Faults:

When I picked the car up, the power seat memory system was not programmed correctly. Nothing was actually wrong, it just was not set up prior to delivery. Otherwise, the car has been great.

General Comments:

I really enjoy this car, it has good power and mileage. I've heard a couple people say their mileage with the 5 cylinder isn't great, but I average 25-26 mpg-US (~9.5 L/100 km) around town and 30-32 mpg-US (7.6 L/100 km) on the expressway. Handling is excellent, the electric power steering gives just the right amount of assist. The ride is firm, but controlled, the interior is comfortable, and the car is quiet.

Features abound in my car, from the dual zone automatic climate control, to the trip computer. The quality of the materials is first rate. It has numerous "easter eggs" such as the wipers adjusting themselves every few trips at shut off to reduce wear.

I was initially surprised at the cost of servicing due to the requirement of synthetic oil. However, a careful investigation reveals there is no significant difference, as the recommended oil change interval is 10,000 miles (16,000 km) instead of the standard 3,000 (5,000 km). Comparing the price of $90 and $30 for the standard versus synthetic oil respectively, it's a wash.

Overall, I really enjoy the car and hope to keep it for many more years.

Faults:

Air bag, air bag light, brake lights, ignition system, battery died many time, paint peeled, engine light keeps coming on, too many noises... sounds cheap like a Ford.

General Comments:

I'm another disappointed Jetta owner. I got the start up engine noise fixed and then the check engine light came on. This was fixed.

The air bag light came on. Once that was fixed it was good for 3 months until our brake lights stayed on 100% of the time, even when the car was off. This was then fixed.

My dead battery was replaced (after A LOT of haggling with VW when it was under "warranty") and 2 month later I get rear-ended because my tail-lights were stuck on again and the guy behind me just ignored them.

Great job Volkswagen! I'll never be coming back!

Faults:

Interior is very noisy at low and moderate speed.

Driver's side back door panel was loose upon delivery of vehicle.

The diesel engine has average to poor acceleration from a dead stop.

General Comments:

Overall the car is fun to drive. It handles very well and you feel like you have complete control. This car handles like a sports car with very little play in the steering and tight brakes. The feel of the road and bumps are transmitted to the interior of the car this gives one the feeling of control like that of a sports car, but for some the ride might feel a little rough, especially on long trips. Acceleration from a dead stop is below what I would expect for a car this size. However, this diesel engine has a lot of power even at speeds of 80-90 mph. I have found myself driving at 100 mph without realizing it and it could go faster.

Interior is very comfortable with seat warmers and fairly spacious.

The sound system is great with a CD player and satellite radio option.