2016-2018 Volkswagen Jetta 2.0L

Overview

The 2016-2018 Volkswagen Jetta represents the final years of the sixth generation of the German automaker’s compact sedan. Built on the PQ35 platform, this iteration of the Jetta was designed to cater specifically to the preferences of the North American market, prioritizing interior space and cost-effectiveness. Manufactured primarily at the Volkswagen de México plant in Puebla, the vehicle served as a high-volume entry point for the brand, balancing traditional European driving dynamics with the practical requirements of American consumers.

During this production window, the Jetta underwent a transition in its powertrain offerings. The 2.0L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine served as the base powerplant, providing a reliable and straightforward option for budget-conscious buyers. While the model faced stiff competition from Japanese and Korean rivals, it maintained a loyal following due to its solid build quality, composed highway ride, and understated styling. By 2018, the model was preparing for the transition to the MQB platform, marking the end of a long-standing chapter in the Jetta’s history.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Jetta
Model Year	2016-2018
Generation	6th (A6)
Trim	S
Body Style	4-Door Sedan
Vehicle Segment	Compact
Vehicle Class	Compact Cars
Market	USA
Platform	PQ35
Assembly Plant	Puebla, Mexico
Country of Origin	Mexico
Production Start	2011
Production End	2018
VIN Identifier	3VW
Base MSRP	$18,500
Destination Charge	$850
Total MSRP	$19,350
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	EA113
Engine Name	2.0L I4
Engine Code	CBPA
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	2.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke	82.5 mm x 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio	10.3:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Multi-point Injection
Valve Train	SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	4.8 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 502 00 / 5W-40
Horsepower	115 hp @ 5,200 rpm
Torque	125 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Redline	6,000 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (AM-S6)
Final Drive Ratio	3.87:1
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	24
EPA Highway MPG	33
EPA Combined MPG	27
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	8.7 L/100 km
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	14.5
Estimated Driving Range	435 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$1,650
CO₂ Emissions	325 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score	5
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	3.5 seconds
0-60 mph	10.2 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	17.8 seconds
Top Speed	118 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.81g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	0.04 hp/lb
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	182.8
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	70.0
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	77.8
Height (in)	57.2
Wheelbase (in)	104.4
Front Track (in)	60.4
Rear Track (in)	60.3
Ground Clearance (in)	5.4
Curb Weight (lbs)	2,939
GVWR (lbs)	4,100
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,160
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	94.1
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	15.7
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
Turning Circle	36.4 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4 Stars
IIHS Award	Top Safety Pick
Small Overlap Front	Good
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	Marginal
Front Crash Prevention	Basic
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	5.0-inch Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	Yes (2016+)
Android Auto	Yes (2016+)
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	4-Speaker
Speaker Count	4
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	1 year/10,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Silao, Mexico
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	1st: 4.04, 2nd: 2.37, 3rd: 1.56, 4th: 1.16, 5th: 0.85, 6th: 0.67
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	7.4 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	165
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

In the used car market, the 2016-2018 Jetta 2.0L is recognized for its mechanical simplicity, which often translates to lower maintenance costs compared to the more complex turbocharged variants of the same era. While the 2.0L engine is not known for high performance, it is generally durable if the timing belt and basic fluid services are performed at recommended intervals. Prospective buyers should inspect the vehicle for common issues such as premature suspension component wear and potential electrical gremlins within the infotainment system. Overall, this Jetta remains a practical choice for budget-conscious commuters who value a solid chassis and a comfortable, stable highway driving experience over raw power or cutting-edge technology.