2013 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen is extra equipment for the S trim, led by a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and an upgraded trip-computer display. Otherwise, this is a quiet carryover year with the same design, engines, and trim lineup.
About the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen
Golf-based Jetta SportWagen generation sold in the U.S. for 2010-2014; 2013 is the next-to-last year of that run.
Volkswagen positions the Jetta SportWagen as a compact wagon for drivers who want car-like road manners and a lot of usable space without moving to a taller SUV. Its core appeal is practical cargo room, easy loading, and a more European wagon feel than most compact rivals. In 2013 it still stood out by pairing that wagon body with either the 2.5-liter gas engine or the torque-rich TDI diesel, giving the model a broader personality than most small wagons sold here.
The S is the straightforward gas-powered wagon, while the SE adds synthetic leather seating, chrome trim, and a 10-speaker touchscreen audio system. The TDI is the long-distance version, pairing the SE-level cabin with a turbo-diesel engine that delivers stronger low-speed pull and excellent highway range.
What changed, by category
2013 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 5-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 5-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 5-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 5-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto 6-Spd w/Tptrnc & Spt | Auto 6-Spd w/Tptrnc & Spt | Auto 6-Spd DSG Tptrnc Spt |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Diesel |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 29 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 31–33 mpg | 31 mpg | 37 mpg |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 170 hp | 140 hp |
| Torque | 177 lb-ft | 177 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 66.9 cu-ft | 66.9 cu-ft | 66.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.5 in | 35.5 in | 35.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| SD Card Slot | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen compared with the 2012 model?
The 2013 model receives only a small equipment update. The S trim gains a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and an upgraded trip-computer display, while the rest of the lineup largely carries over.
Was the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen redesigned?
No, the 2013 Jetta SportWagen was not redesigned. Its body, front-end styling, structure, suspension layout, and cargo-focused wagon shape carry over from 2012.
Did the 2013 Jetta SportWagen get new engines?
No, the engines carry over for 2013. Gas models use the 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, while the TDI uses the 2.0-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder.
What trims does the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen have?
The 2013 lineup keeps the S, SE, and TDI trim structure. The S is the practical gas model, the SE is the more upscale gas version, and the TDI emphasizes diesel efficiency and long-distance driving.
Is the 2013 Jetta SportWagen much different from the 2012 model?
No, the 2013 Jetta SportWagen is very similar to the 2012 model. Its main difference is added equipment on the S trim rather than a new design, engine, safety system, or model-wide technology upgrade.