2004 Volkswagen Jetta Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.42/5 Average
381 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2004, all Jetta models get an updated look, optional telematics and a new and more powerful 1.9-liter TDI engine (GL and GLS models only). The 2.0-liter engine is now PZEV-rated, and the GLX trim is no longer available. Also note that you can no longer get the 1.8T engine in GL trim. Besides that, the GLI sedan sports new 17-inch alloy wheels and the Cold Weather Package items (heated seats and washer nozzles) as standard, while the GLS features a standard Monsoon stereo. The wagons get a revised instrument cluster late in the model year, and the sedans get new metallic trim rings around the gauges.

Pros:
  • Powerful 1.8T and VR6 engines, fuel-efficient TDI power plant, fun to drive, comfortable ride, rich interior materials, loads of standard safety features, solid build quality.
Cons:
  • More expensive than most small sedans and wagons, tight rear-seat legroom, weak base four-cylinder.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 381.00
  • Poor fuel milage - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    We purchased our VW and are very disappointed in the gas milage. The sales sticker on the vehicle stated that it would get 47 mpg highway and 41 city. We only get 34 mpg highway. We have had it to checked three times and they cant seem to find the problem. It seems there are other people that have similiar problems with this make of VW.

  • 2nd VW and still lovin it - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I just traded my 2000 JETTA GLS TDI for you guessed it a 2004 JETTA GLS TDI. Yes, I had the typical Jetta problems, the windows and the cupholders. Both were warranty items and only a minor inconvenience when you look at the overall picture. In four years I drove my Jetta across country TWICE, with the only major problem being a faulty mass air flow meter. Otherwise oil changes are the only maintenance Ive had to do in 60,800 miles. I hope my new Jetta gives me as al times Ive opted to save money great of gas mileage and miles of pleasure that the first one did! By the way the ONLY reason I got a new one is because I HAD to have a moonroof!

  • TDI-PD - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Excellent car excellent fuel mileage and suprising performance from a 100hp motor.the only thing i would have improved is interior noises and rear leg room handles great and the leather heated seats w/cold package are really comfortable its a buy

  • I LOVE MY JETTA!! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I got my 2004 VW Jetta used after losing my 96 Honda civic in a tragic accident. I love everything about my Jetta. I live in IA so the heated seats are a really nice feature to have. I feel super safe in it because its heavy, and has every air bag in every place you need them to be. I havent had any big problems with it and its super fun to drive. Its a great car for liability and I wouldnt trade it. I used to love hondas, thats all I ever owned. But after driving my Jetta, I really have a liking to Volkswagens! People say theyre expensive to fix but I repaired two things on it and found someone to do it cheap. Just look around for the right person! If you live in Iowa, go to Bensons

  • -tdi - pd jetta - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    great car. performance and economy in one... and mean performance. tons of torque. great on the hills.

  • Superb GLS 1.8T manual - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Closing in on year one of a three year lease. Car has performed flawlessly especially in a rather nasty NYC winter. Purchased the 17" rims & sport suspension & ALL the safety features. Excellent acceleration w/minimal turbo lag. Smooth shift linkage. Could use a little more rear passenger room and the gas mileage is so-so for a 4 banger. Good road manners & excellent handling though a rear sway-bar would help with some understeering during fast acceleration.

  • buy one-youll love it !! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car handles great and isnt as loud as you think ,especially when youre saving all that gas!This is my second diesel vw jetta-last one was a sedan and theyre just great! Not much difference in the parking than the sedan because these 2 cars are only 1 and 1/2 inches in length different!

  • Total Perfection - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought the 2004.5 Jetta GLI (my first VW) in April 04 and it is by far the best, most fun to drive vehicle Ive ever owned. VW has made a perfect car and I will continue to by VWs from here on out.

  • 2004 Jetta GLI - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Nice low profile tire & wheel help the steering response, though Goodyear RSA tire is not that good in dry/wet traction. Braking distance is kind of long due to small discs brake. ESP coupled with ASR standard in this car helped me in one emergency turn into a ramp off I-95 (driving too fast to pass one vehicle just before exit the ramp). A little disappointed with the color (silver) and date of manufacture (2004 model but date of manufacture is June 2003) but have no choice since this new vehicle is the leftover. Overall satisfied with this vehicle.

  • Pocket Rocket - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I was actually looking to get Mazda 3 or 6 went I went to the dealership. Both were kinda blah when I decided to try the Jetta (the dealership had both Mazdas and VWs). The 4 cylinders were blah as well but when I got behind the wheel of the V6, I knew that was it. The suspension is sporty, acceleration quick, and the handling was that stiff but smooth feel you expect from a sportscar. I had heard that the past Jettas were crappy but so far so good. Getting into my car is definitely a highlight of my day. The dash has an austere look to it. Nothing but the essentials, very unlike most cars that clutter up their dash. Very happy with the Monsoon soundsytem.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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