# Volkswagen Jetta specs and mpg by year

- **Latest year:** 2027
- **MPG (combined):** 33-34
- **Drive:** FWD
- **Years covered:** 2015-2027

## Quick answer

The 2027 Volkswagen Jetta is a compact car rated at 33-34 mpg combined. Engines: 1.5L 4-cyl turbo.

## Every 2027 Volkswagen Jetta version

| Version | Engine | Drive | Transmission | City/Hwy | Combined | Fuel cost / year | CO2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Jetta | 1.5L 4-cyl turbo | FWD | Automatic | 29/40 | 34 mpg | $1,950 | 265 g/mi |
| Jetta Sport/SE/SEL | 1.5L 4-cyl turbo | FWD | Automatic | 29/40 | 33 mpg | $2,050 | 271 g/mi |

Each row is a version the EPA tested. Fuel cost assumes 15,000 miles a year (55% city) at national average prices; CO2 is tailpipe emissions.

## Volkswagen Jetta specs by year

| Year | Engines | Transmission | Drive | MPG (combined) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2027 | 1.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | FWD | 33-34 |
| 2026 | 1.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | FWD | 33-34 |
| 2025 | 1.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | FWD | 33 |
| 2024 | 1.5L 4-cyl turbo | Manual, Automatic | FWD | 33-34 |
| 2023 | 1.5L 4-cyl turbo | Manual, Automatic | FWD | 33-35 |
| 2022 | 1.5L 4-cyl turbo | Manual, Automatic | FWD | 33-35 |
| 2021 | 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 1.4L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic, Manual | FWD | 28-34 |
| 2020 | 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 1.4L 4-cyl turbo | Manual, Automatic | FWD | 28-34 |
| 2019 | 1.4L 4-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic, Manual | FWD | 28-34 |
| 2018 | 1.4L 4-cyl turbo; 1.8L 4-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic, Manual | FWD | 27-33 |
| 2017 | 1.4L 4-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 1.8L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic, Manual | FWD | 27-33 |
| 2016 | 1.8L 4-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 1.4L 4-cyl turbo hybrid; 1.4L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic, Manual | FWD | 27-44 |
| 2015 | 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo diesel; 2.0L 4-cyl; 1.8L 4-cyl turbo; 1.4L 4-cyl turbo hybrid | Automatic, Manual | FWD | 26-44 |

EPA combined ratings. MPGe is the EPA efficiency measure for electric cars. Ranges cover every engine and drivetrain EPA tested for that year.

## How has the Jetta changed over the years?

- **2026:** combined mpg went from 33 to 33-34.
- **2025:** combined mpg went from 33-34 to 33.
- **2024:** combined mpg went from 33-35 to 33-34.
- **2022:** added 1.5L 4-cyl turbo; dropped 2.0L 4-cyl turbo and 1.4L 4-cyl turbo.
- **2019:** dropped 1.8L 4-cyl turbo.
- **2017:** dropped 1.4L 4-cyl turbo hybrid.
- **2016:** added 1.4L 4-cyl turbo; dropped 2.0L 4-cyl turbo diesel and 2.0L 4-cyl.

## What does it cost to run a Jetta?

The EPA puts the 2027 Volkswagen Jetta's fuel cost at **$1,950-$2,050 a year**, against about $2,148 for other current compact car: roughly 7% less. Over five years at 15,000 miles a year that is about $10,000 in fuel.

## Jetta vs rivals

| Model | Powertrains | Fuel economy | Range | Fuel cost / year |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Toyota Corolla](/vehicles/toyota-corolla) | Gas, Hybrid | 22-50 mpg | -- | $1,350-$3,750 |
| [Lexus UX](/vehicles/lexus-ux) | Hybrid | 42-43 mpg | -- | $1,550-$1,600 |
| [Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class](/vehicles/mercedes-benz-cla-class) | Electric, Gas, Hybrid | 23-33 mpg | 374 mi | $600-$3,550 |
| [BMW 3 Series](/vehicles/bmw-3-series) | Hybrid | 29-31 mpg | -- | $2,650-$2,850 |
| [Mercedes-Benz C-Class](/vehicles/mercedes-benz-c-class) | Hybrid | 22-29 mpg | -- | $2,850-$3,750 |
| [Cadillac CT4](/vehicles/cadillac-ct4) | Gas | 18-26 mpg | -- | $3,150-$4,550 |
| [Genesis G70](/vehicles/genesis-g70) | Gas | 19-24 mpg | -- | $3,400-$4,350 |
| [Lexus IS](/vehicles/lexus-is) | Gas | 22 mpg | -- | $3,750 |

Other current compact car from other makes, most efficient first.

## Volkswagen Jetta problems owners report most

| System (NHTSA category) | Complaints |
| --- | --- |
| Electrical System | 338 |
| Engine | 324 |
| Power Train | 254 |
| Service Brakes | 158 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 138 |
| Air Bags | 78 |
| Steering | 72 |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 56 |

From 1,397 complaints filed with NHTSA for 2015-2026 models. Most-complained-about model year: **2019**.

