This is my third Jetta TDI in the last 5 years. I put an average of 80,500 km (50,000 miles) per year and find a ready resale market for them.
The latest version has a better feel to the controls; especially the linkage of the manual transmission. It feels less lost and notchy; not up to the standard set by Honda but much better than previous versions.
It is too early to tell but in the first 10,000 km (6200 miles) I am already seeing fuel consumption as low 4.7 l/100 km (50 mpg US, 60.1 mpg Imperial). I expect that at ~40,000 km (24,900 miles) the engine will 'break in' and begin to perform better as my experience leads me to believe. There is no arguing with a 1200 km (745 mile) or greater fuel tank endurance.
I really appreciate the increase torque rating to 155 lb-ft with the latest turbo on a recent trip through the Allegheny Mountains of central Pennsylvania. Beware though that it needs to get run. The whole powertrain should be kept at operating temperature for at least 1 hour or you run the risk of coking the turbo and getting a $600 Cdn. ($380 US) bill for cleaning or as much as $1200 Cdn. ($760 US) for new.
I find the seats to be of a firmer foam and well sculpted. However, the corduroy type upholstery collects anything resembling lint. I would recommend seat covers BUT I wonder if they work with the standard seat mounted side impact air bags? VW offers a head curtain airbag as an extremely low cost option, $200 Cdn. ($127 US) and this is a positive safety enhancement.
My gripes are few....I would like to be able to turn off the dash lamps at night as I have always preferred a black panel (see Saab for this feature with the same name). I would prefer a different upholstery that is easier to de-lint. As with any Series IV Jetta the rear compartment is a wee bit cramped when I have my seat set for my comfort (6'2"/188 cm) but it is a pleasant place for most. The split-folding rear seats and reasonably flat load floor enhance cargo carrying capacity. The trunk is extremely usable and well sized.
This vehicle is already sold and I anticipate the Series V Jetta due in 2004 with it's enhanced wheelbase and more rear leg room.
Just an update per requested information....
handling is typically VW, the steering is precise and fairly accurate, the ride is firm and reasonably damped on improved highway surfaces and a little bit lacking in communication on less than improved surfaces. I never seem to have any problems after 1,000 km (620 miles) or more in a day. I HATE the Goodyear tyres equipped as OE but am unable to decide on replacements at this time. I believe they are a contributing factor to the ride and handling of the vehicle. Fuel mileage has increased to the point where I have gone 1300 km (800 miles) on a tank of fuel for 62 miles per Imperial gallon (51.7 mpg/ 4.5 l/100km). Hmmm, the dealer says that my experience is unique but I have always derived better fuel economy than most.
Maintenance issues are really dependent on the operator. I switched to Amsoil synthetic and with samples taken just before every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) service. I have been able to go 40,000 km (24, 900 miles) without changing anything but the filter when I rotate the tyres at 10,000 km. I drain the fuel filter every service and replace it (fairly expensive) every 40,000 km. I use an Amsoil oiled air filter (similar to K & N) which I clean and oil annually.
At 100,000 km (62,000 miles) VW requires the operator to replace the timing drive which includes the idler ($175Cdn.) for a total service cost of this operation of ~$900Cdn. In a word...Ouch! But since it is a 'zero clearance' engine having any sort of timing problem will create a much more expensive repair.
I do not follow the VW recommended service intervals because what is printed in the manual is different from what the dealership is told. I work with my service advisors and department manager to ensure that I do not run afoul of VW's warranty. So far never an issue. As further clarification, I run at least 10,000 km per month so I am into the dealership every 4-5 weeks. Many if not all of the services are predicated on time as opposed to distance, this is why I do not replace the brake fluid until two years as opposed to the distance listed in the manual.
As with any vehicle look to your driving style and work with your dealership to arrive at a program that works for you. Diesel drivers need to get distance under their chassis to truly justify the purchase. I have seen 2 year old TDI's with less than 20,000 km (12,400 miles); such a waste. Time is a factor for most people so pay close attention to your calendar AND your odometer.
Amount Paid (US$): 18,400
Condition: New
Model Year: 2002
Model and Options: TDI
