The 2 most attractive aspects of the Jetta TDI models would have to be their fuel-sipping diesel engines (very unusual in the U.S. market) and their extensive safety features. These will be the focus of the following review.
Diesel Virtues
Diesel engines are more fuel efficient than gas engines. In fact,
the wagon version of the Jetta TDI (diesel engine) with manual transmission is the most fuel efficient wagon on the road. It is right up there with the Japanese hybrids in highway miles per gallon. My own mileage for the first few tanks, in mixed city/highway driving with the AC running most of the time, has been hovering around 40 mpg. This may improve as the engine gets broken in. But keep in mind that the 2004 models tend to get slightly poorer fuel economy than older models, because this year's TDIs come with an upgraded, more powerful engine.
In addition to offering great fuel economy, diesel engines are said to be more durable than gas engines. They also provide lots of low end torque, which means you can drive at relatively low rpms without lugging the engine. All this comes without nearly as much noise, smell, or pollution as older diesel engines. After the initial oil change at 5000 miles, you can go 10000 miles between changes. VW does specify a special variety of synthetic engine oil, which recently ran me about $8 a quart. However, the car requires no tune-ups at all (since it lacks the ignition system found in gas-powered cars).
Note that there is some debate about the "green" credentials of the modern diesel engines. They tend to compare well to gassers in CO and CO2 emissions, but not so well in terms of smog-forming NOx emissions. Die-hard environmentalists would suggest a hybrid is still a cleaner choice. If you just want to save money on fuel, and like the idea of helping to reduce America's dependence on foreign oil, then you should test drive a diesel. They will even run on 100% "biodiesel", a processed form of vegetable oil, though VW is discouraging this practice as yet.
Safety Features
The Jettas have a sporty look and feel. This has encouraged me to drive a little more exuberantly than I have in the past. So it's fortunate that Jettas have performed well in crash tests, and come with one of the best standard safety packages around. ABS is standard, along with front air bags and head curtain side air bags. The Electronic Stability Program (skid protection) also is widely available for $280, far below what some other cars charge for a similar feature (if they make it available at all.) ESP is desirable because it helps control "yaw", that is, the tendency for the rear end to spin around when you go into a skid. Of course, you still need to exercise restraint and not get carried away with how much fun these cars are to drive.
Other Things I Like
There are nice little touches such as a telescoping steering column. I like the handy tool compartments under the cargo floor, and the little prop that supports that floor when you open it up. The hood is on heavy springs so it does not need a prop at all when you raise it. You get a full sized spare, and a roof rack even in the base GL trim.
Weak Points
The rear seats are too cramped for anyone over about 5'10" or so.
There are no pockets in the back of the front seats. And, for a car that gets such great fuel mileage, it would be nice to have a trip computer.
Be aware, too, that Consumer Reports has not been giving VWs high marks for reliability. For what it's worth, the Jetta wagons (unlike the sedans) are still assembled in Germany. Based on comments on some of the VW forums, it sounds like VW has addressed some of the issues with power windows and ignition coils (and the latter didn't affect diesels anyway). So I went ahead and purchased despite these concerns. I have found no defects in the delivered car.
Conclusions
I'm really enjoying this car.
It is just about the most fun-to-drive car I've had since the '64 Mustang I learned to drive on. It's great for errands around town, or for long haul commuting, though it does not offer quite the size or seat comfort you might want for a long family trip.
Comment on Aftermarket Radio
Despite what another reviewer wrote, I did have an aftermarket stereo "head unit" installed. I talked it over with my local dealer first, and he assured me that if I had it done by a specific shop that was aware of the issues, I'd be o.k. The important thing is to get the right wiring harness, one that will not interfere with on-board diagnostics.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 19,577
Condition: New Model Year: 2004 Model and Options: GL manual
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