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The Volkswagen models in this guide are innovative, spacious, and versatile. Each has its strengths and often tops lists for commutes, road trips, carpools, adventures, and more. For example, the Golf is compact yet practical for driving in cities. The Jetta boasts exquisite features while retaining nimble handling. The Taos rivals the maneuverability of a sedan while offering quite a bit more cargo space. The Tiguan offers compact comfort but also sports an optional third row (depending on model year). The Atlas is a family-oriented beast that can serve you well as your family grows and moves around.
If you're looking for pre-owned Volkswagen cars in the Atlanta, GA, area, you've got a wide range of choices. From the first Beetle to the latest ID.4 EV, a used Volkswagen exceeds expectations in any class. However, five models tend to stand above this standout crowd: the Golf, Jetta, Taos, Tiguan, and Atlas. Read on and find out which is right for you as we compare some of the best used VW vehicles available, then visit Jim Ellis Volkswagen of Chamblee to test-drive your winner.
Even if you're not as familiar with the other used Volkswagen vehicles, you likely know the Golf. That's because it's one of the most successful European cars of all time;1 over 37 million have been sold as of 2024, meaning a VW Golf has been purchased somewhere in the world every 41 seconds since its 1974 debut.1
The Golf came about to bring the spirit of the Beetle into the modern world – fun-loving, affordable for anyone, and offering small but practical transportation. In doing so, it reshaped the classic, lovably round body into a sharp and clean hatchback courtesy of Italian design master Giorgetto Giugiaro. And that's not even mentioning the still-raging performance-hatchback war it arguably started in 1976.
Today, the Golf is a prime used Volkswagen hatchback, offering all you could want in a car for a price that's remarkably low.
Golf hatchbacks have a smooth silhouette, comprising an elongated front end that flows to the back, which showcases a spacious rear cargo area that defies size expectations. This model is styled with crisp accent lines (similar to Giugiaro's 1974 masterpiece) and front and rear fascias that are simultaneously friendly and aggressive.
A used Volkswagen Golf can fit five people. The 2020 model, for example, offers an SUV-sized 93.5 cubic feet of passenger volume and 53.7 cubic feet of total cargo volume. As the American-market Golf was discontinued in 2021 (excluding GTI and Golf R variants), you can find incredible feature-based value. The final model year even rolled its regular trims into one, bringing an awesome package of standard amenities.
VW Golf hatchbacks come in various forms, with late-model editions offering various engine and transmission options. FWD was the most recent standard drivetrain, but AWD was available for many model years.
Here's a look at two of the offered engines:
According to RepairPal.com, the Volkswagen Golf has a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.03 and an average annual repair cost of $630;3 the industry average is $652,3 meaning that the Golf is above-average for service costs.
Safety is also an above-average aspect of the Golf. For example, the 2019 VW Golf has a five-star NHTSA safety rating.4 Many other model years also earn this top score.4
Used VW Golf For SaleRemember back in the 1990s when pure-gasoline cars could reach fuel efficiency levels akin to today's hybrid vehicles? The Jetta continues to prioritize an economical ownership journey, reaching close to hybrid-level EPA-estimated MPG numbers – and, in some cases, offering that same level of hybrid technology itself! It blends excellent fuel economy with modern safety, technology, and performance, offering you the full package for utter driving enjoyment.
From its debut model year of 1979 to today, the Volkswagen Jetta has been the perfect choice for families and solo drivers alike. It's an agile sedan that brings some fun back to your daily ride without needing to compromise on anything your wish list contains. You'll be in for a treat when you choose a Jetta.
Focusing on the Jetta sedan's seventh generation, we see a masterclass in the steadfast yet innovative German design philosophy. It's styled with aerodynamics in mind; incredible fuel efficiency is a product of this focus, but an eye-catching design accompanies you on every drive. As it continues to evolve, it could become truly one of a kind while retaining the signature Volkswagen aesthetic.
Inside, you'll find immense space for a sedan; a used 2022 Volkswagen Jetta, for example, offers five seats, 94.7 cubic feet of passenger volume, and a 14.1 cubic-foot trunk. It also boasts top features for the segment and price, including available heated and ventilated front seats with leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a 10.25-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro display, wireless smartphone charging, and much more.
A used Volkswagen Jetta is a lot like the Golf. But, it has newer model years to explore and a sleeker sedan body to satisfy your style, though at the cost of some cargo space.
