2004 Volkswagen Jetta consumer reviews

I got this car used after selling my xxxxx. Pontiac Grand Am GT. General Motors seems to be really careless in their quality of their vehicles... I have to start out by saying that I love my Volkswagen Jetta. The leather seats are so plush and comfortable, even for myself (I am 5'11"). The turbocharged engine is really powerful and responsive and the automatic transmission works great. It has 5 gears, but I think it could use an extra gear to increase gas mileage, because when traveling on the highway (at about 75-80 MPH) the rpm ranges between 3,000 to 3,500--a bit high if you ask me. The design is absolutely flawless. It looks so elegant, yet so sporty at the same time. The optional 17" alloy wheels are a must--they really improve the look of the car. The sound system sounds great at any volume, and the heated leather gets nice and hot--fast! There are a couple things, however, that I would definitely change about the car. First off, a car with heated leather seats, I think, should come with power seats. The manual seats are kind of a pain, and it would definitely be a nice touch to have power seats. Also, automatic headlamps are not available for this year, and backseat space has a lot to be desired. Other than that, it is a great car. Watch out for those ignition coils though!! Mine went out the first week I had the car. It is a common problem that Volkswagen owners across the line experience in all of the Volkswagen models.

I like the interior of this vehicle, the controls are convenient and easy to use, the exterior is nice and easy to keep clean, but mechanically this car has been terrible. The clutch was replaced at 52k miles, the trunk pops open at random, the seatbelt snagged from being used daily, the engine temp is too low and it's in the shop often due to it not starting after being driven and then standing for a few minutes. The car check engine light comes at random and after being tested and shut off it turns on again and again and again. The quality of this car is not worth the money I paid for it.

I preface this review by saying that 3 years after buying this car, I still love it. The handling, power and extra features that come standard are very nice touches. Having said all that, VWs are known to have some small quality issues. Since owning mine, it's been in to have a problem with the dashboard display/odometer checked and I just had to replace one of the electronic lock modules on a door at a cost of about $400. I personally believe these issues would go away to a degree if VW would move its production to areas where cars are more commonly produced. At the price point at which they come, I think people expect a relatively high degree of reliability.

Tdi's are great cars. Hopes VW will bring more from Europe in next 10 years. Intersting, powerfull and very high low rpm torque. My car - on my sportive way to drive burns about 42 mpg! Town plus AC on. A littele bit expensive as a pinitial price but worth all the money. Reliable is another word. Thanks, Paul

Could use more back seat room but I think they fixed that with the new model. Runs well, handles well and looks great. We really enjoy our 04 Jetta

I have a Wagon, it is fun to drive with lots of high end power. This car sticks to the road. The back seat is a little tight for 2 adults but not all that bad for kids. It is a great run around town car, with plenty of cargo room. I have had no problems with this car. I love the VW keys. Not a bad second car to have.

This car handles very well, though I think the engine (which is surprisingly quiet) may be a bit too powerful for the car. The ride is not terribly smooth. The car is quick, with great acceleration and very stable on turns. If you're not overly concerned with rear legroom for three people (with two it seems fine) the car is very comfortable. With the leather interior it's luxurious in that sporty, German way. It also has a very large trunk with rear seats that fold down; this makes it a very practical car for someone who needs to carry lots of stuff. Overall, a really fun drive in a comfortable and practical small sedan.

This vehicle handles well, and good performance with the higher models. This car is a great car to start out with although it is pricey, its safe, and not too fast for a new driver.