Faults:

The ignition coil blew which caused the car to stop while I was driving (coil replaced)

A different ignition coil blew which caused the car to stop while I was driving (coil replaced)

Car was shaking, ignition coils were about to blow (all 4 coils replaced)

Car shaking again! Same problem with ignition coils.

Radio blew.

After they fixed the radio it was scratchy.

Air conditioner did not work from side vents.

Clock stopped working.

General Comments:

This car is an accident waiting to happen.

I bought my car in Feb. 2002 and I have had nothing but problems since I bought it.

The coil problem kept on re-occurring and could have resulted in a serious accident if my car stopped on the highway.

The dealership was great and ended up taking back the car and giving me back the full price.

I DO NOT recommend this car because of the safety problem with the ignition coils.

Faults:

The radio fuse blew after three weeks.

The gas flap cover would not close and lock.

A vibration buzzing noise above the center vents.

General Comments:

The problems first encountered have all been rectified by the dealership. It took three attempts to correct the noise in the dash, but was finally solved. The dash assembly was removed, and all possible contact points between materials were re-insulated.

This is one amazingly fast car. With the torque kicking in at 1,950 rpm, it gives you a launch like no other in it's class, or classes above. Even at good highway speeds, a little step to the gas gives another very positive pull on the car.

The suspension and tires are a very decent middle of the road compromise for most drivers. In retrospect, I think I may have enjoyed the sport suspension. This can still be accomplished at the dealership, at a quoted price that struck me as very reasonable.

Braking is good, but I've heard there are performance rotors and pads out there for my Jetta.

The tiptronic is something I've toyed with, but I feel it is slow to shift in this mode. A very useful tool however in poor driving conditions, as you can down shift more effectively for engine braking.

When I did my market research on this car, it suggested that I might have some minor problems that I would never experience in the Toyota's I've been driving. I was however, looking for more of a driving experience that I had heard Volkswagen was delivering. Mission accomplished, when trading up for the Jetta. I actually enjoy driving again.

Wish there was 4motion available here like there is in Europe.

Faults:

Nothing is wrong with the car. The famous window regulator problem has not appeared yet and even if it did, VW of North America is offering free regulator replacement (new metal parts replacing the plastic ones).

General Comments:

Coupled with the tiptronic transmission, the 180hp 1.8T (turbo) is one fast machine. Handling it tight, responsive, predictable and communicative. Build quality is the best I've seen. Interior materials are like those found in BMW and MB cars. Exterior fit and finish top notch. Beautifull solid driver with a soul of a sprinter. After 1000 miles, I still can't wipe the grin off my face every time I take it for a ride.