The Jetta is a blast to drive. It's one of the only modern sedans to offer a manual transmission (in select variants) and one of the only pure-gasoline cars that can deliver over 40 MPG on the highway.2 When you shop for a recent-model-year used Volkswagen Jetta, you can find the following engine options and specs:
The Jetta GLI, previously a trim level and now a separate model, runs on its own engine:
Like the Golf, the Volkswagen Jetta has above-average reliability. It ties its hatchback brother with a RepairPal reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0,3 but wins the Jetta vs. Golf comparison with an average annual repair cost of $609.3
Safety is another tie with the Golf; for instance, the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta also has a five-star NHTSA safety rating.4
Used VW Jetta For SaleDid you know that the Taos was designed specifically for America? It debuted for the 2021 model year and has since proved immensely popular for its ideal balance of SUV versatility and affordability.
It's become an icon of the small sport-ute segment, and not just for its good looks. A used Volkswagen Taos packs ample cargo room, state-of-the-art safety features, and desirable luxuries into its agile body, bringing you the best of a sedan's ride quality and an SUV's capability.
As a spry SUV, the Taos can be a great VW model for families who take on city streets more frequently than the highway. However, on long road trips, the Taos can also satisfy larger-than-life accommodations.
For example, a used 2024 Volkswagen Taos can seat five with 99.5 cubic feet of passenger space. It has 37.9 inches of rear legroom to keep second-row riders comfortable, 40.1 inches of front legroom for you and your copilot, and up to 27.9 cubic feet of standard cargo space to bring everything along. Fold the second row to create a maximum of 65.9 cubic feet of storage room. Using its size to great effect, a 2024 Taos handles city-street maneuvers with a curb-to-curb turning circle of 35.1 feet.
At the time of this writing, all used Volkswagen Taos variants sport the same engine. The Taos SUV's specs are as follows:
As the Taos continues to grow and adapt to an SUV-loving U.S. marketplace, its audience is realizing just how capable it is as a long-term commuter and family companion.
Since it is newer, there is no reliability data from RepairPal as of yet. However, it receives good scores from J.D. Power for several model years, including 80/100 for Quality and Reliability.5 Plus, the 2022 Taos earns top marks in numerous IIHS tests, including a "Superior" front crash prevention rating.6
Used VW Taos For SaleIntroduced as a 2009 model-year SUV, the Tiguan slots between the Taos and the Atlas in the modern VW lineup. It's also one of the only compact SUVs with third-row seating, an option that was available from the 2018 to 2024 models. The third-generation Tiguan debuted for the 2025 edition, sporting a two-row only layout.
You can typically find pre-owned Tiguan models in our inventory. Sometimes, you may even come across options in our selection of used vehicles under $20K. This master of versatility is ready to introduce you to a new world of daily-driving enjoyment.
A used Tiguan is a bit longer than a used Taos, with the 2023 model reaching 186.1 inches in length. It offers up to 124 cubic feet of passenger room in three-row trims and a maximum of 73.4 cubic feet of cargo room in two-row models. You can also tow with your VW Tiguan, with capacities ranging depending on model year and engine; thanks to the revised powertrain, the third generation can tow up to 1,800 pounds when properly equipped.
With a curb-to-curb turning circle of 37.7 feet (based on the 2023 model), a used Volkswagen Tiguan is only slightly less mobile than a pre-owned Taos.
The Tiguan is more powerful than the Taos, and it can tow, but it delivers lower MPG. A used Volkswagen Tiguan can have one of these engines; there are older variations as well:
As a long-running VW SUV nameplate, the Tiguan has plenty of fans ready and willing to talk about their experiences with this compact innovation. Various model years receive a "Great" J.D. Power Quality and Reliability score, as well as a "Great" Resale Value rating.5 The same applies to five-star NHTSA safety scores, which editions like the 2020 and 2021 models earn.4 The 2019, 2022, and 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan SUVs can take your confidence even further, as all were IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award winners.6
Used VW Tiguan For SaleThe biggest, most spacious, and most capable SUV often found in our used Volkswagen inventory, the Atlas is a midsize SUV that was designed with American families in mind. It was introduced for the 2018 model year, serving as a replacement for the Volkswagen Touareg, the previous family SUV available from the VW lineup.
As the successor to the Touareg, the Atlas rode in with some of the most premium features of the lineup, including LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen. With aggressive yet smooth styling, the three-row VW Atlas is certainly worth your consideration as a pre-owned option.
Among our VW pre-owned specials and inventory, the Atlas offers the most room. Take the 2021 VW Atlas as an example: It has 154 cubic feet of passenger volume and up to 96.8 cubic feet of cargo space. It also provides 37.6 inches of second-row and 33.7 inches of third-row legroom. While more spacious, the Atlas features a 200.7-inch long body and a 40.5-foot curb-to-curb turning circle, making it a little less maneuverable than its siblings.
