1996 Volkswagen Jetta Trek GL review from North America

Car was misfiring - Spark plugs replaced (165xxx)

Car wouldn't Start, electric motor didn't turn engine over. - blown key starter, inexpensive after the problem was found, over $500 in time and repairs before problem (158xxx)

Head gasket was blown when car was purchased, easy repair (144xxx)

Full brake replacement, rear drums cracked, Over $1500

(162xxx)

Both front and rear taillights and blinkers needed to be replaced excessively frequently, suspected electrical failure somewhere, but not worth investigating.

Clutch was wearing, but did not have opportunity to replace.

Some suspension components gave way causing total destruction of car. Keep your springs and shocks in good condition. (183xxx)

Reverse gear would not hold in place (fell out of gear at over ~5mph) (178xxx)

Motor/lock were broken at purchase making the process of opening the trunk just that, a process. Fixed for under $100 (144xxx)

The car is pretty sporty at lower speeds. When at above 80-90mph the steering is relatively steady, but not very responsive. At low speeds and RPMs around mid 4000 car was extremely responsive. Fun to drive. Handles well if you can deal with the body roll.

The interior is nice, I had gray/black leather interior.

The front seats were remarkably comfortable. Back seats were somewhat cramped for someone of my height (6'2") but fine for people under 5'11". The sunroof made the car feel much larger/nicer on interior when open.

Sound system, (non-premium) was pretty much pathetic. The sound insulation on the left A pillar (vertical pillar in front of passenger side door) was damaged at purchase. The wind noise from that at 80 required the sound system to crackle to keep up.

Although, I really like the strength of the antennae on the car, I could catch stations on the radio when other cars couldn't.

The trunk was remarkably big. Could fit a lot of stuff in there. Also it was extremely handy to be able to fold back seats down (snowboards/skis, lots of luggage.) You could also use that area for a place to sleep if you really needed to (road trip, tired, don't want to spend money on hotels). Trunk needs a light though.

Overall, if you like the styling, and you aren't a race car driver it's a good car. Relatively expensive to maintain, but if you treat it well it will treat you well and you won't have to replace too many parts. It's a shame mine got totaled.

Absolutely love the engine sound for a four-banger.