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 51 through 60 of 381.00
  • Wolf in Sheeps Clothing - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    With a 2 year old son, and a big dog, I needed a wagon, and Im very glad I decided on the Jetta. My car has 8000 miles on it, and NO problems what so ever (knock on wood)... Theres lots of room in the cargo area, and the cars fun to drive. Plus it gets 31 mpg on the highway. NO regrets.

  • Best car in market - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I test looked at the Corollas, Civics, Mazda3, Sonata, and the VW Jetta is the best of the bunch. The jetta is a little more $$ then the Corolla, Civic and Mazda3 but its worth it. Believe me the engines on these Jettas will go forever. Great gas mileage, nice looks and drives like a charm. Also good resale. I researched this car and its a great deal. Plus I bought it with their 0% financing promotion.

  • Utilitarian Bullet - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    There is no better work car! BEST FEATURE: I can drive in 3rd gear at speeds as low as 15 mph allow many turns without shifting, permitting me to eat while driving in heavy traffic. The handbrake is conveniently positioned for handbrake turns unlike many manufacturers. Sit in the back and experience a hungry growl not heard in the front! The car cleans up in easily too when splattered with mud on the inside. Hows it on the freeway? 70 mph is an idle. 90 mph is where is feels right. 110 mph is a little noisy. Pickup on icy terrain is so exceptional that you realize 4-wheel drive is unecessary in northern urban areas.

  • Love that TDI !! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I never considered owning a VW until reading the rave reviews for the TDI engine. TDI is quiet, starts quickly even in severe cold, plenty of torque. Fabulous fuel efficiency. Chose Jetta TDI wagon over more expensive Volvo V40. Acquiring the exact car I wanted was extremely difficult given that TDIs are on limited allocation and dealerships wanted to tack on unreasonable markup.

  • Jetta 1.8T - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had this car since August 2003 and love this vehicle. I have always had a Japanese car. The Jetta Wolfsburg handles with precision and is very quick.I have the "Tiptronic" Great Car.

  • Fun, Thrifty, Reliable - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I live in the hilly contryside of the Oregon coast and my TDI Jetta is a pleasure to own and drive. It is reliable and gets 45-48 mpg on my daily 90 mile commute. It has plenty of pick up and low-end torque and handles great through hills and in wet and light snow. I have never had a problem with it in two years and 50,000 miles of ownership.

  • Sweeeet... - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I just graduated college, so I wanted the best bang for my buck without killin myself. All my research (which is what I do for a living!) lead to the GLI. You cannot buy a quicker, meaner car with so much luxury for less that $30,000. Mine was $27,000, completely loaded (spoiler and changer too) which compares nice to $37,000 for a comparable BMW 330i. All power and performance numbers are under reported as I can get 0-60 in 6.9sec vs the reported 7.9sec!

  • Great First Car/Commuter - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My parents got me my 2004 Jetta when I was 18. The the car got me through four years of college and is still going strong. Got it in 2010 with 48K miles, five years later its at 140K and still going strong. Ive had no mechanical problems with the car (aside from one that the dealer fixed) and with a 40 minute commute this was all I could ask for. The car was not perfect by any means (see below) but for a commuter looking for decent MPG, mechanical reliability, and a "cute" look, the Jetta is a great choice.

  • A++++++++++ - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I actually own a 2003 TDI but I had to rave about it. Volkwagon is so reliable and I can drive from college station tx to gulfport, ms get this...on one tank of gas! This car is a little small on the outside but it makes up for it everywhere else.

  • I love my Jetta :) - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have been thoroughly pleased with the performance of my Jetta and with the service I have received from the dealership. Although its not perfect, its a smooth ride, I feel very comfortable and safe, and theres plenty of room for passengers and in the trunk. My sales representative at the dealership was straight-forward and easy to work with- I got an excellent deal and he has been helpful in my follow-up phone calls with random questions.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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