Used Volkswagen Jetta For Sale in Canada
The Volkswagen Jetta has earned its reputation as one of Canada’s most versatile and well loved sedans. Known for its refined German engineering, advanced safety features and lasting dependability, the Jetta remains a top contender for drivers seeking a premium yet affordable pre owned vehicle. For decades, Canadians from coast to coast have trusted the Volkswagen Jetta as a practical sedan that balances comfort, technology and fuel efficiency making it a standout in the used car market.
At The Car Boys, we specialize in offering a wide range of used Volkswagen Jettas for sale. Whether you want a used Volkswagen Jetta, a certified pre-owned model or a second-hand Jetta near you, our inspected inventory has the right fit for your budget and lifestyle.
A Brief History of the Volkswagen Jetta
The Volkswagen Jetta was first introduced in 1979 as a sedan version of the Golf, combining German engineering with everyday practicality. Its refined design, fuel efficiency and reliability quickly made it popular worldwide, including in Canada.
Over the years, the Jetta has grown into one of Volkswagen’s best selling models, offering trims from economical daily drivers to performance focused GLI editions. Known for its solid build quality and strong resale value, the Jetta has received recognition such as:
- Best-Selling Volkswagen Model in North America
- IIHS Top Safety Pick (on select model years)
- Canadian Black Book Best Retained Value Award
Volkswagen Jetta Model Years & Variants (Canada)
2010
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, TDI (diesel)
2011
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI, TDI
2012
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI, TDI
2013
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI
2014
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI
2015
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI
2016
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI, TDI
2017
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI, TDI
2018
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI
2019
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI
2020
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI
2021
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI
2022
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI
2023
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI
2024
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI, TDI (select models)
2025
Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI, TDI, R-Line (projected)
Volkswagen Jetta Generations: 1st to 8th (1979–2025)
1st Generation (1979–1984)
The Jetta Arrives in North America
Overview: Launched in 1979, the Jetta was introduced as a sedan version of the Golf, catering to Canadians who preferred a traditional trunk. Compact, fuel-efficient and practical, it quickly gained popularity during an era of rising fuel costs.
- Engines & Trims: 1.1L–1.8L inline-4 gasoline and diesel options. Basic trims with manual transmissions dominated sales.
- Notable Features: Boxy styling, simple interiors, reliable engines and strong fuel efficiency.
- Canadian Notes: One of the first affordable German sedans widely available in Canada.
Legacy: Hard to find today, but the first Jetta set the stage for Volkswagen’s long-standing reputation in the used car market.
2nd Generation (1985–1992)
Bigger, Safer and More Practical
Overview: The Jetta grew in size and gained improved safety features, making it one of the most popular European imports in Canada during the late ’80s.
- Engines & Trims: 1.6L diesel, 1.8L and 2.0L gasoline engines. Multiple trim levels, including GLI performance models.
- Notable Features: More interior space, available fuel injection, better crash safety.
- Canadian Notes: The diesel Jetta became a favourite among high-mileage Canadian drivers.
Legacy: Still regarded as one of the most reliable generations, with a cult following in today’s jetta second hand market.
3rd Generation (1993–1999)
Modern Looks, Everyday Comfort
Overview: Volkswagen softened the Jetta’s styling and focused on ride comfort and everyday usability.
- Engines & Trims: 2.0L inline-4, 2.8L VR6 for higher trims. GL and GLS trims are popular.
- Notable Features: Safer structure, available ABS, improved suspension tuning.
- Canadian Notes: Popular among students and commuters for reliability and low ownership costs.
Legacy: Affordable jetta used cars for sale from this era are still seen on Canadian roads.
4th Generation (1999–2005)
Upscale Design in a Compact Package
Overview: Known for its premium interiors and luxury-like feel, this generation pushed the Jetta into the spotlight as a “German luxury sedan at a compact price.”
- Engines & Trims: 1.9L TDI diesel, 2.0L inline-4, 1.8T turbo, 2.8L VR6. Popular trims included GLS, GLX and GLI.
- Notable Features: Leather seating, premium audio, advanced safety tech for the time.
- Canadian Notes: The diesel Jetta for sale became a Canadian favourite thanks to unmatched highway fuel efficiency.
Legacy: Still considered one of the strongest resale performers in the volkswagen pre owned Canada market.
