a monthly savings of $90.
Is the Volkswagen Jetta a Good Car?
The Volkswagen Jetta is a great automobile. For a car of its size, it provides plenty of passenger space, as well as sophisticated infotainment systems and excellent fuel economy. Years ago, that would have been sufficient to make this Volkswagen a strong contender in the class. The best compact cars now have agile handling, quick acceleration, and interior quality that approaches luxury. In those areas, the Jetta falls short. Furthermore, while not bad, its safety rating is among the lowest in the class.
To help you determine if the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta is the right new car for you, we reviewed 31 Volkswagen Jetta reviews, as well as dependability scores, fuel economy estimates, and more. This analysis of the 2021 Jetta includes relevant research for all models in this generation, which debuted in 2019.
Since 2007, U.S. News Best Cars has been evaluating and assessing vehicles, and our crew has over 75 years of total automotive experience. To maintain our objectivity, we never take expensive gifts from carmakers, and the adverts on our site are managed by a third-party company.
Should I Buy the Volkswagen Jetta?
The Jetta is a practical, if uninspiring, choice for getting around town in relative comfort. It gets excellent gas mileage and has a spacious back seat and trunk. It’s a good value at roughly $19,000, but active safety features beyond a rearview camera, an automatic transmission, and an improved infotainment system will set you back several hundred to several thousand dollars more. Finally, before opting on this Volkswagen, we recommend looking around the class.
vs. 2021 Volkswagen Jetta: What’s the Difference?
The 2020 Jetta and the 2021 Jetta have a few differences. The SE and SEL trims get a power-adjustable driver’s seat for 2021, while trims with the optional 8-inch touch screen get updated software that improves speech recognition and navigation while also allowing for wireless smartphone connectivity. Finally, the Jetta GLI now offers adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights as options.
- 2019: completely revamped with two new engine options, a more powerful Volkswagen GLI trim, larger touchscreen screens, and a slew of new features.
- Wi-Fi hotspot became standard in 2020, while heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and wireless device charging were added to the SEL trim’s list of standard equipment.
- In 2021, a power-adjustable driver’s seat will be offered in more trims; the infotainment system will be updated, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay will have wireless capabilities as an option. GLI Autobahn now has more active safety features.
If you’re thinking about buying an older model, check out our reviews for the 2018 Jetta, 2019 Jetta, and 2020 Jetta. Also, see our Best New Car Deals and Best New Car Lease Deals sites for information on how to save money on vehicles like a new Jetta.
How Much Does the Volkswagen Jetta Cost?
The starting price for the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta is $18,995, which is slightly less than normal for a standard compact car. However, that is for a manual-transmission Jetta; the cheapest automatic Jetta is $19,795. Higher trim levels cost a few thousand dollars more, up to $28,045 for the SEL Premium.
The performance-oriented 2021 Jetta GLI is priced between $26,345 and $31,545. The GLI is available in two trim levels, each with a manual or automatic transmission.
For excellent savings at your local Volkswagen dealer, check out our U.S. News Best Price Program. Our Volkswagen offers page also has some great manufacturer incentives.
Volkswagen Jetta Versus the Competition
The Volkswagen GTI is technically a trim of the Volkswagen Golf, despite the fact that we dedicated a full review to it. Thanks to dexterous handling and a snappy 228-horsepower engine, the Golf GTI is one of the most fun-to-drive cars in the class. This is the same turbo-four engine that powers the Jetta GLI. The GTI has a more luxurious cabin than the Golf, and it has a lot of baggage space thanks to its hatchback design. The Golf GTI is also one of the priciest cars in the class, costing several thousand dollars more than the equivalent Jetta GLI. However, if you value performance above everything else, the former is a no-brainer.
