NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2026 Volkswagen Jetta
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Volkswagen Jetta is a compact sedan aimed at buyers who want a European-flavored driving experience without stepping up to a premium price point. Competing against stalwarts like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Jetta targets commuters and young professionals who prioritize a composed, refined cabin over outright sportiness. Our 2019-to-2025 coverage spans a generation that has been largely consistent in its positioning and safety hardware.
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 90 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 1 recall on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the Jetta as one of the more polished and upscale-feeling options in the compact sedan segment, praising its composed ride, mature interior presentation, and highway refinement. Most note that it competes respectably against higher-volume rivals while delivering a distinctly European character, though some suggest its feature content and powertrain options lag slightly behind segment leaders.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 21040
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING26V138000
Risk: An open circuit may draw a higher current and increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair transmission ground wire as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 31, 2026. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 97TC. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on March 13, 2026.
Reported 2026-03-11
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
3 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.