1999 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 2.0 from North America
Summary:
A perfect balance of practicality and fun
Faults:
Oxygen Sensor, Mass Airflow Sensor, Wiring Harness replaced under recall.
Right side of cup holder is broken, doesn't hold cups that well. I took care if it myself, though.
Turn Signal assembly broke off.
Shifter Knob popped off a few days after driving the car home.
Hard to keep the interior clean, as dust and fur tend to 'stick' to the seats.
Passenger AC Vents broke (doesn't close flush and you have to push the slats to open it)
Various squeaking and rattles throughout the interior.
Hard to open the middle console.
General Comments:
I have noted various problems with this car, mostly interior problems. But with all of this car's shortcomings, I really love it.
This car handles like it's on rails and is a joy to drive fast and around curves. The handling on this car is really that good!
Engine power is mediocre at best (2.0L base four), but it is very responsive and easy to rev. More than enough power to keep up with traffic on the Bay Area Freeways! I think it's because of the transmissions gear ratios, at 5th, the engine revs high, but I guess that's typical of European cars.
Seats are fairly comfortable (aside from that irritating cloth coverings that everything likes to stick to). Made some trips to Vegas and LA, and had no problems with my back.
The fit and finish on this car is great, but for interior bits coming loose and rattling is another story. I like the interior layout and controls, which has clean lines and just plain beautiful European engineering.
I like the blue and red back light dash accents, it is cool, but doesn't do much for the gage's readability at night.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 5th October, 2002
30th Jun 2003, 08:13
I love (d?) the Jetta. It is a great car for me, however, it is only four years old and I am having to do a lot of repair work. The oxygen sensor failed (covered by recall), but within a week of replacement it is failing again. The cheap plastic parts keep breaking (glove box, cup holders, etc.) I have had service at two dealers and both have been terrible. I have been lied to about the condition of my brakes by one dealer. Two of my family members have purchased new VWs (a Passat and a new Beetle). The Passat had so many problems over 2 years that it spent most of the time in service. Eventually, it was exchanged for another Passat. VW made a deal to purchase a new one. (No problems with the Beetle yet, but then it only has 3,000 miles on it). I love the car -- but, no, I would not buy another Volkswagen. Too bad for them and me.