2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS review from North America

The trunk latch stopped catching.

The horn stopped honking when the security system in engaged.

This car was a replacement for my work car. Gas mileage and "fun" factor were important. I must say the mileage and "fun" are certainly there. This is a great car to drive.

I'm still out on the reliability due to the two problems noted. However, no performance related issues yet.

The service department has been great. Everything has been a warranty repair.

I looked at buying another Japanese car because of my experience with the performance reliability of those I've owned. I drove this car and was sold. Additionally, the finish of this car, and all the VWs I looked at seemed superior. I refer to it as the "pop can" test. You close a door on some cars and it sounds tinny like a "pop can". You close the door on others and it's solid, this was solid.

In terms of finish, I find I really like the European finish. Direct, not flashy, efficient. All good.

There are a couple of "considerations" you have to get over to buy the car. First, for me, was the dealer locations. We don't have one in the city I live in. We drive about an hour for warranty word. But, to date the service department has been very good to work with. Yeah, I do have concerns that I'm working with them this soon. Hence, the 8 on reliability. Higher than 5-7 because they are non-performance related to date.

Second, they cost a little more. They hold their value better too, so you have to decide.

Third, and this is a pet peeve, that knob to adjust the seat is just someone's idea of a bad joke. I'll bet he's (or she's) still laughing.

Fourth, back seat. It's a little tight. Although the new models are larger in that respect.