Faults:

The air mass sensor was faulty.

The right rear window was scratched.

General Comments:

When I first purchased my Jetta GLS VR6, I was comparing it to my 325is BMW, and did not enjoy the handling. I found that the car had too much body roll. Even with the Sport package suspension & upgraded 17in wheels. I found that the BMW was much better and responsive.

So I did some research and fixed that problem by replacing the existing springs with Neuspeed Sport springs, not only did it improve the handling but it also improved the general look of the car. It was dropped 1.5 inches and didn't look like an SUV anymore. It drove like a BMW.

I then needed some more top end power so I replaced the existing air box with a Neuspeed P-flow kit and wow, what a difference. Now I could say there is an improvement in performance.

The car has one the most smoothest V6's that I have ever driven. And I also think it will beat a BMW 325is, 323ic no problem. I think VW has put everything into this fine automobile to compare it against its competitors. For the money I really think your getting a good bang for your buck. And for German engineering you're getting a good car.

In 2002 things will get even better once they modify the VR6 to a 24 valve power house pushing 201 hp as opposed to 174 hp. They have should of made this modification a long time ago. I even might sell my car to purchase a 2002 model. Anyway, I have to give VW tow thumbs up, GREAT JOB!!

Faults:

The overhead light switch broke.

The fuel door would not close completely.

Both problems were minor and fixed under warranty.

General Comments:

The seats are somewhat stiff and could use more lateral support.

The performance and luxury of this car both rivals and exceeds that of cars costing thousands of dollars more.

I have been thoroughly pleased with my ownership of this car.

Faults:

Electric blower died.

Front bumper color faded.

Fast car? I don't think so!

Engine burned oil excessively.

General Comments:

Engine burned 4 quarts of oil every 1000 miles. Smoke was coming out of the exhaust pipe. I cannot believe a car can be that bad quality.

It looked nice. It shined. Cool looking youngsters were driving it so my wife convinced me to buy a German car and give my 286k original mile Honda Accord some rest. Now why would I want to pay 25 dollars a month for 5 years for a car that is ready to go to the junkyard.

When I tried to put splash guards on it, the holes on the splash guards were not aligned with the ones on the body.

It sounds like a joke but whenever I contacted the dealer to get something fixed they told me it was normal for my car to do whatever it was doing. I don't think so.

Faults:

The instrumentation cluster (speedometer, tachometer, etc.) fails to illuminate when the lights are turned on, even after the dealer serviced this same issue 3 times.

General Comments:

Positives: Quick, nimble, comfortable, a true joy to drive.

Negatives: Did not expect to take the car in for a service for the same issue 4 times (it is currently at the dealer) within 6 weeks of purchasing the car. The dealership has been calling the "VW Tech Hotline" to help resolve this issue, but I am 1 step away from filing a Lemon Law Suit.

Faults:

The rear shock had to be replaced.

The clutch squeaks.

Hearing a whining noise from the engine when accelerating hard past 2000 - 2500 RPM.

General Comments:

Here is the question I pose to all you readers. The car apparently come equipped with ASR (Anti - Slip - Regulation) or in layman terms, traction control. However, when the tire starts to slip under hard acceleration when the clutch is not fully released, I hear quite a loud grinding sound coming from the transmission until I ease up on the accelerator or fully release the clutch. Is this normal???