Topic: Used Vehicle Review: Volkswagen Jetta, 2006-2010

[Kaplan]

I own a 2009 2.5 (auto) Sportwagen, and so far it's been great. No issues or problems. I mean, when it's cold outside (-15) you'll hear some squeeks from the dash, but really, what care doesn't experience that from time to time? Brakes are still holding on, and the transmission is as smooth as can be. We use it for city and long distance driving, and it beats out any SUV for space functionality. Service at the dealership has been great, and with an extended warranty, I'm feeling alright about the next few years.

No car's perfect, and the previous generation had more than its share of problems (I had a 99.5 Jetta GL, so believe me, I've been there). But Consumer Reports has had a lot of positive things to say about the Sportwagen, especially the 2.5, giving it "Above Average" reliability. Hope it keeps at that level, but my experience over the past two years has been great.

[timelynoise]

A diesel engine must be religiously maintained as per the manufacturer's instructions--if so, they will last forever.

That was true once, but it certainly isn't true now. There was a time when diesel engines were significantly less complex than a similar gasoline engine.

The simplicity of the diesel engine has been lost due to emission controls and the marketplace wanting both more HP and less noise. Engine control electronics installed on a VW diesel are not significantly less complex than those on a gasoline motor. And in, many cases, a component on a diesel engine is considerably more expensive than the equivalent component on a gasoline engine yet doesn't last any longer.

At one time there were signficant cost savings to having a diesel. It's now almost exclusively a personal preference. If you're fortunate enough to get one that's reliable, it will still take a very long time to recoupe the additional costs.

[johngenx]

On most cars today, wearing out the engine is one of the least worries of an owner.  If you change the oil and filter per spec, the engine is going to wear out long after pretty much everything else on the car.  By the time your car has 300K or more on it, a failing transmission or major suspension repairs are going to cost far more than the value of the car, and are far more likely to cause you to sell/abandon the car than an engine needing rebuilding.

Gasoline engines have come a long way.  Precise engine management systems combined with cleaner fuel and better oil have engines last a long, long time and a lot of kms.  Diesel engines have no advantages in terms of longevity anymore.  Fuel economy, yes, still.

[safristi]

    succinctly put..though IF PUSHED  i could prolly get yer verbage down to 3W/100 .......


 "ME Tarzan drive Gas,Diesel stink now".....

[aaronk]

A lady at work drives a 2009 TDI, she got 160,000 Kms out of the factory set of brake pads/rotors. Not joking. 90% highway driving, but that's incredible.

[Vanstar]

I almost bought a VW when I purchased my last car in 2010 but there was a little voice in the back of my head that said, "Vanstar, this thing will have many warranty issues to suck your valuable time and will be a money pit after the warranty."

I am glad I listened to that little voice.

[jpd]

I am very glad that some ppl here have changed their mind about buying or renting a VW! That makes more VW available for me!

Come on! Be serious! Read ALL the reviews! I have a 2010 VW golf wagon TDI with DSG tranny and I do agree with many, this choice was the best value for the money I have made!