2001 Volkswagen Jetta GLX review from North America
"European Style in an Affordable Package"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The armrest swivel was broken upon purchase. I have not bothered to replace it, because the armrest position is comfortable for my use.
I have received a brake switch recall which was replaced. The brake switch was not malfunctioning prior to replacement.
Some of the plastic trim "coating" is peeling for no apparent reason. The "cubby hole" above the radio, and the plastic trim around the shifter are the only areas in which this is occuring.
Squeeks and rattles while driving is somewhat annoying, and the road noise while driving is too noticable. These are merely annoyances, as I usually keep my radio turned up loud enough that I never hear them. But it is embarassing for such a new car, when I am hauling passengers with the music off.
General comments?
I am very pleased with my purchase. Besides the brake recall, and routine maintenance, I have never had to invest any time or money into this car.
I am very religious about maintenance, changing the oil frequently, and servicing items at the recommended interval. Perhaps this is the reason my vehicle has been completely trouble-free.
I love the way the car looks, and drives, it feels much more expensive than it really is. I have received many compliments about the cars looks, even having people mistake it for a BMW.
The attention to detail is amazing. It wasn't until I bought my Volkswagen that the meaning of "German Engineering" finally made sense. It's not a Mercededes, but it certainly is noticeable.
The VR6 engine is unique. It is apparent that VW really paid attention to what real world drivers are looking for. The horsepower rating may seem a tad lethargic, however when you hop in for a drive, you'll never know. The power is there when you need it, all the way from 2000rpm and up, unlike other cars with higher hp numbers, needing to be revved to obtain power.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2001 |
| Year of manufacture | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | VR6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 40000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 63000 miles |
| Previous car | Saturn SL |
| Date of Entry | 15th January, 2005 |