If you're looking for a powerful and capable used Volkswagen SUV, the Atlas is for you. It comes to life with two engine options:
The VW Atlas consistently receives "Great" scores in both Resale Value and Driving Experience from J.D. Power.5 According to RepairPal, it has a single reported problem at the time of this writing.3
For confidence on the road, it boasts an IIHS Top Safety Pick award and a five-star NHTSA rating for several consecutive model years.6,4
Used VW Atlas For SaleLet's take a look at the kind of driver that each of these five models, typically found at Jim Ellis Volkswagen of Chamblee, best suits.
Best Used VW Cars Overview |
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Seating Capacity | Fuel Efficiency | Best For: | ||
| VW Golf | Hatchback | 5 | Excellent | City drivers | |
| VW Jetta | Sedan | 5 | Excellent | Daily commuters | |
| VW Taos | SUV | 5 | High | Solo drivers or couples | |
| VW Tiguan | SUV | 5-7 | Moderate | Small to medium families | |
| VW Atlas | SUV | 7-8 | Moderate | Large families | |
An important aspect of Volkswagen ownership that you may want to prepare for is car care. See what you can expect in terms of used VW maintenance:
We've already looked at the individual reliability ratings of these pre-owned Volkswagen cars – how does the brand overall stack up?
Pre-owned VW reliability stems into the certified pre-owned market. Each of our certified pre-owned Volkswagen vehicles comes with two years of 24/7 roadside assistance,10 a CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™, and a passing grade of a thorough, 100-point inspection.
The VW certified pre-owned benefits don't end there. A 2020 model year or newer certified Volkswagen comes backed by a two-year/24,000-mile Certified Limited Warranty.11 Following a $50 deductible, covered repairs come at no additional charge.11
Purchasing a used VW vehicle is a smart investment. If you're interested, feel free to browse our current pre-owned inventory, and don't hesitate to reach out with any questions. We look forward to serving you here at Jim Ellis Volkswagen of Chamblee.
Viewing a CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™ is a great way to know if a used VW vehicle has been well-maintained. This comprehensive report includes the car's service history, reported accidents, and more. Choosing from our certified selection is another way for you to ensure that your used Volkswagen is in great shape; review the many VW certified pre-owned benefits now.
Two primary things you should consider when buying a pre-owned VW car are your budget and needs to ensure your purchase aligns with what you're looking for. It's also important to consider the history of the model, which can be assessed via a CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™ or similar. Rest assured that we also vet each used Volkswagen we sell.
The certified pre-owned vs. used VW conversation is common at dealerships like Jim Ellis Volkswagen of Chamblee. Certified vehicles are a better choice to buy if quality assurance and warranty coverage are priorities. A regular pre-owned Volkswagen will typically involve lower prices than a certified model. Plus, there are often more vehicles to choose from in a standard used selection.
Yes, the Volkswagen Tiguan is an excellent pick for a pre-owned SUV. It's sized right, meaning it has both competent cargo space and good maneuverability. It is also offered in two- and three-row configurations, depending on the model year. Importantly, nearly every Tiguan model year receives rave reviews for safety and reliability.
Any used Volkswagen SUV can work fantastically for families, but we like the additional versatility provided by the Atlas. This midsize sport-ute is guaranteed to have three rows and flexible cargo space, no matter the model year or trim. It also has dynamic safety technology and premium amenities, so everyone will be well protected and comfortable.
From our assessment above, the used VW model that's best on gas is the Jetta – and that's just reviewing its gasoline-powered variants, as hybrid editions have also been available throughout its lifetime. This car is well-known for its excellent fuel efficiency. The VW Golf trails close behind.
| Used Volkswagen Golf Cross Sport For Sale | Used Volkswagen Atlas For Sale |
| Used Volkswagen Golf For Sale | Used Volkswagen Jetta For Sale |
| Used Volkswagen Passat For Sale | Used Volkswagen Tiguan For Sale |
1For details, please visit: https://www.volkswagen-newsroom.com/en/press-releases/eight-generations-in-50-years-the-year-2024-is-all-about-the-golf-at-volkswagen-18025.
2Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov.
3Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com.
4Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/.
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org.
7When properly equipped.
8Reference to this third-party review/claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For more details, please visit https://caredge.com/ranks/maintenance#:~:text=Table_title:%20The%20Least%20Expensive%20Brands%20to%20Maintain,%7C%2010%20Year%20Maintenance%20Cost:%20$6%2C799%20%7C.
9Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/which-brands-make-the-best-used-cars-a2811658468/.
10Whichever time/mileage designation comes first. Roadside Assistance services provided by third-party providers for vehicles with an eligible service plan, subject to limitations and restrictions. Roadside Assistance is not a warranty; refer to the vehicle's Owner's Handbook for warranty details. Excludes costs for repairs, parts, labor, property loss, and expenses from accidents, abuse, racing, vandalism, and certain other conditions. Contact our dealership for details.
11Whichever time/mileage designation comes first. Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
