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2018 Volkswagen Jetta Review: Reliable Small German Sedan With Some Higher Ownership Costs

Rating: 4.75
Based on 57 Owner Reviews β–Ά
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The Volkswagen Jetta has a long history as a reliable and practical compact sedan. The 2018 model year continues this tradition. Available as a four-door sedan, the 2018 Jetta was offered in trims like S, SE, Wolfsburg Edition, SEL, and GLI. Known for its German engineering, comfortable ride, and spacious interior, the Jetta's affordability and fuel efficiency contribute to its popularity. Pricing typically ranged from the low $19,000s to the mid $20,000s when new.
The Good

The 2018 Jetta offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior appealing to practical buyers. Its fuel efficiency is a definite plus. Performance is adequate for daily driving. The Jetta's classic German design and available sporty GLI trim offer a touch of emotional appeal. Overall, it represents good value for a well-rounded compact sedan.

The Bad

The 2018 Jetta's base engine can feel underpowered. Some owners report issues with the infotainment system. Material quality in the cabin is adequate but not premium. The rear seats don't fold completely flat. Be sure to check for any history of transmission issues, especially with the automatic.

2018 Volkswagen Jetta: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 1.4L TSI Turbocharged Inline-4: (S, SE, SEL, Wolfsburg Edition)
    • 2.0L TSI Turbocharged Inline-4: (GLI)
  • Horsepower:
    • 1.4L TSI: 150 hp
    • 2.0L TSI: 210 hp
  • Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
    • 1.4L TSI: Up to 28 mpg city / 40 mpg highway
    • 2.0L TSI: Up to 24 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times:
    • 1.4L TSI: Around 8.0 seconds
    • 2.0L TSI: Around 6.8 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • S: Cloth seats, rearview camera, touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth.
    • SE: Leatherette seats, sunroof, keyless access, blind-spot monitoring.
    • Wolfsburg Edition: Sporty styling, unique wheels, upgraded interior trim.
    • SEL: Navigation, premium audio system, adaptive cruise control, automatic climate control.
    • GLI: Sport suspension, performance brakes, sport seats, aggressive styling.

2018 Volkswagen Jetta Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2018
Make Volkswagen
Model Jetta
Trim -
Style -
Type Sedan
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Mexico
Manufacturing City PUEBLA
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 1.8 TSI
Engine Size 2.5L
Engine Cylinders 5
Transmission 6 Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
Check
Theft
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Open Lien
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta Have?

The 2018 Volkswagen Jetta has some commonly reported issues. Some owners have experienced problems with the infotainment system, including freezing, lagging, or connectivity issues. Transmission problems, particularly with the automatic transmission, have also been reported, though not widespread. Another area of concern can be the turbocharger in the 1.4L engine, so it's important to check for any unusual noises or performance issues.
Recalls can vary, so it's crucial to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any active recalls related to the specific VIN. Some potential recall areas have included fuel leaks and electrical issues.
Long-term reliability largely depends on maintenance. Neglecting scheduled servicing can lead to issues down the line. Check the vehicle's service history. The 2018 model year itself hasn't shown significantly more problems than other years in this generation, but pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always recommended.

How long will the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta last?

With regular maintenance, a 2018 Volkswagen Jetta can easily reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles, potentially lasting 10-15 years. Proper oil changes, timely replacement of wear items (brakes, tires), and addressing any warning lights promptly are key. The turbocharged engines are generally durable if maintained well, but oil leaks can become a concern over time. Also, keep an eye on the condition of rubber components like hoses and belts as they age. The interior trim, while functional, may show wear and tear with extended use. Overall, it's a reasonably durable car with consistent care.
Positive Owner Reviews
David
The bright red vehicle really stood out and only having 4,600 miles on a 2018 made it literally a brand new purchase. Being certified preowned, I have the confidence that this car will last a long time for me.
VW Fan
Reliable, sporty, fuel efficient and more. It's a nice care for the money, and the newer models have a great look to them. Highly recommend.
Suzanne Roger
Two great extra features that I would recommend.The Jetta SE automatic and also the stick shift feature help when entering on the freeway The back up noise and light feature is another safety feature that I rely on whendriving daily.
Negative Owner Reviews
buyatoyota
before it looked old , now ,,, well just its,,BUTT UGLY just as noise as the last jettas ,m uderpowered if need more power going to cost more

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2018 Volkswagen Jetta comes with a decent array of tech and safety features. Standard features include a touchscreen infotainment system (size varies by trim), Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trims add features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a larger touchscreen display, navigation, and a premium audio system.
Driver-assistance features were available, especially on higher trims, and include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features enhance safety and convenience.
Safety is a strong point. The 2018 Jetta received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Check the specific ratings on their respective websites for detailed information, as ratings can vary slightly depending on the specific test and model configuration.
The infotainment system, while functional, wasn't the most advanced in its class and could be slow to respond at times. However, the overall feature set provides a good balance of technology and safety for its price point.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Uni
Pure White
Platinum Gray Metallic
Silk Blue Metallic
Cardinal Red Metallic
White Silver Metallic
Deep Black Pearl
Interior Colors
Titan Black Cloth
Cornsilk Beige Cloth
Titan Black Leatherette
Cornsilk Beige Leatherette

2018 Volkswagen Jetta Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta had an MSRP ranging from around $19,000 to $27,000, depending on the trim and options. As a used car, prices now typically range from $10,000 to $18,000, influenced by mileage, condition, and trim level. The Jetta has experienced moderate depreciation. Factors impacting resale value include overall condition, maintenance records, accident history, and the specific trim. Lower mileage examples in excellent condition command higher prices. The GLI trim, due to its sporty nature, tends to hold its value better than the base trims.

2018 Volkswagen Jetta Cost of Ownership

The 2018 Volkswagen Jetta is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate. Fuel efficiency is a strong point, especially with the 1.4L engine. Maintenance costs are average for the class. While major repairs aren't overwhelmingly common, they can be more expensive than some competitors. Long-term ownership costs are reasonable if routine maintenance is followed. It's not the absolute cheapest car to own, but it strikes a good balance between cost and features.

2018 Volkswagen Jetta Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2018 Volkswagen Jetta Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2018 Volkswagen Jetta Insurance

Insurance for a 2018 Volkswagen Jetta is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2018 Volkswagen Jetta competes with the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, and Hyundai Elantra. In terms of performance, the Civic and Mazda3 offer a slightly sportier driving experience. The Corolla is known for its exceptional reliability. The Elantra often provides more features for the price.
The Jetta offers a comfortable ride and a relatively spacious interior, placing it competitively. Its fuel economy is comparable to its rivals. Reliability is generally good, but not quite on par with the Corolla. The Civic and Mazda3 have more modern interior designs.
If reliability is your top priority, the Toyota Corolla is a solid choice. For a sportier drive, consider the Mazda3 or Honda Civic. The Hyundai Elantra is a good value option with many features. The Jetta holds its own with its comfortable ride, spaciousness, and German engineering, making it a worthwhile consideration for those seeking a well-rounded compact sedan. However, the others often excel in one specific area.

Ranks #1522 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0β˜…)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0β˜…)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0β˜…)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0β˜…)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (4.0β˜…)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0β˜…)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0β˜…)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0β˜…)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0β˜…)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0β˜…)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0β˜…)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0β˜…)
1522 2018 Volkswagen Jetta (5.0β˜…)

Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta a Good Sedan?

The 2018 Volkswagen Jetta is a good choice for those seeking a comfortable, fuel-efficient, and practical compact sedan. It's ideal for commuters, small families, or anyone who appreciates German engineering. It's generally worth buying as a used car, offering good value for money. The SE or SEL trims offer a good balance of features and affordability. Avoid the base S trim if possible, as it lacks some desirable features. Ensure a thorough inspection before purchasing to check for any potential issues, especially with the transmission and infotainment system.

2018 Volkswagen Jetta Owner Reviews

4.75
Consumer Rating, Based on 57 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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JB on May 7, 2021

Great car

This vehicle met the needs we were looking for. Drives well has sport mode for when I’m in a nascar driver mood! All around pretty good vehicle.

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David on April 19, 2021

Gorgeous Car!

The bright red vehicle really stood out and only having 4,600 miles on a 2018 made it literally a brand new purchase. Being certified preowned, I have the confidence that this car will last a long time for me.

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Indyded on April 3, 2021

A great value in a used car

Recently bought a used 2018 Jetta SE with 40k miles. Paid about 60% of the new-car cost for one less than 3 years old. Looks good, gets great mileage, has blind spot and rear crossing alerts, v-Tex seating, uses Android Auto, keyless entry and start. Perfect road car with roomy trunk and easy handling. It’s one generation behind the current design, but what a deal!

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ChefMikeW on March 17, 2021

Comfortable, efficient, and VW feel!

I tested a 2020 Passat, and the 2018 Jetta. I much preferred the Jetta- it still feels like driving a car. The Passat floated like a giant white spaceship and was disconcerting. My Jetta is just right in size, new features, price, mpg, and still keeps that Volkswagen driving experience that feels the same in every good VW model. It has character, the warranties and dealer perks are perfect, and I love it!

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VW Fan on January 19, 2021

Third Jetta this family has owned.

Reliable, sporty, fuel efficient and more. It's a nice care for the money, and the newer models have a great look to them. Highly recommend.

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Suzanne Roger on November 4, 2020

Most reliable car I owned

Two great extra features that I would recommend.The Jetta SE automatic and also the stick shift feature help when entering on the freeway The back up noise and light feature is another safety feature that I rely on whendriving daily.

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Rick R on October 20, 2020

My first new car purchase since 1977

I bought this VW Jetta for my daily commuter... 100 + miles round-trip. It was least expenive with 40 mpg. Sporty enough to get a speeding ticket. Room for 6 foot tall driver and family use on weekends.

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Josh on February 3, 2020

Fun affordable car

This car is super fun to drive and fits my family of 4 easily. Plenty of space in the trunk for sports equipment or luggage. Geat has mileage. Really quite and glides down the road. Not to mention it's a very good looking car. There's something to be said about German engineering.

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John on December 28, 2019

Loved it

Could not make a better decision ! My wife and my kids enjoyed daily. Runs great. Peace and comfort.No repairs. Great fuel distance.I would definitely recommend.

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Laila on December 2, 2019

Really good car. Loved driving it every day.

This car has been the best car I've ever owned. It was super reliable, fast and safe. I would recommend this car to anyone and would totally keep it if I wasn't moving.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.