1996 Volkswagen Jetta GLS review from North America
"A driver's dream come true, within everyone's price range"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
A mechanic damaged the air conditioning compressor when attempting to change the freon. The compressor was replaced for $450 dollars (not my money) and now works perfectly.
General comments?
This is my first car and it's wonderful. Despite the one mechanical problem listed above, it's otherwise been a joy to own and drive. The only problems I've had are all minor and cosmetic issues. It has no glove compartment, virtually useless cup holders, cheap body side moldings, and strange visors. If you can get past these problems, it's a solid performer, reliable, and a perfect student car. It does especially well in that it's been designed with excellent factory standard sound, a trunk as big as a u-haul truck, an easy to use and sporty moon roof, well placed controls, and unmatched heat and airconditioning. I don't know how they did it, but despite only having a 2.0 liter 4 cylinder this car has power like you wouldn't believe. Even as a fairly new driver, I never find myself anxious about merging with traffic on a highway. I can't explain the feeling of complete comfort and control I have when I'm driving this car. I highly recommend this car to individuals and couples, though if you've got a larger family, you might want to splurge on a passat.
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![]() ![]() | Fun to drive! |
![]() ![]() | Economical for a 6 cylinder, fast and fun, but not cheap, and almost unreliable sometimes |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Litre Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 68000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 70000 miles |
| Previous car | Buick Skylark |
| Date of Entry | 22nd July, 2004 |