In almost every manner, the Honda Civic outperforms the VW Jetta. The Civic comes in sedan and hatchback body types, and it comes with a variety of engine choices. Most budgets and priorities have a configuration. The Civic comes with a stylish interior, a sporty ride, and a long range of standard driver aid systems. The Jetta’s infotainment system is more user-friendly, but that isn’t enough to recommend it over the Civic.
Jetta Interior: Functional but Not So Flashy
The trunk space of the Volkswagen Jetta is 14.1 cubic feet. That’s a lot of space when compared to comparable sedans in the compact car class. The 60/40 split back seats fold down, but not completely flat on the trunk floor. That implies you can transport longer objects, but bulkier freight may be harder to fit. The trunk hinges also sink into the space a little, despite the fact that the trunk is wide and deep.
The Jetta sedan has a seating capacity of five persons. In all seats, there’s plenty of head- and legroom, making this VW one of the roomiest cars in the class. Legroom in the back seats is especially impressive. Although the front chairs are adequate, you may desire for greater support.
For the Jetta’s rear outboard seats, there are two complete sets of LATCH connectors and a tether anchor, as well as a tether anchor for the rear middle seat. For its ease of use, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rated this arrangement the second-highest rating of Acceptable. Because the bottom anchors are exposed in the plastic surroundings rather than buried in the seat cushions, they are easier to locate, although they can be difficult to move around.
The majority of the cabin materials in the Jetta are of good quality and pleasant to the touch. However, the car lacks the upmarket feel of certain class competitors due to obvious tougher plastics on frequent-contact surfaces like as the doors and center console.
A 6.5-inch touch-screen infotainment system is standard on the 2021 VW Jetta. Although the monitor is on the tiny side for a new car, the interface is simple and easy to use. Physical knobs and controls are clearly labeled and arranged in a logical manner. Standard smartphone mirroring such as Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and others add a level of convenience.
Higher trim levels have an 8-inch touch screen with the latest MIB3 software. As a result, processing times are reduced and speech recognition and navigation performance are improved. Wireless App-Connect smartphone integration is also possible with this setup.
- A 6.5-inch touch screen, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, two USB ports, and a four-speaker audio are among the standard infotainment features.
- An 8-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless device charging, satellite radio, GPS, a six-speaker stereo, and an eight-speaker BeatsAudio stereo are among the available infotainment features.
- An auto-dimming rearview mirror, a universal garage door opener, a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, proximity keyless entry, remote start, and interior ambient lighting are all possible options.
Jetta Performance: You Won’t Be Jetting Around
A 1.4-liter turbocharged engine with 147 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque is standard on the VW Jetta. If you think the horsepower figure is low, you’re right. There’s enough muscle for smooth acceleration from a standstill, but as you approach greater speeds, power starts to fade. The Jetta might be sluggish while merging or passing on freeways.
The transmission options include a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic, both of which are excellent. The manual provides you more control over the engine’s power and makes the car feel more compelling. When you step on the pedal hard, the automatic shifts smoothly and quickly, and it doesn’t hesitate to downshift.
If you want more power, the Jetta GLI has a 2.0-liter turbo engine that produces 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It kicks a lot harder right away and has plenty of passing power while you’re traveling quickly. Instead of the optional eight-speed automatic transmission found on the basic model, GLI versions have a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic with paddle shifters for increased engagement.
With the base four-cylinder engine and either transmission, the Jetta gets 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the interstate, according to the EPA. Those are excellent figures for a small car. In the city, the GLI is expected to get 25 miles per gallon. You can get 33 mpg highway with the manual transmission and 32 mpg highway with the automatic transmission.
This Volkswagen isn’t extremely sporty. There’s minimal steering feel or road feedback, and the handling isn’t very spectacular. Rather, the emphasis is on ride comfort. Over bumps and uneven pavement, the Jetta drives easily and confidently.
The suspension on the Jetta GLI has been retuned for additional sportiness and confidence around turns. However, it makes little compromises in terms of ride quality, providing a solid and composed ride.
