Volkswagen Jetta Saloon (2011-2018) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 4 out of 54.0

Written by Chris Ebbs Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 44 - 68 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

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The previous model held its value fairly well, especially compared to rivals like the Mazda3 Saloon or Renault Megane, but it isn’t as robust as the more popular Golf model and this is likely to continue. You can expect to pay a premium for Volkswagen servicing too, but will be treated to quality customer service and reliability.

Like a number of models in the range, the top ‘eco’ choice is the 1.6 TDI with BlueMotion Technology. This adds start/stop along with brake regeneration and means the Jetta will achieve a claimed 67mpg with the manual gearbox and 65mpg with the seven-speed DSG auto ‘box, while are emissions are just 109g/km and 113g/km respectively.

Reliability is one of the manufacturer’s strong points – VWs are widely regarded as dependable. The engines are already used across most of the range and all seem to have held up well so far. However, the cabin doesn’t feel up to the same standard of the Golf or the Passat.