5th Generation (2006–2010)
Refined, Spacious and Safer
Overview: Redesigned with a larger footprint, the Jetta grew more family-friendly with a refined cabin and stronger safety systems.
- Engines & Trims: 2.5L inline-5, 2.0T turbo, 1.9L & 2.0L TDI diesel. GLI performance model available.
- Notable Features: Stability control, advanced airbags, available DSG transmission.
- Canadian Notes: This generation earned trust as a durable, winter-ready compact sedan.
Legacy: Remains a strong option in the certified pre owned volkswagen jetta for sale category.
6th Generation (2011–2018)
Affordable, Spacious and Tech-Friendly
Overview: Volkswagen redesigned the Jetta to be more affordable, focusing on space and practicality.
- Engines & Trims:
Base 2.0L inline-4 (115 hp)
1.4L turbo (150 hp)
1.8L turbo (170 hp)
2.0L TDI diesel (140 hp, excellent highway range) - Trims: Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GLI, Wolfsburg Edition
- Notable Features: Backup camera standard from 2016, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on later models, GLI sport trim with 210 hp.
- Canadian Notes: Comfortline and Highline trims were most popular in Canada, often equipped with heated seats and winter-ready features.
Legacy: A staple of the used Volkswagen Jetta for sale market, especially the TDI for long-distance commuters.
7th Generation (2019–Present)
Modern, Digital and Refined
Overview: Launched in 2019 on VW’s MQB platform, the 7th-generation Jetta is larger, sleeker and more advanced. A 2022 refresh brought a stronger 1.5L turbo engine and updated interior, while 2025 added a redesigned dashboard and more standard tech.
- Engines & Trims:
1.4L turbo (147 hp, 2019–2021)
1.5L turbo (158 hp, 2022–Present)
2.0L turbo (GLI, 228 hp)
Trims: Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, R-Line, GLI - Notable Features: Digital cockpit, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, IQ.Drive driver-assistance, heated seats and mirrors, upgraded infotainment from 2022 onward.
- Canadian Notes: Comfortline and Highline trims are favourites for their winter-ready features, while GLI attracts enthusiasts seeking performance.
Legacy: A top choice in the used Volkswagen Jetta for sale market for buyers wanting efficiency, comfort and advanced technology.
Which Volkswagen Jetta Generation Should You Buy?
| Generation | Years | Best For | Estimated Price (Used CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5th Gen (A5) | 2006–2010 | Budget-friendly German sedan | $3,500–$7,500 |
| 6th Gen (A6) | 2011–2018 | Value, practicality, TDI fuel efficiency | $6,000–$12,000 |
| 7th Gen (A7) | 2019–Present | Modern tech, safety, like-new options | $16,000–$28,000+ |
Expert Tips When Shopping for a Pre-Owned Volkswagen Jetta
Check TDI (Turbocharged Direct Injection) diesel service and recall history
Inspect DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission fluid and shift quality
Watch for rust on wheel arches and rocker panels
Choose Comfortline/Highline for features and value
Pick GLI (Grand Luxury Injection) trim for sporty driving performance
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a used Volkswagen Jetta for sale a good first car in Canada?
Yes. It offers excellent fuel economy, strong safety features on many model years and easy parking. Insurance is usually affordable for compact sedans.
2. What is the best year for a used VW Jetta?
The 2016–2018 Jetta is often the sweet spot for used buyers with modern features like backup camera and smartphone connectivity, plus reliable engines. For those wanting the newest tech, the 2019+ 7th-generation Jettas are excellent choices.
3. Are used Volkswagen Jettas expensive to maintain?
Routine maintenance is competitive for its class. Oil changes, brakes and filters are affordable if done on schedule. Using genuine parts helps avoid costly repairs.
4. Manual or automatic—what’s better?
Manuals are engaging and often cheaper to maintain, while automatics (including VW’s DSG gearbox) are convenient for city driving. Pick the one that fits your lifestyle.
5. What is considered high mileage for a Jetta?
Anything over 160,000–200,000 km is typically “high mileage.” However, if the car has full service records, a Jetta can still run reliably well past that.
6. Do Jettas hold their value?
Yes, especially in Canada. Jettas with Comfortline or Highline trims and good service history often retain strong resale value compared to other compact sedans.
7. What should I check on a test drive?
Check cold start behaviour, smooth shifting, brake feel, steering alignment, infotainment functions and listen for any odd noises over bumps.
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