Jetta Reliability
The expected reliability score for the 2021 Jetta is 76 out of 100. A predicted dependability score of 91-100 is considered the best, 81-90 is considered great, 70-80 is considered acceptable, and 0-69 is considered fair and below average, according to J.D. Power.
Volkswagen offers a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty on the Jetta.
Jetta Safety
The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta received a five-star overall safety certification from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In the side crash test, the Jetta received five stars, and in the frontal crash and rollover tests, it received four stars.
In all six crashworthiness tests, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety earned the 2021 Jetta the highest rating of Good. For forward visibility, models with automatic high-beam headlights obtained the second-lowest grade of Marginal, while those without received the lowest rating of Poor.
Collision avoidance features are graded on a distinct scale by the IIHS. The optional front accident prevention system on the Jetta received the highest rating of Superior.
Which Volkswagen Jetta Model Is Right for Me?
The Volkswagen Jetta is available in five trim levels for 2021: S, SE, R-Line, SEL, and SEL Premium. A 1.4-liter turbocharged engine and front-wheel drive are standard on all models. A six-speed manual transmission comes standard, with an eight-speed automatic transmission available as an option.
The SE model adds synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, and various active safety systems, so it’s worth upgrading. The greatest infotainment is found in the SEL trim, which includes a bigger touch screen, the Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, wireless device charging, and an enhanced sound.
The Jetta GLI is a high-performance model. It has a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and comes in S and Autobahn trim levels.
The price of the Volkswagen Jetta S in 2021 starts at $18,995. Cloth upholstery and a 6.5-inch touch-screen infotainment system with a Wi-Fi hotspot, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, two USB ports, and a four-speaker radio are included as standard equipment.
An automatic transmission is available for an additional $800. Forward collision warning, automated emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and heated outside mirrors are all included in the $500 Driver Assistance package.
The Volkswagen Jetta SE starts at $22,895 and includes an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment. V-Tex synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, proximity keyless entry, heated exterior mirrors, and a rear-seat center armrest are all included in this specification level. Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert are among the safety features included.
A heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and remote start are included in the $500 Cold Weather package.
The manual transmission Jetta R-Line costs $22,795 while the automatic transmission costs $23,595. It has many of the same features as the SE, but it also has unique exterior features including fog lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an improved differential.
The automatic transmission-only Jetta SEL comes standard with a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, remote start, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and interior ambient lighting for a starting price of $25,745. An 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless device charging, an eight-speaker BeatsAudio audio, and satellite radio are also included. Rain-sensing windshield wipers, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights are among the additional driver assistance features.
Genuine leather upholstery, front sport seats, GPS, and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory settings are included in the $28,045 Jetta SEL Premium.
The base MSRP for the Volkswagen Jetta GLI S is $26,345. The manual transmission is standard, and an optional $800 seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters is available. Performance front brakes, a sport steering wheel, stainless steel pedal covers, leather upholstery, a six-speaker audio, and the 6.5-inch touch screen are just a few of the features available. Rain-sensing windshield wipers, forward collision warning, automated emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert are all standard safety features.
The GLI Autobahn, the top-of-the-line model, starts at $30,745. An adaptive damping suspension, a sunroof, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, genuine leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a BeatsAudio stereo, an 8-inch touch screen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, satellite radio, and wireless device charging are among the extra features available on this trim.
The GLI Autobahn is equipped with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlamps, all of which are new for 2021.
The Final Call
The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta has reasonable passenger room, a fuel-efficient base engine, and user-friendly technology, but it falls short of many of its compact car rivals in terms of performance, cabin quality, and safety ratings.
Take our word for it, but don’t take our word for it. Take a look at some of the reviews that inform our rankings and research.