## Guides for common Volkswagen Jetta problems

- **Electrical** (338 complaints): [Why does my car battery keep dying](/symptoms/car-battery-keeps-dying) - [Why are my headlights flickering](/symptoms/headlights-flickering) - [Why won't my car start](/symptoms/car-wont-start) - [alternator replacement cost](/cost/alternator-replacement) - [car battery replacement cost](/cost/car-battery-replacement) - [starter replacement cost](/cost/starter-replacement)
- **Engine** (324 complaints): [Why is my car idling rough](/symptoms/rough-idle) - [Why is my engine knocking](/symptoms/engine-knocking-noise) - [Why is my car leaking oil](/symptoms/car-leaking-oil) - [engine replacement cost](/cost/engine-replacement) - [timing chain replacement cost](/cost/timing-chain-replacement) - [valve cover gasket replacement cost](/cost/valve-cover-gasket-replacement)
- **Transmission and drivetrain** (254 complaints): [Why is my transmission slipping](/symptoms/transmission-slipping) - [Why won't my car go into gear](/symptoms/car-wont-go-into-gear) - [Why does my car jerk when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-jerks-when-accelerating) - [transmission replacement cost](/cost/transmission-replacement) - [transmission fluid change cost](/cost/transmission-fluid-change) - [clutch replacement cost](/cost/clutch-replacement)
- **Brake** (158 complaints): [Why are my brakes squeaking](/symptoms/squeaky-brakes) - [Why do my brakes make a grinding noise](/symptoms/brake-grinding-noise) - [Why does my brake pedal go to the floor](/symptoms/brake-pedal-goes-to-floor) - [brake pad replacement cost](/cost/brake-pad-replacement) - [brake rotor replacement cost](/cost/brake-rotor-replacement) - [brake caliper replacement cost](/cost/brake-caliper-replacement)
- **Fuel and propulsion** (138 complaints): [Why does my car stall while driving](/symptoms/car-stalls-while-driving) - [Why does my car lose power when accelerating](/symptoms/car-loses-power-when-accelerating) - [Why does my car hesitate when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-hesitates-when-accelerating)

## Volkswagen Jetta warning lights

- [Jetta: Check engine light](/warning-lights/check-engine/volkswagen-jetta): 110 complaints
- [Jetta: Airbag (SRS) warning light](/warning-lights/airbag/volkswagen-jetta): 35 complaints
- [Jetta: Coolant temperature warning light](/warning-lights/coolant-temperature/volkswagen-jetta): 22 complaints
- [Jetta: Brake warning light](/warning-lights/brake/volkswagen-jetta): 14 complaints
- [Jetta: Oil pressure warning light](/warning-lights/oil-pressure/volkswagen-jetta): 14 complaints
- [Jetta: Power steering warning light](/warning-lights/power-steering/volkswagen-jetta): 13 complaints
- [Jetta: ABS warning light](/warning-lights/abs/volkswagen-jetta): 10 complaints
- [Jetta: Tire pressure (TPMS) light](/warning-lights/tire-pressure/volkswagen-jetta): 9 complaints

## Volkswagen Jetta recalls (32)

| Campaign | Model years | Component | Reported |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [26V185000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V185000) | 2025 | Electrical System:  Instrument Cluster/Panel | 2026-03-25 |
| [26V138000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V138000) | 2025-2026 | Electrical System: Wiring | 2026-03-11 |
| [24V110000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V110000) | 2019-2020 | Fuel System, Gasoline | 2024-02-14 |
| [23V619000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V619000) | 2019 | Electrical System:  Instrument Cluster/Panel | 2023-09-06 |
| [23V604000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V604000) | 2019-2020 | Electrical System: Ignition | 2023-08-30 |
| [22V815000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V815000) | 2019-2020 | Tires: Pressure Monitoring And Regulating Systems | 2022-10-31 |
| [22V514000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V514000) | 2021-2022 | Back Over Prevention:  Sensing System | 2022-07-20 |
| [21V492000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V492000) | 2020-2021 | Air Bags:  Air Bag/Restraint Control Module | 2021-06-30 |
| [21V038000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V038000) | 2021 | Seats | 2021-02-01 |
| [20V716000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V716000) | 2021 | Back Over Prevention:  Sensing System | 2020-11-18 |
| [20V648000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V648000) | 2016-2018 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Fuel Injection System | 2020-10-21 |
| [20E064000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20E064000) | 2015-2018 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Foundation Components | 2020-09-23 |
| [20V505000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V505000) | 2020 | Seats | 2020-08-26 |
| [20V359000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V359000) | 2020 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Foundation Components | 2020-06-17 |
| [19V879000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V879000) | 2019 | Wheels | 2019-12-11 |
| [19V679000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V679000) | 2015-2019 | Unknown Or Other | 2019-09-25 |
| [19V615000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V615000) | 2015-2018 | Electrical System: Ignition | 2019-08-22 |
| [19V188000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V188000) | 2019 | Suspension: Rear | 2019-03-06 |
| [19V110000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=19V110000) | 2019 | Air Bags: Frontal | 2019-02-20 |
| [18V904000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V904000) | 2019 | Suspension: Rear | 2018-12-19 |
| [18V824000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V824000) | 2019 | Electrical System:  Instrument Cluster/Panel | 2018-11-26 |
| [18V671000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V671000) | 2019 | Exterior Lighting: Headlights | 2018-09-26 |
| [17V352000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=17V352000) | 2017 | Equipment: Other | 2017-05-31 |
| [17V137000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=17V137000) | 2017 | Equipment: Other | 2017-03-02 |
| [17V136000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=17V136000) | 2017 | Equipment: Other | 2017-03-02 |

