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"Used Volkswagen Jetta Overview And Best Price Buying Advice"
Potential used Volkswagen Jetta buyers can use this information to help focus in on particular models as well as learn how to then buy the vehicle at the best possible price ... and yes, even at wholesale.
We just happen to love Jettas ... particularly the turbo and VR6, although we like them all. And having driven many, frankly, we think of them as sort of a "cheaper" BMW, meant in a very positive way. Just an outstanding drive with excellent handling and plenty of oomph.
As Edmunds.com put it, "The Jetta offers a near ideal balance between ride and handling, and premium cabin materials make it one of our top recommendations to small-car buyers".
Actually, beginning with the 2005 model, the Jetta has been enlarged from a compact car to a midsize.
This new generation of Jetta (the fifth in this vehicle's long and successful run), has produced a ride that is smooth and quiet, yet still quite performance capable. There's now plenty of room for passengers in the back seat and the fit and finish of the interior features will definitely give you a "premium" feel.
The Value Edition and 2.5 models are powered by a 150 horsepower 2.5 liter incline 5-cylinder engine. This is a significant improvement from earlier base models, sell new for around $20,000, and are still very well equipped. For better gas mileage, the TDI trim has a 100 horsepower 1.9 liter diesel engine which boosts mpg into the 30's.
Stepping up to the 2.0T or GLI definitely increases the "fun factor". Both are powered by a direct-injected 200 horsepower, turbocharged 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine with quite amazing torque band, while still getting better fuel economy than the base engine. However, it's the tighter suspension and quicker steering provided in the GLI that really makes better use of the turbo engine.
It should be noted that for the 2008 model year, Jetta models were changed to S, SE, Wolfsburg (with the 2.0T engine) and SEL choices. Power in the base engine was boosted to 170 horses, while the GLI became a seperate model. Also, more standard equipment was added for 2009 (including stability control, heated seats and heated washer nozzles) and also improved the optional navigation system.
The 2009 model year also provided the only opportunity for getting the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine in the Sportwagen (with the SEL trim), while for 2010 Volkswagen upgraded the interior and also offered the sport-tuned TDI Cup "Street" Edition.
We're big fans of the earlier models as well. The fourth generation Jetta, sold from 1999 to 2005, was slightly smaller and perhaps the best looking of the Jettas (having been produced since 1980) with its more edgy styling.
Throughout this production run, front seat-mounted side airbags were standard, while full-length side curtain airbags were added in 2001.
Like its follower, this generation is an extremely entertaining car to drive with top-notch build and feature quality. However, the base 2.0-liter engine during this generation was not particularly lively and offered only average fuel efficiency. Because of this, we feel Jettas equipped with the very capable turbocharged 1.8T four-cylinder make a better choice. This engine was available in the sedan beginning with the 2000 model year and in the wagon beginning with the 2002 model.
Also of note for used Jetta shoppers, power on the 1.8T was increased from 150 hp to 180 hp in 2002. And for those wanting still more, the VR6 engine was available initially with 174 horses and then boosted to 200 for the 2002 model year. For 2004 and later, the sportier Jetta GLI, with its firmer suspension and sport-biased body revisions, also was offered with this engine. GLI models can also be found equipped with the 180-hp 1.8T engine.
The Jetta TDI diesel sedan was also available throughout this run and the diesel wagon was produced for the 2002 - 2005 model years. The power output of the 1.9-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder was increased to 100 hp and 177 pound-feet of torque for 2004 (from 90 hp and 155 pound-feet).
Overall, the Jetta has been, and remains, one of our favorites ... just alot of features and great performance for the money. And it's no wonder it's the best selling VW in the United States.
We can also make some suggestions to help you save money if you are thinking about buying one.
How To Buy A Used Volkswagen Jetta At The Best Price:
There are actually several different ways to buy a used Jetta at the lowest price and even at wholesale, depending on which method personally fits you best.
ONE - Car Auctions:
First, you can check for used Jettas at public car auctions in your own area. This article covers how to locate these auctions and the key issues in using them to your advantage. While this method isn't for everyone and will likely take some additional time and effort on your part, there are indeed some truly outstanding buys for those who shop these auction events.
TWO - Spot Wholesale Opportunities On Dealer Lots:
Another excellent method involves getting several used car dealers to compete for your business. This article details the best way to carry out this process. It's just amazing what happens to prices when true competition takes place.
Also ...
If You're Interested In A "Brand New" Jetta, there are some great deals to be had right now if you know how.
