Volkswagen is synonymous with trendy cars and sedans with a lot of character. However, Volkswagen now builds large SUVs, pickup trucks and electric vehicles. Despite the updated business model, the German automaker has always focused on hatchbacks and sedans like the venerable Jetta. For used car buyers, a 2018 Volkswagen Jetta is an excellent prospect. So why is the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta one of the best used cars money can buy?
Is the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta a good car?
Simply put, yes, the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta is a good car. The Jetta has a stylish exterior with a spacious cabin and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Edmunds compares that exterior styling and modern cabin to pricier rivals, suggesting the Jetta is a great deal.
The Volkswagen sedan is also equipped as standard with a 1.4L four-cylinder turbo engine with low fuel consumption and usable torque in the mid-range. Consumer Reports (CR) says shoppers could also find the Jetta with a 1.8L turbocharged engine, which owners praised for its good passing ability. In addition, buyers with a need for speed can get a 2018 GLI with a compliant DSG automatic transmission.
Is the Jetta a reliable car?
While CR doesn’t have exact statistics for long-term reliability, some owner satisfaction issues do exist. The owner satisfaction score was two out of five, suggesting that many 2018 model owners were unhappy with the sedan for one reason or another.
Aside from owner satisfaction, there are three recalls for the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta. First, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says fuel system issues increase fire risk. Then there is a brake recall for the Jetta, which can increase the chances of a crash. Finally, a malfunction in the electric steering system can cause the vehicle to roll away if the key is not present and the car is not in park.
How many miles per gallon will a 2018 Volkswagen Jetta get?
The 2018 Volkswagen Jetta gets high marks for fuel economy. The smaller 1.4-litre turbocharged Jetta achieved a commendable 47 mpg at highway speeds and 32 mpg overall. Furthermore, the larger 1.8T engine still gets 30 mpg.
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How much does a 2018 Volkswagen Jetta cost?
Edmunds says the 2018 model adds a lot of value to the table, with an average list price of just $17,233. Considering its admirable fuel economy, generous cabin and contemporary styling for the money, it looks like a steal. Furthermore, CR suggests savvy shoppers can pick up a 2018 Volkswagen Jetta for just $16,925.
Should you buy it?
It’s a challenge to overlook recalls and owner satisfaction ratings. However, Edmunds recommends the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta as one of the best used cars to buy from 2021 Consumer Reports don’t recommend it outright, they celebrate the small car for its styling, engines and space.
If you’re not sold on the Jetta, CR recommends the 2018 Mazda3 and the 2018 Toyota Corolla. Edmunds also says the Corolla joins the Jetta on the list of best used cars. However, if you want a stylish little European sedan with room to spare, consider the Volkswagen Jetta. Scroll down to the next article to read about five of the best used sedans to buy.
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