The sixth-generation (A6) iteration of Volkswagen's Jetta shared its PQ35 underpinnings with the likes of the sixth-generation Golf, Scirocco and the Audi A3 of the same vintage, meaning that it is, for all intents and purposes, a Golf with a sedan body style, as has been the case throughout the history of the product. Therefore, when looking at the Jetta as a pre-owned proposition, it does start to look rather appealing if you are a fan of its body style. Let's take a look at these vehicles as pre-owned propositions.
Related: Shop for new and used Volkswagen Jetta cars for sale here.
About the Jetta A6
The sixth-generation of the Jetta was sold locally from 2014 until 2018 when Volkswagen South Africa made the decision to not bring the current seventh-generation model to the local market. The model range included a range of turbo petrol and turbodiesel engines. The entry-level petrol is the 77kW/175Nm 1.2 TSI which was available with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Next up in the petrol range is the 1.4 TSI model that produces 90kW/200Nm and was offered with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG transmission. There was also the rather problematic turbo and supercharged version of the 1.4-litre petrol engine which produces 118kW/240Nm which was only available with a 7-speed DSG gearbox. Moving on to the diesel models we a 1.6-litre turbodiesel model that produces 77kW/250Nm and was available either a 5-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG transmission. The flagship diesel Jetta was the 2.0- TDI which produces 103kW and 320Nm of torque and was available with a 6-speed DSG gearbox.
Buying a used Jetta
Since the A6-generation Jetta shares its engines, gearboxes and underpinnings with the sixth-generation Gold models, the same potential issues may rear their head in the petrol-powered models. These include potential failures in the coil pack/spark plug water pump failure, throttle body, electric window regulator failure and faulty map sensor issues. Those looking at the twin-charged turbo and supercharged 1.4 TSI models should note that supercharger failure, excessive oil consumption, injector problem and fuel pump failure are not uncommon, so we recommend avoiding these variants. We suggest thoroughly checking the vehicle's maintenance history and having a detailed inspection carried-out on the vehicle.Looking at the TDI engines, common faults premature dual-mass flywheel failure, include timing belt tensioner failure, fuel injector issues, oil pump driveshaft failure and blocked Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF). As with the TSI models, the TDI models should be thoroughly inspected and have their maintenance history securitized before purchase.
Is a used Volkswagen Jetta a good car?
The sixth-generation Jetta, if maintained and cared for properly will make for a fantastic pre-owned proposition, providing space, safety, frugality and refinement in what is generally considered a reliable package with ample spare part availability.
