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Used 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid Consumer Reviews

2.6 out of 5 stars
34 reviews

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5 out of 5 stars

Jetta Hybrid Works For Me

jpa010, 03/26/2013
updated 03/26/2017
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
83 of 89 people found this review helpful

Despite the elevated cost of the SEL Premium version, I needed a commuter car with excellent mpg specs, and being a VW fan, was drawn to the Jetta Hybrid. Previously I'd owned a 2011 GTi, but didn't care for the 28mpg part of ownership (but a blast to drive, for sure). Having driven several Prius vehicles, I learned to dislike the golf-cart like CVT, so the 7 speed DSG of the Jetta Hybrid was a huge plus. I love this car so far, and 46 mpg is my mileage after two tanks of (premium) fuel. Build quality a notch above a base Jetta, almost A3 like. The Fender audio is as good as anything a manufacturer has ever put into a car, IMHO. Thank you VW for an alternative to TDI! UPDATE March 2016: three years on, and I still love this car. It drives great, build quality is top-notch, and I've yet to hear a OEM audio system as good as this one. Still getting about 44-45 MPG, unless I drive it really hard, when it drops to ~40 UPDATE Mach 2017: Now into the fourth year of ownership, I STILL love this car. No issues with the car whatsoever, still averaging ~45mpg in mixed driving. Such a shame VW elected to stop making these, but obviously not a huge selling vehicle for them. No cheating required to get my excellent mileage.

Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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2 out of 5 stars

Disappointed

Kate, 07/07/2016
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
30 of 32 people found this review helpful

I bought the car in 2013. I love VW's. Thought the hybrid would be great economical car but turns out to be nothing but trouble. Year 2 it needed a new engine and year 3 a transmission. Got the extended warranty thank goodness. However a rental is not covered. First time I got a loaner and this time needed to get a rental. I'm curious if any other owners had the same issues or is mine a fluke?

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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1 out of 5 stars

Worst car ever

Phil Green , 04/04/2019
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful

My jetta hybrid has been nothing but a money pit. VW dealers have no idea how to fix this car. I have been through 4 transmissions, a radiator-how that goes bad I dont know, fuel injectors, a heater core, and 2 headlight assemblies. Everytime I bring it, something else goes wrong within a month. I finally had to cut my loss. What a waste. It drives great, but the check engine light wont go off. I've been turned away by 2 VW dealerships because they are afraid inwomg keep paying for endless repairs. Have 3 claims with VW USA and there is nothing they will do. I'm thinking class action. What a lemon.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
2 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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1 out of 5 stars

Never buy Volkswagen

Andrea, 12/12/2018
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SE 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful

Transmission went out at 67k, $7395 to fix, no help from Volkswagen, other vehicles have been recalled because of stalling out but the say my vin # doesn’t fall under the recall even though it is obvious it’s having the same kind of problems.

Safety
1 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
1 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse

2 out of 5 stars

Don't Understand the 4/5 Star Reviews

golfocd, 05/06/2015
updated 05/09/2016
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
24 of 26 people found this review helpful

I waited a long time to write this review because I wanted it to be good. This is my commuter car and I have put 42k miles on it in a year and a half. Right after warranty expired, things started breaking. You have heard about VW "Electrical Problems", this is TRUE. Do not buy a VW until they get this cleared up. Also sometimes, when it shifts from electric to gas, the entire car shakes and you almost feel like the engine is going to fall out of the car. It's just an average car, fuel mileage for a hybrid is "ok." I've contemplated just asking if I can return the car. For 27k, I really expect a lot more.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
2 out of 5 stars
Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
2 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
4 out of 5 stars

First Year with the Hybrid Jetta

geoff_ct, 03/07/2014
updated 10/03/2018
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SE 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful

I've driven my 2013 Hybrid Jetta for a full year now and while I like the car it's worth sharing my experience. First, I've had some quality issues that required pretty major dealer service. The AC did not work at all and required 3 days in the dealership to re-program. Next the climate sync and off did not work and required that the climate module be replaced. I had to return to the dealer to have the AC turned on again after the climate control module was replaced. Most recently a vacuum pump failed and the check hybrid and check engine lights went on. I was averaging 42.7 mpg but lately it's down to 37.5. I think the change is due to my reduced efforts at driving economically. It's 2016 and I've driven the hybrid Jetta for 47k. It's a good high speed, highway car that likes the corners, too. I rent cars regularly and any cars in the mid size category don't drive as well or have the same level of finish. So far, very good now that the initial quality issues are behind me. It's late 2017 and I've put 75,000 miles on the car. It's been a reliable car. The rotors have rusted and the transmission is leaking - all pointed out by the dealer. I'll have them fixed at next service. The only drivability complaint is a lurch/delay when the car is cold and it transitions from electric to gas at about 15-20mph. It's truly a cool weather condition that disappears when the car is fully warmed up. Not a happy ending for this car. In the spring of 2018 during routine 70,000 mile maintenance, a leak in the transmission was reported to me with the ultimate recommendation that I replace the transmission for approximately $6000. I did replace the transmission with some financial aid from VW for about $3300 out of pocket, but promptly traded in the car for a deeply discounted 2017 Passat SEL. If I had waited a few weeks I would have received an additional $4000 trade in value for the Jetta - I received a trade in offer in the mail after complaining to the regional customer service rep. As it was, I received about $6000 in trade. towards the Passat.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
3 out of 5 stars

Not Worth It's Weight in Your Gold...

Mike S, 10/17/2016
updated 04/23/2017
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

I waited a bit to write this seeing it's hard to give the car a fair shake just driving it off the lot. I have crossed over the 80k mile mark and its been so-so to me. I've experienced some of the issues that others have talked about in some of these reviews. Quirky electrical issues (airbag sensor randomly failing, back passenger window that doesn't automatically roll up anymore considering it's rarely used, complete power failure that I thought was due to a low battery... it was not. Started up just fine after sitting for a bit), mechanical issues with the car jerking when switching from electric to gas... It was in the dealer twice for that issue and they didn't fix it. It does it randomly so of course when they drive it, it doesn't do it. I get about upper 30s to low 40s for MPG but maybe due to the fact that a majority of my driving is city roads but very rarely anywhere near the 47 they advertise. But then again I have never had a car that ever got what they advertised for MPG. Overall, it has been fairly reliable and nothing major at this point. Not worth the price they want for it though considering the amount of money you have to sink into it for maintenance.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
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1 out of 5 stars

DO NOT BUY THIS CAR!!

Carissa, 11/01/2015
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
23 of 26 people found this review helpful

The car doesn't make the gas mileage it promises. I've tried everything to make it work. I bought the car for the fuel economy. Now my car has been in the shop for a month (third time I bring in for same problem) due to a jerking feeling that happens randomly as it switches from electric to gas. I've also had issues with the car randomly saying key not in range. It was in the shop at least three times for that. Then I brought it in for the sun roof not closing. I've had many cars with sunroofs and never had to have them greased and the lines blown out. The car is not worth it. Don't do it!! I'm very disappointed and dissatisfied. Not to mention it does not hold its value at all!! I checked it's Kelly blue book value and the car is upside down.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
3 out of 5 stars

Do Not Buy a VW - bad electrical and transmission

Rich, 12/26/2015
updated 07/05/2018
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful

Car randomly clunks and looses power. Odd electric The Good: The car has a great feel and has lots of room. It also has power for passing but I try to drive efficiently. The Bad: 1. Often, the car looses power and shutters violently. I have read that this occurs when switching between electric and engine power. 2. Weird electrical issues. Sometimes, the fan (while turned off) will turn itself on full blast. Also, this can occur if turning sharply or sometimes from using the brake. Also, under the same conditions, the radio switches stations. It might be that the radio looses power briefly. Of course the dealer cannot replicate any of the above issues and there are no alarm codes saved in the car's CPU. If anyone has ever gotten to the root of these issues, please post it. 3. For the $40k range, the mpg should be better. Overall mpg is in low to mid 30s, sometimes around 37 for a while but it's easy to loose that average. 4. The fan and a/c don't make it to the back seats. There may be vents for the back seats but they have no noticeable effect. 5. The sensor in the passenger seat makes the seat belt alarm go off frequently if there is almost anything, such as a cell phone, on the seat.

Technology
2 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
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1 out of 5 stars

Even the VW service adviser said get rid of it!

Russ P., 11/08/2017
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
33 of 39 people found this review helpful

I purchased a used 2013 VW Jetta Hybrid. It had 68k miles on it. The car was in excellent condition. Unfortunately, things started breaking almost immediately. Cooling fans replaced, water pump replaced, and now fuel pump had to be replaced. We have had $3500 in repairs in the 5 months we have owned this car. Unacceptable for a car with less than 80,000 miles. VW's part supplier quality is terrible. I will be trading this car as soon as possible before another huge repair bill happens. I will never, ever, EVER consider buying another VW because of this experience. After the second repair, I asked the service advisor at the VW dealership if they are seeing a lot of issues with this car. She even went so far as to say "if it was my car, I would get rid of it". That speaks volumes.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
2 out of 5 stars

Problems Galore

CP, 11/19/2015
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful

I've had this car for 2 years and leased it new from the dealer. It has had problems since day 1. The brakes constantly squeak and South Coast VW in Santa Ana has said it due to the material they use to manufacture the brakes coupled with brake dust. That plain and simple "it' something you have to live with. There is nothing they can do. Also have experienced what feels like the car is slipping gears when I accelerate or decelerate. This happens on a cold start and in stop and go traffic usually in lower gears. It's been recalled for several issues including NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V568000 for the gearbox. Safety Recall 69L2 for a Steering Wheel Clock Spring.

Safety
2 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
1 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
1 out of 5 stars

At 63K miles engine needs replacing

Sheila, 02/06/2018
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SE 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful

Don't buy a VW hybrid!! There aren't enough out there to show numbers of failures. Our car, bought a year new in 2014, no longer fires its 2nd cylinder. In other words, it would cost us $14,000 to fix a car that is worth $6000 (if there were no engine problems!) Because it is out of warranty, VW is taking no responsibility to help defray the costs.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
2 out of 5 stars
Comfort
2 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
4.63 out of 5 stars

Exceeding expectations

drm14, 08/22/2013
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful

As a current TDI owner I've enjoyed great performance and economy. I was skeptical of the hybrid, but I have been surprised to be getting better than EPA estimates for mpg, usually mid 40s to low 50s. The car does not need to be driven slow, but you need to maximize the time the car is driving under battery power or sailing. The power meter helps a lot with this. Aggressive driving will lower mpg considerably. The road feel is great and the DSG is very smooth. The 1.4L TSI is very torquey and the car feels quick. I have the SEL which is nicely equipped. I think the hybrids compliment the TDIs nicely. The hybrid is ideal for those driving around town and on crowded highways.

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3 out of 5 stars

7 yrs + 124,000 mi = $7,000 Transmission Problem

Hybrid at Heart, 01/04/2020
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I purchased my car brand new from VW in 2013. On the first day I drove it off the lot it stalled. An omen of the expenses to come. I wanted a hybrid car that wasn't a hatchback and at the time this was one of the best looking options. I'll admit that the shifting from electric battery to gas engine was clunky and if not handled gently the car would lurch forward in a startling way. The MPG and the style were the mains draws for me so I was willing to overlook certain problems in the beginning. I've been getting compliments on the car's premium appearance since I purchased it. Unfortunately it also comes with a premium price. The same year I purchased the car there was a recall for gearbox fluid which had a direct impact on the transmission. By the time the recall was in effect I had already driven 10k miles. VW covered the cost of that repair, unfortunately they won't cover the nail in the coffin. In 2019, with 124k miles my hybrid has come to the same problem other reviewers have mentioned; the DSG Transmission has failed and the dealership has quoted a price of $7k. Reading these reviews I guess I was lucky to have made it this far. Most cars in my family have made it into the 200k mileage before needing major repairs. These were not VWs or hybrids. I think I will steer clear of VWs for now but the fuel economy of a hybrid for my long commute is hard to pass up. My suggestion would be to do your research and ensure that the car you choose has market longevity and has been road tested to last the mileage/years you expect to be driving.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
2 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
2 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
3 out of 5 stars

Bad depreciation

James Beswick, 09/11/2016
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SE 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful

Dropped from $28k to $10k in 2 years. Not as fuel efficient as claimed. Not comfortable for long rides. Bluetooth is flaky.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
1 out of 5 stars

WAS a great car...

Kevtennis, 02/16/2019
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

It WAS a great car and then 4500 miles over the warranty - the MAIN BIG BATTERY goes out! $7K to fix it and the car is worth $7k WORKING!!! BE CAREFUL if you buy a hybrid - yes i know they do not make them anymore... smart move on their part to get out... I now have a GREAT looking car in my driveway that I cannot start with spending at least $7K!!! Any recommendations for the car?

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
1 out of 5 stars

Lemon!

Brian, 03/29/2019
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

We bought this car used in 2016 with 70k on it. The previous owner did all the required maintenance and did alot of highway driving. The car was quick for a hybrid had a nice look and a nice stereo. That was the good. Within a year we lost the heat. Needed a heater core. Then we started having a hard shift almost like it was ready to stall transitioning between electric and gas. That never got better only worse. Gas mileage was 30mpg at best and it requires premium gas. Went through 2 sets of tires bc the camber on this car was never right and none of the shops could align it right. Then the ultimate kick in the nuts happened. After not even having the car 3 years with a little over a 100k the engine failed. Started with a light tapping noise on the top end brought it in dropped the oil pan and chunks of metal were in there. After further investigation the piston broke apart.

Safety
2 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
2 out of 5 stars
Comfort
2 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
1 out of 5 stars

RUN Fast... RUN Far ...away from this car!

starman_007, 06/15/2022
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I bought this car used in 2018 @ 53k miles for $13000. My hopes were a German car would have a very high powertrain life. Boy... was I wrong! Within 1 month of owning the vehicle, the check engine light and EPC light came on. The dealership fixed it for free due to lemon laws. They said it was a faulty sensor that was causing the issue. After this fix, the car remained riddled with issues. CEL would come on and go off randomly. Here's a breakdown of what happened and when. 55k miles - CEL Issue + Rear tail lamp malfunction. Fix was a brake light switch $400 + $150 diagnostics. CEL light due to EVAP sensor. P0456 62k miles - Rear stabilizer links are loose and need to be replaced. $320 72k miles - Front springs broken, whole suspensions replaced - $1200 78k miles - Front suspension bushings eroded away. replaced - $300 82k miles - CEL, Engine misfiring due to leakage in oil, caused due to faulty gasket. the dealer made me replace the whole oil pan. -$700 87k miles - The car started shuddering heavily. The cause was found as rusted brake discs, calipers, and brake pads. Also, control arms and bushings were damaged, again. - $1600 88k miles - The car's engine would start and stop continuously. The car refused to stay in hybrid/electric mode. But, would cycle through it every few seconds. Regenerative braking became dangerous and unpredictable, almost causing me a crash. The dealer quoted $350 just for diagnosis and $3000 for replacing the failed mechatronic unit, just outside of the 8-year hybrid warranty. No check engine light or any other warning lights at all. Finally got rid of the car completely, and did not bother fixing it anymore. Other minor issues: - All the door locks would freeze every winter and the electronic unit would fail to lock/unlock, making getting in and out very difficult. - AC Sync and Off never worked, in spite of software updates from the dealer. - Hybrid system malfunction message would appear randomly. Total repair cost over 35k miles and 3.5 years. - $5020, not considering regular oil changes and tire rotations, and other routine maintenance. Just FYI - Transmission Replacement cost: - $7000, Hybrid system repair, including battery - $9500 Save yourself the trouble, and buy a new Hyundai. Compared to the even the current-gen Jettas, they are much more sophisticated and reliable.

Safety
1 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
4.38 out of 5 stars

Pretty much as advertized -- fun to drive hybrid!

nareautogo, 04/24/2013
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
19 of 31 people found this review helpful

I'm 3000 miles on the premium model (no xenon fender or camera) but still quite nice. Gets 45 mpg if you drive 60-65 also nice is that in traffic (where can't accelerate too much) you'll still get 40 mpg or so. Drive like a sports car though -- 35ish. But, moreso, I've been driving hybrids since 2003 and love how this car handles, accelerates and has comfortable drive. VW did really well this car. Quiet ride to boot. I know people will say the "diesel" gives you more bang for your buck...BUT DIESEL IS NOT AS GOOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AS UNLEADED, even "clean" diesel" -- it's just cleaner than previous diesel. This one gets ZERO emissions about 25% and can be more. Much better epa.gov ratings.

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1 out of 5 stars

total POS

Austin, 01/03/2020
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

this car has been in and out of shops since I got it, the transmission had a recall, they took a month to fix it and then 30k miles later it went out again, so I assume they just put the same type of faulty one in there as a replacement, VW states that their warranty for their transmission is only 12k miles, apparently not lot of faith in their product, also needs a new engine for a 6 yr old vehicle, worst experience with a car on my life, and VW customer service apparently isnt great either as they basically said im SOL.

Safety
2 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Interior
2 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
1 out of 5 stars

Do not buy this car

Marilyn , 10/11/2021
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SE 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

VW tried making a hybrid in 2013 (this car) and stopped quickly because they realized they weren’t good at it. You’ll wait months for a part since they don’t make them. You’ll pay thousands in repairs since only master mechanics can figure the problems out.

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1 out of 5 stars

Transmission + Electric Engine Failures @ 75K mile

VW Owner, 11/23/2019
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful

This car has been great on fuel economy and is perfect for mixed use city/highway driving. I am getting an average around 40mpg with the same turbo "zippiness" feel of VW. However, after 75,000 miles, the car was turning on/turning off (shuddering) at idle. Then, the check engine light would randomly go on and off. I took it to 2 dealers and an independent mechanic and all three confirmed that it was transmission failure. Thankfully, I purchased an extended warranty with this car and the transmission was covered, but after replacing the transmission, the VW Service Center also found faults with the vehicle's electric engine and that needed to be replaced as well. Since the car was still under VW Hybrid Warranty, the electric engine was also covered. Two days after having the car out of the shop, the check engine light came on again and the car randomly shut itself off at a stop sign. I took it back into the VW Service center and they found that the brand new VW transmission they had just installed as faulty. It took them another week to order and replace the transmission AGAIN. Now that I have the car, I am happy that it is back in my hands, but am concerned after reading about everyone else's issues, about the long-term reliability. I will be replacing this car before it falls out of warranty in the next year or so.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
1 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
3 out of 5 stars

Unhappy customer 1 of many

Edward Lanney, 12/14/2019
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful

bought the car used with only 14000 miles did all maintenance purchased in 2015 now with only 59000 miles in total. Transmission died and electric fan. The sad part is VW new of problem with these cars and only chose to recall 3,836 really was that all the cars they produced with that problem do not think so. They took a chance of all others would be out of warranty before it happened. Shame on them I will never buy a VW again right now car sitting in service area and refuse to pay $7700 to repair. Better to admit you made a mistake and ask for forgiveness then hide it and let your customer get screwed shame shame/ Here is the real bottom line you stuck it to your customers in order to save your bottom line. Update since my review the dealer where we bought the car through discussions with VW they agreed to pay part of repair. Between VW and the dealer they have decided to pay for some of the repairs still bill for $3200 better then $7700 but I still feel VW should have covered all but will have work done.

Safety
1 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
2 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
Report Abuse
4 out of 5 stars

Perfect...Except "Where's the 48MPG"...???

kksdad, 12/13/2013
updated 06/14/2019
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
9 of 21 people found this review helpful

UPDATE, 06/2019: I'm the primary drive now as my wife didn't "feel safe" in it, since she did 80% of her driving on freeways to/from her work. Nothing has changed, I LOVE the pep and performance you get from the TURBO, and unlike her, I can "thread a needle" in this car, it's very nimble and quick...UNLIKE ME...!!! Have had no issues with the "new" replaced transmission. Our Jetta Hybrid will be a year old next month, my wife's the primary driver and she loves it, but, I LOVE it more, and enjoy driving it so much whenever she "lets me"...!!! don't be fooled by the fact this is a "hybrid", VW has "done it right" with great handling, performance and fuel economy (that cold be BETTER..more details below...) for a car that we are happy to own and have NO regrets in buying. Our 16 yo daughter "can't wait" to get her hands on it when she starts to drive..."in her dreams"....!!! UPDATE: Got a new transmission last year, after it failed while my wife was driving on the freeway to work; fortunately, she got off safely and all work was covered under factory warranty, except it was a MAJOR inconvenience. This past month, the "brake vacuum pump and relay" was replaced, after the engine light came on and the car wasn't switching from "gas to electric", was on 100% gas....this one cost almost $1,000 and WASN'T covered under warranty.....sucks, but what can you do about it....??? It's still a great handling car with decent, not great, mileage....and better than expected power with the turbo....if it holds up, a great car for my daughter to take to college...."wish us LUCK on that"...!!!

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

Trouble from DAY 3

Jason R, 01/27/2017
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
4 of 9 people found this review helpful

I love the car itself, the design the ride the overall car is great. Considering I've only got to drive it w the engine n no hybrid because the dealership pull a quick one on me. 63000 13,!!!! Plus a extended warranty 2500 .. Drove it new to hybrid so had no idea that when it's clicking back and forth at a stop that it's not good. But the dealership said all that's normal all hybrids do that.. So after signing the loan n dropping cash I was off. 3 days later I come in with check engine light all kinds of stuff n a tire .. So I go to the mall and come back n there like all ur cars ready w all the lights on.. STILL!!! So the have a new guy(never touched a hybrid ) he tells me after he reset the codes that initially was snoozing way as he said to get rid of them.. Jump in the car won't start making crazy noises. So I'm sent home in a jetta regular one wow what a difference. They send it to the shop and what do u know mechtronic unit is bad .. .. So I'm like no big deal I got factory warranty s extended warranty s I'm good ... 3000 to fix it... but wait a minute sir ur car is 3000 mile out of factory warranty and the 2500 warranty u just got doesn't cover the part... Crazy no love from the main VW either they don't give a F ... Sorry people no help at all .. better luck next time ... So yeah been driving it w engine only until I put my foot down ... somebody is paying for this and it isn't going to be me ...State Attorney, Lawyer ,,etc so yeah but I love the car sux cause I'll never buy from VW ever again...

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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4.5 out of 5 stars

a new kind of vehicle

may22, 05/28/2014
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful

brought my 2009 jetta into the dealer to resolve a problem , and while waiting browsed the show room and met a used dealer jetta hybrid on display , went for a demo drive and bought the demo 2013 jetta hybrid SEL . although the 2009 jetta is a great car to drive with plenty of torque , the hybrid is quieter , smother with a bunch of bells and whistles . and drives like a cloud , compared to the tdi jetta , and gets 49 -50 MPG. average for a month worth of driving averaged 47 MPG. although having to use premium gasoline (that is cheaper than diesel) the MPG is a little better than the TDI . of all the vehicles I have had over the many years the TDI was the most fun to drive. hybrid +

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5 out of 5 stars

Zippy hybrid

Greg, 11/30/2017
updated 06/01/2020
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful

This car drives like a sportier car than it looks. It is very comfortable. The gas engine has great pickup, and after getting used to the hybrid, the gas mileage is fantastic. The styling is less than eye-catching. In all, I love this car.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
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Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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2 out of 5 stars

Seems great, but....

Brett, 03/15/2019
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

First, I was really excited to get our Jetta Hybrid SEL. Has all the options and 42/48! Now the bad. Takes premium gas, we never get above 40mpg, it’s small inside and trunk, the switch between electric and gas is not smooth like our Highlander Hybrid, oh and the “dry” DSG transmission needed to be replaced out of warranty at 64,000 miles (VW will only warranty the new $7,000 transmission for one year too!). Pretty disappointed in VW that they haven’t recalled the transmission in the US. In other countries that uses the same transmission they have either recalled or extended warranties to 100,000 miles (US warranty ends at 60,000). Stay away from this car unless you want a major headache.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
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1 out of 5 stars

Don’t even think of it

PDX801 , 11/28/2021
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Transmission gone out twice, mechatronic unit gone out twice and VW tells me “boy that sucks. Good luck with that.”

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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1 out of 5 stars

Why I will never again buy a VW.

joshuawray17, 01/22/2022
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

The 2013 Jetta Hybrid SEL that I purchased was good for about a year. During that year, I observed great fuel economy, unreliable braking behavior, and a fairly comfortable ride. Less than a year into ownership, I experienced a fuel pump failure, which VW covered under warranty. I also left the car with the dealership three different times for inspection of the erratic braking system. When I say erratic braking, I mean that the regenerative braking would initiate upon pedal actuation, and would cut out with a noticeable lag (sometimes as much as a full second) before the hydraulic system would continue slowing the car. Many times, I would have a total fade-out of stopping performance only to be followed by near-panic stop performance. In many instances, I would come too close to the object with which I was trying to avoid a collision. This was under typical moderate use of the brakes. If the hybrid battery was near 100% SOC, the regen braking would cut abruptly and I was left counting my heartbeats before the hydraulic system accepted input from the pedal. This car may not be reliable, based upon the feedback from many customers, but it is definitely unsafe, and the basis for why I will never again purchase a VAG product.

Safety
1 out of 5 stars
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2 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars
Interior
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4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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2 out of 5 stars

It checked all the boxes til it checked out

Angry Andy, 10/06/2023
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Mechatronics (transmission) recall may or not apply to your vehicle. If it doesn't, run. Should the mechatronics fail you'll be facing a 7-10k repair. I'll never buy a VW product again due to this.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Great Hybrid almost 40 MPG

David Dean, 01/12/2018
updated 01/13/2020
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

Maintenance issue: replaced vacuum pump and relay (VW Technician said know problem), Great MPG (39.7), Winter mirage lower which is normal, Only regular oil changes which the first three were payed for by dealership/warrenty. Fun car to drive.

Safety
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5 out of 5 stars

Jetta SEL premium hybrid

Kellie Young, 02/21/2017
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
1 of 5 people found this review helpful

I love this car! I originally wanted a brand new Jetta and not the sedan or a hybrid but this was a great buy and really feels like a brand new car. (Except the previous owner WAS a male and heavily cologned...So the car still smells of cologne somewhat but starting to fade, thankfully) I actually really love it and am really glad I came upon your website. I wasn't planning on buying a car until the spring or fall if at all...But when I found this car through your site I just had to go check it out! I had never purchased a used car until now but I am sick of paying new car prices since the cars are never worth what you pay for them as soon as you drive them off the lot. I was very concerned about buying a previously owned car but after owning this car for just a month....So far I am very happy! It is the smallest amount of money I have ever in my life paid for a car and I have purchased 8 cars in my lifetime so far. It is Attractive...Drives smooth...Fast... Comfortable... Economical. It's just everything you would want in a car. My friend owns a BMW and I think this Jetta is very comparable in many ways and I didn't pay $50000.00 for it like they did their BMW. It was the smartest car purchase I have ever made. Thank you for being out there to aid all the people out searching for great buys!!!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

German engineering at it's best

Paul Brinkman, 08/29/2016
updated 03/05/2018
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid SEL Premium 4dr Sedan (1.4L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 7AM)
1 of 7 people found this review helpful

Better than the Hybrid civic or toyota prius

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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