- “While the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta looks and feels more than a $20,000 sedan, owners of prior models may find the seventh-generation VW sedan a little too comfortable and smooth.” Autotrader.com
- “The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a cost-effective and fuel-efficient compact car. It is less expensive and consumes less fuel than its hatchback sister, the VW Golf, which is mechanically similar. The regular Jetta will satisfy pragmatists, but it lacks the driving excitement that will fascinate aficionados.” Automobile and Driver
- “The Jetta compact sedan from Volkswagen has never been better. The technology and safety features are cutting-edge, and the driving abilities are sophisticated yet dynamic. Two further great characteristics are the amount of space and the level of comfort. The costs are also fair.” Kelley Blue Book (2020)
Is a Volkswagen a good vehicle?
Breakdown of Volkswagen Reliability Ratings. Volkswagen’s Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, putting it in 12th place out of 32 car brands. This score is based on an average of 345 different models. A Volkswagen’s average yearly repair cost is $676, indicating that it has higher-than-average ownership expenditures.
How many miles can a Volkswagen Jetta last?
When properly maintained, the VW Jetta has been known to last more than 200,000 miles. Because most drivers put 10,000 miles on their automobiles each year, a car with 200,000 miles on the odometer is likely over 20 years old. Professional auto repair from a VW-certified service shop is the greatest way to extend the mileage life of your VW.
What is high mileage for a Volkswagen Jetta?
The VW Jetta is noted for its dependability and ability to clock up a lot of miles. When properly maintained, the VW Jetta can easily run for more than 200,000 miles. Before upgrading to a new model with the latest amenities, most VW Jetta owners drive their cars for 7 and a half years, or roughly 75,000 miles.
What is the life expectancy of a Volkswagen Jetta?
The majority of VW Jetta owners keep their vehicles for an average of seven and a half years, although the VW Jetta has a life expectancy of over 20 years and 200,000 miles. To get the most mileage out of your new Jetta, stick to the factory-recommended maintenance schedule and keep your car well-maintained with frequent oil changes.
Do Jettas have alot of problems?
All major dependability assessments have given the Volkswagen Jetta an above-average rating. The sedan receives a 4.0 out of 5.0 rating from RepairPal, placing it 21st out of 36 compact automobiles.
The Jetta has average ownership expenditures of $609 per year for maintenance and repairs, compared to $652 for most vehicle types. This model has a frequency of 0.3 unplanned repairs per year, with a 10% chance of having a major issue, compared to an average of 11% for compact automobiles.
Why are Volkswagen so cheap?
It all goes back to the beginning of Volkswagen’s history. Though we won’t go into detail here, Volkswagen was formed with the goal of producing a practical, well-designed vehicle that could be purchased by the common person. This is how the Volkswagen brand was born, which stands for “Folks’ Wagon” or “People’s Car.” The automobiles were designed to be high-quality while remaining inexpensive, and they succeeded.
In the many years since its inception, Volkswagen has remained committed to the premise that the general public requires a good car: one that is well-made, pleasant, and affordable. That is why Volkswagen automobiles are still so reasonably priced today.
Why are other German brands more expensive?
Volkswagen vehicles are not inexpensive, but they are reasonably priced for the value they provide. Customers of Volkswagen place a premium on longevity and high-quality engineering, and they are uninterested in the extravagance of other German brands.
Unlike those premium brands that compete in the top-tier pricing ranges of most German-made automobiles, Volkswagen competes in a market category with a lot of competition from domestic and other manufacturers.
Rather than depending on extravagant luxury and technology baubles, as well as inflated brand cache, they have thrived by supplying excellent German engineering at affordable rates, earning them a reputation for exceptional value.
Are Volkswagen vehicles cheaper in Germany or in the U.S.?
Surprisingly, identically equipped Volkswagen automobiles in the United States are less expensive than in Germany. However, Volkswagen offers affordable automobiles in Germany that are not available in the United States. The VW Polo and the VW Up are two of them, with the latter starting at only 9,975 euros. While Germans produce and utilize inexpensive automobiles, they don’t appear to enjoy selling them across the Atlantic.