Showing the 25 most recent of 32. Recall repairs are free at any Volkswagen dealer. Check your VIN at [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). Data as of 2026-11-04.

## Frequently asked questions

### What mpg does the 2027 Volkswagen Jetta get?

The 2027 Volkswagen Jetta is EPA-rated at 33-34 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain. Real-world mileage varies with speed, climate and load.

### What engine does the 2027 Volkswagen Jetta have?

The 2027 Volkswagen Jetta comes with: 1.5L 4-cyl turbo. It uses automatic transmission and is offered with FWD.

### Is there a hybrid Volkswagen Jetta?

Yes. The Volkswagen Jetta has been offered as a hybrid in some model years; the table above shows which.

### Which Volkswagen Jetta year gets the best gas mileage?

In the EPA data, the 2016 Volkswagen Jetta has the highest combined rating, up to 44 mpg. Ratings for the same model can change between years when engines or test procedures change.

### How much does it cost to fuel a 2027 Volkswagen Jetta for a year?

About $1,950-$2,050 a year, using the EPA's assumptions of 15,000 miles (55% city, 45% highway) at national average fuel prices. Your cost depends on your local prices, mileage and driving style.

### What is the city and highway mpg of the 2027 Volkswagen Jetta?

The most efficient 2027 version, the Jetta, is rated 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway (34 combined). Other engines and drivetrains are rated lower; the versions table above lists each one.

### How much CO2 does the 2027 Volkswagen Jetta emit?

EPA rates its tailpipe CO2 at 265-271 grams per mile depending on version. Lower is better; the cleanest gas cars sit under 250 g/mi and electric cars have none at the tailpipe.

### Is the Volkswagen Jetta cheap to run compared with other compact cars?

Yes, cheaper than average: its EPA annual fuel cost of $1,950-$2,050 compares with about $2,148 for other current compact car models. Fuel is only part of running costs; insurance, tires and repairs also differ.

### How many recalls does the Volkswagen Jetta have?

NHTSA lists 32 recalls for 2015-2026 Volkswagen Jetta models as of 2026-11-04, the latest reported 2026-03-25 (26V185000). Recall work is free; enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see which apply to your car.

### What is the most common problem with the Volkswagen Jetta?

In NHTSA owner complaints the most-reported category is electrical system, followed by engine. The 2019 model year has the most complaints (552), partly because complaint counts follow sales volume.

## Sources

- [fueleconomy.gov (US DOE and EPA)](https://www.fueleconomy.gov/)
- [NHTSA: Vehicle safety complaints and recalls (api.nhtsa.gov)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa-datasets-and-apis)

## All Volkswagen cars

- [Volkswagen GLI](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/volkswagen-gli)
- [Volkswagen Golf/GTI](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/volkswagen-golf-gti)

## More Volkswagen models

- [Volkswagen Atlas](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/volkswagen-atlas)
- [Volkswagen ID.4](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/volkswagen-id-4)
- [Volkswagen Taos](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/volkswagen-taos)
- [Volkswagen Tiguan](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/volkswagen-tiguan)
- [Volkswagen Arteon](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/volkswagen-arteon): discontinued
- [Volkswagen Passat](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/volkswagen-passat): discontinued

## Other compact cars

- [Volvo S60](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/volvo-s60)
- [Acura ILX](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/acura-ilx)
- [Acura TLX](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/acura-tlx)
- [Audi A4](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-a4)
- [Audi RS e-tron](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-rs-e-tron)
- [Audi S e-tron](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-s-e-tron)
- [Audi S4](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/audi-s4)
- [BMW 3 Series](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/bmw-3-series)

## Compared with

- [Cadillac CT4](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/cadillac-ct4)
- [Genesis G70](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/genesis-g70)
- [Lexus IS](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/lexus-is)
- [Lexus UX](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/lexus-ux)
- [Mercedes-Benz C-Class](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mercedes-benz-c-class)
- [Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mercedes-benz-cla-class)
- [Toyota Corolla](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-corolla)
- [Toyota Mirai](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-mirai)

## Car care

- [How long do tires last?](https://diagxcar.com/how-long/tires)
- [How often to change oil](https://diagxcar.com/how-often/change-oil)
- [Tire size calculator](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-size-calculator)

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Source page: https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/volkswagen-jetta
Updated: 2026-11-03
General information, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic.