Overview
The 2013-2014 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen represents the final years of the A5-platform-based wagon in the North American market. While the sedan version of the Jetta transitioned to the newer A6 platform, the SportWagen retained the sophisticated multi-link rear suspension and higher-quality interior materials associated with the previous generation. This decision provided a more refined driving experience compared to its sedan counterpart, positioning the vehicle as a premium alternative in the small wagon segment.
Manufactured in Puebla, Mexico, the SportWagen was engineered to bridge the gap between compact hatchbacks and larger crossover SUVs. Its primary appeal centered on the availability of the 2.0-liter TDI Clean Diesel engine, which offered a unique combination of high torque and exceptional highway fuel efficiency. This powertrain made the vehicle a popular choice for long-distance commuters and families seeking a practical, fuel-conscious transport solution without the bulk of a traditional SUV.
Throughout its production run, the Jetta SportWagen maintained a reputation for solid build quality and European-style road manners. By the 2014 model year, it stood as a distinct offering in the Volkswagen lineup, eventually being succeeded by the Golf SportWagen. Its legacy remains tied to its status as one of the last true compact wagons sold in the United States, valued by enthusiasts for its cargo versatility and the efficiency of its diesel powertrain.
| Vehicle Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta SportWagen |
| Model Year | 2013-2014 |
| Generation | A5 (Typ 1K) |
| Trim | TDI |
| Body Style | 5-door Wagon |
| Vehicle Segment | Compact |
| Vehicle Class | Small Station Wagons |
| Market | USA |
| Platform | PQ35 |
| Assembly Plant | Puebla, Mexico |
| Country of Origin | Mexico |
| Production Start | 2009 |
| Production End | 2014 |
| VIN Identifier | 3VW |
| Base MSRP | $26,000 |
| Destination Charge | $820 |
| Total MSRP | $26,820 |
| Powertrain | |
| Powertrain Type | Internal Combustion Engine (Diesel) |
| Engine Family | EA189 |
| Engine Name | 2.0L TDI CR |
| Engine Code | CBEA / CJAA |
| Engine Configuration | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 2.0 Liters |
| Bore x Stroke | 81.0 mm x 95.5 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged |
| Fuel Delivery | Common Rail Direct Injection |
| Valve Train | DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder |
| Engine Block Material | Cast Iron |
| Cylinder Head Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Oil Capacity | 4.3 Quarts |
| Oil Specification / Viscosity | VW 507.00 / 5W-30 |
| Horsepower | 140 hp @ 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Automatic (AM-S6) DSG |
| Final Drive Ratio | – |
| Axle Ratio | – |
| Fuel Economy | |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Recommended Octane | – |
| EPA City MPG | 29 |
| EPA Highway MPG | 37 |
| EPA Combined MPG | 32 |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) | 14.5 |
| Estimated Driving Range | 536 Miles |
| Annual Fuel Cost | $1,650 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 340 g/mile |
| Greenhouse Gas Score | 5 |
| Smog Rating | 3 |
| Performance | |
| 0-30 mph | 3.2 s |
| 0-60 mph | 8.7 s |
| 0-100 mph | 24.5 s |
| Quarter Mile | 16.7 s |
| Top Speed | 125 mph |
| Braking Distance (60-0 mph) | 128 ft |
| Lateral Acceleration | 0.82 g |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 0.043 hp/lb |
| Dimensions & Capacities | |
| Length (in) | 179.4 |
| Width (Without Mirrors) (in) | 70.1 |
| Width (With Mirrors) (in) | – |
| Height (in) | 59.2 |
| Wheelbase (in) | 101.5 |
| Front Track (in) | 60.4 |
| Rear Track (in) | 60.3 |
| Ground Clearance (in) | 5.4 |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 3,300 |
| GVWR (lbs) | 4,500 |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | 1,000 |
| Payload Capacity (lbs) | 1,200 |
| Passenger Volume (cu ft) | 90.0 |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) | 32.8 |
| Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft) | 66.9 |
| Turning Circle | 35.8 ft |
| Approach Angle | – |
| Departure Angle | – |
| Breakover Angle | – |
| Safety Ratings | |
| NHTSA Overall Rating | 4 Stars |
| NHTSA Frontal Crash | 4 Stars |
| NHTSA Side Crash | 5 Stars |
| NHTSA Rollover | 4 Stars |
| IIHS Award | Top Safety Pick |
| Small Overlap Front | – |
| Moderate Overlap Front | Good |
| Side Impact | Good |
| Headlights Rating | – |
| Front Crash Prevention | – |
| Technology & Connectivity | |
| Infotainment Display | 6.5-inch Touchscreen |
| Instrument Cluster | Analog with Multi-function Display |
| Apple CarPlay | No |
| Android Auto | No |
| Navigation System | Optional |
| Audio System | Premium Sound System |
| Speaker Count | 8 |
| Wireless Charging | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | No |
| OTA Updates | No |
| Digital Key | No |
| Warranty & Ownership | |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Corrosion Warranty | 12 years / 120,000 miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Specs.Autos Exclusive Data | |
| Engine Assembly Plant | Salzgitter, Germany |
| Transmission Supplier | BorgWarner (DSG) |
| Gear Ratios | – |
| Differential Type | Open with EDL |
| Cooling System Capacity | 8.5 Quarts |
| Roof Load Capacity (lbs) | 165 |
| Safety Recall Count | – |
| Production Volume | – |
| Units Sold in USA | – |
Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The 2013-2014 Jetta SportWagen TDI remains a sought-after vehicle for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and cargo utility. Reliability is generally strong for the powertrain, though owners should be aware of the specific maintenance requirements for the DSG automatic transmission, which necessitates fluid changes every 40,000 miles to prevent premature wear. Common issues often involve the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems, particularly if the vehicle is used primarily for short-distance city driving. Prospective buyers should verify that all emissions-related software updates and hardware modifications mandated by the manufacturer’s settlement have been performed, as these can impact long-term engine performance and fuel economy. Despite these considerations, the vehicle’s robust chassis and high-torque diesel engine offer a driving experience that is difficult to replicate in modern compact crossovers, maintaining its status as a practical, high-value choice in the used market.
