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Independent review & score by Carivo
| Engine | 1.5L 4-Cylinder |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Automatic (S8) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Regular |
| City / Hwy MPG | 29 / 40 MPG |
| Combined MPG | 34 MPG |
| Est. Annual Fuel Cost | $2,000 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 265 g/mi |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Base Price | $23,241–$27,508 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta is a sedan that earns a Carivo score of 7.7/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Technology at 8.6/10, while Safety at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. The reliability picture is solid rather than spectacular: 7.4/10, which puts it comfortably above the class median. Safety is a notable gap at 6.6/10 in our scoring — below what the best in segment deliver. Check the official NHTSA ratings for the trim you're considering before deciding.
Performance at 6.8/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. On technology it rates 8.6/10: a modern, well-integrated suite that compares favorably with anything at this price point.
Priced from $23,241–$27,508, 34 MPG, seating 5, the Volkswagen Jetta sits in the budget-friendly tier of the sedan market. At 7.9/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. As the current model year, it benefits from the latest updates and full manufacturer warranty coverage.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta will scare a sensible buyer off. Keep an eye on performance and safety if those matter to you; otherwise it does what a good sedan should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta ranks #428 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 67% of the segment. Its 7.7/10 overall score is 0.2 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $23,241 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $27,664 by about 16%.
Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full Sedan ranking →
Across the Jetta model years we've scored, the 2026 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
| Year | Score | Starting price (MSRP when new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 (this review) | 7.7/10 | $23,241 | |
| 2025 | 7.7/10 | $23,241 | Read review → |
| 2024 | 7.6/10 | $22,565 | Read review → |
| 2023 | 7.6/10 | $21,888 | Read review → |
| 2022 | 7.5/10 | $21,211 | Read review → |
| 2021 | 7.5/10 | $20,534 | Read review → |
| 2020 | 7.6/10 | $19,857 | Read review → |
| 2019 | 7.4/10 | $19,180 | Read review → |
| 2018 | 7.4/10 | $18,503 | Read review → |
| 2017 | 7.3/10 | $17,788 | Read review → |
| 2016 | 7.3/10 | $17,130 | Read review → |
| 2015 | 7.2/10 | $16,472 | Read review → |
The following recall campaign has been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
| Electrical system / Wiring 11/03/2026 · 26V138000 | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Jetta vehicles. The transmission ground wire may not have been properly connected during assembly, causing an open electrical circuit. |
|---|
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Explore the full lineup of Volkswagen models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.