1999 Volkswagen Jetta Reviews, Pricing & Specs




































































































































































































































































































































































































































Overview
1999 was a changeover year for the Volkswagen Jetta, with some of the previous year's models still on sale for several months, and a new,...
1999 was a changeover year for the Volkswagen Jetta, with some of the previous year's models still on sale for several months, and a new, next-generation version introduced later in the model year. With this new version, the Jetta's body was enlarged slightly, the engine and interior were updated, and the list of standard features available throughout the line was expanded.
The new Jetta GL sedan got an updated 115-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and came with a list of standard features that included a keyless entry system, power door locks, anti-lock brakes, dual airbags, air conditioning, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, and an anti-theft alarm system.
Also available were a new higher-end Jetta GLS trim package, a GLX version with a 174-horsepower V6, and two new TDI turbodiesel trim packages. All versions came dual airbags and anti-lock brakes, among other features. The GLX came standard with leather seats and a power sunroof.
Overall, drivers were impressed with the Jetta's handling, smoothness over the road, comfort, and roominess. And while some drivers praised the overall build quality of the Golf, others noted frequent problems and reliability issues with the car.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 1999 Volkswagen Jetta appreciate its reliability, fun driving experience, and good gas mileage. On the plus side, many found the handling and build quality to be strong points. However, the car's performance, especially in terms of acceleration and power, received criticism, with several drivers noting it can feel slow. Maintenance costs and occasional electronics issues were also mentioned as downsides."
Acceleration wasn't the best, often needed a lot of power to switch gears. Brakes were always kinda squeaky even after getting them replaced. Exterior paint was chipping in a couple spots. Interior paint on door handles was wearing off. Glovebox door was broken and center console cover broke. Factory alarm would activate 30 seconds after unlocking the car even if I was in it, unless I turned the car on or opened a passenger side door. Had to replace one of the power window motors. Hood latch broke and also had to be replaced. Mileage was pretty good but probably not what you'd expect from a Jetta. Otherwise it ran good, didn't need much done under the hood. Power moon/sunroof worked great and speakers sounded amazing. Black/tan interior, chrome shift panel and blue/red dashboard lights were awesome.
October 17, 2009I absolutely love my VW Jetta. Its has been a GREAT car for me. It is by far my favorite vehicle I've ever owned. It has been reliable. I feel safe driving it, ive never worried about it breaking down. I'm really looking forward to purchasing a newer model. Highly recommended!
January 19, 2015Great handling and exceptional mileage. Lowered 1.5 inches with Eibach Springs. Original Turbo and Clutch after 289,000 miles! I like it better than the new models I have tested, and will continue to run this one for many more miles
January 10, 2012What owners say
Acceleration wasn't the best, often needed a lot of power to switch gears. Brakes were always kinda squeaky even after getting them replaced. Exterior paint was chipping in a couple spots. Interior paint on door handles was wearing off. Glovebox door was broken and center console cover broke. Factory alarm would activate 30 seconds after unlocking the car even if I was in it, unless I turned the car on or opened a passenger side door. Had to replace one of the power window motors. Hood latch broke and also had to be replaced. Mileage was pretty good but probably not what you'd expect from a Jetta. Otherwise it ran good, didn't need much done under the hood. Power moon/sunroof worked great and speakers sounded amazing. Black/tan interior, chrome shift panel and blue/red dashboard lights were awesome.
October 17, 2009I absolutely love my VW Jetta. Its has been a GREAT car for me. It is by far my favorite vehicle I've ever owned. It has been reliable. I feel safe driving it, ive never worried about it breaking down. I'm really looking forward to purchasing a newer model. Highly recommended!
January 19, 2015Great handling and exceptional mileage. Lowered 1.5 inches with Eibach Springs. Original Turbo and Clutch after 289,000 miles! I like it better than the new models I have tested, and will continue to run this one for many more miles
January 10, 2012Classic Volkswagen everything. It has typical performance for a 90hp diesel. Build quality is very good (German Engineering). As far as appearance goes I'm a huge fan of German styling and the cost to maintain it is minimal. Is it fun to drive? It is a Volkswagen so... heck yes! German cars always handle better! I love it! I would definitely recommend this vehicle.
December 5, 2009its got good performance and all that jazz. runs well, no major problems, but it seems to be the little things that go wrong with it. for example the windshield wiper motor went out, and was expensive to fix. same story with the air control switch. good car, expensive minor details.
August 11, 2009Good performance but a little loose on the handling. Interior quality leaves a little desired but I'm loving the sound quality of the stock stereo. gas mileage is a lot better than reported especially on the manual transmission, and spare parts are fairly cheap as this generation of the Jetta is still in production in Mexico.
September 2, 2008Drives well, brakes well, handles GREAT, pretty reliable, looks great in and out, good gas mileage, easy to maintain, SOOOOOO much fun to drive. I love this car and plan on keeping it until I have children of my own. One day it'll be lowered, flat white with a black roof, have a roof rack, and some nice 17x8's up front and 17x9's out back.
June 30, 2009Its only a 4 cyl. but it really puts all of it on the road. Very low center of gravity makes handling perfect. Small car very easy to get through tight spots. Parking is almost never a problem. Fun car in general.
June 8, 2009Great build quality, minimal repairs. Good options and good choice of interior materials. Pleasing yet practical styling in typical VW manner. The performance on the 2.0 liter is reasonably snappy, and good on gas, but not a huge thriller on the straights. Gearbox is slightly clunky. However, great handling with compliant ride quality make it a fun and economical city car.
April 15, 20092.0 inline 4 cylinder 5 speed lowered 3 inches with eibach sportline springs and KYB struts all the way around. I drive this car daily for the $20 every other week its costs me in gas. Its kinda quick beat a eg hatch with lsv tec
August 18, 2010Trims & specs
Base MSRP $17,225 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 13.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $18,520 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 13.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $15,345 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 13.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $20,475 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 13.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $21,455 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 13.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $18,175 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 13.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $19,225 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 13.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $24,025 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 13.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $16,270 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 13.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $17,000 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |