2000 Volkswagen Jetta GLS VR6 review from North America

1 of 2 coil packs failed - $800 at a smaller shop (not dealer)

Broken hinge on glove box.

Broken lock on glove box.

Broken latch on center console.

Broken cup holders (flimsy plastic that ejects from dash and causes your drinks to cover the vents)

Broken ash tray in back (don't use but doors to it are always opening)

Oxodized headlights that you either polish or replace for $150 each.

Electronics that are faulty and for which VW is notorious for. I had lights for my air controls that never worked and a short in my dash lights that would cost hundreds to fix.

The Monsoon radio system with amp that came with the car is decent but the 6 CD changer worked sporadically. Would skip discs and say that there was nothing in the slot.

This car can have many electrical and mechanical nightmares which is a shame as it could be a great car. I didn't have it happen, but I have read that the windows could drop down into the door when rolled up and you have to spend hundreds to fix each one.

The keys are laser cut and have a chip in them. A replacement must come from the dealer for $150-250 per key!

In the repairs I have made, simple things cost 30-40% more than domestic, much more than I thought an import would cost.

This car handles beautifully and feels solid when driving.

The VR6 has great acceleration. Only gets about 25 MPG on the freeway though.

The controls are intuitive and the dash lights up a nice red at night.

I had the 5 speed and the shifter nob is the perfect size with a sport feel to it.

The 4 wheel disc brakes have great stopping power.

The trunk is enormous!

5 star crash rating with side impact air bags.

An all around decent car if you can find one in top condition. If you get one that needs repairs, expect to spend hundreds more than you would on a GM or even another import. If it is in need of repair, save yourself the money and buy something else.