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 81 through 90 of 381.00
  • HATE IT - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I hate this car its one of the worst investments I have ever made. I would recommend any one to spend the money and do as I did after problem after problem and buy a Mercedes or BMW

  • Meet the Jettasons! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Man, I recently purchased an 04 Jetta Turbo and it is a blast to drive! I had an SUV and am loving the gas mileage of this awesome car. The manual tranny is a must....what fun! The Jetta holds the road quite well and when you need power, its there baby! I have and will continue to be impressed with this little German (but made in Mexico) firecracker. The back seats that fold down are terrific! Its a nice car.

  • Good Choice - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive had my VW Jetta 1.8T for 2 months. Since I bought it late in the season (June 2004) it had been sitting on the lot for a while. Drivers side door needed to be realigned, shake/shimmey needed to be fixed (said it was the roters - got rusty due to sitting in the lot all year??). Otherwise, I love its exterior look (navy blue, sleek) and the grey interior. Great acceleration especially on high-way passing. Brakes need to be depressed far but very responsive. Monsoon sound system is great. Sunroof is AWESOME. Im happy with the purchase....so far!!

  • Driver Found - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Settled on a new 92 Jetta GL because I was young and couldnt afford the insurance on a GLI.Im twelve years older and VW felt my plight and made the GLI that I always wanted.What a car.Driving is fun again.Love the European styling,classy upgrades,and grin quotient.I feel 21 again.Traded in a 96 Impala SS for it.Enough said.

  • Excellent Wagon for Anyone - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Have owned several VWs. Upgraded from a 2003 Golf GL to the Jetta GLS 2.0 4A Wagon. First impressions are great. Tight German factory-built auto with much tighter feel than the Brazillian-built Golf. It is quieter and more comfortable (some due to the GLS vs. GL interior) than a Golf. Road manners are great and the gas mileage is very good for a 4cyl. automatic. Recommend this to anyone as a totally practical automobile. The features and quality justify the price, which can be negotiated to very acceptable levels. The GLS TDI Tiptronic version would be the ultimate in a small wagon.

  • Great little car, just dont do what I did..... - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car is 2007 with 30k miles on it, as of right now I am at 115k. Ive been a bad VW owner and havent done the scheduled maintenance like I should, in fact I havent changed the plugs, timing belt or the pads. That being said with the abuse I have given it (which I suggest you dont do) this car has continued to run like a champ. I do have the oil changed regularly but other than that I have been lazy. Right now I have it in for all the scheduled maintenance that I have failed to do, not because it broke but rather I feel badly about not treating this car right. All you other folks that have had serious issues Im sorry you didnt get my car, otherwise you would be very happy!

  • Driving again! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I really fell like driving again in that car.

  • Crazy VW Desirer - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My new Jetta is a grand car. I love it. I really enjoy the smooth ride, and it is seems exceptionally roomy for the front passengers. 1.8T engine is incredible, the build quality is great. I looked at Altima and Civic, but nothing can beet Jetta 1.8T. It gets good mileage, and its cargo area is pretty big.

  • 2004 Jetta 1.9L. TDI Diesel - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Great value for the selling price. Averaging 35 mpg in city and 45 mpg on the highway. More than enough power,superior handling, build quality, comfortable, recommend the leather seating package. Dealers can be difficult to negotiate with since they are selling everyone they can get. I have this Jetta 645 miles on a single tank (14.5 gallons) of diesel fuel.

  • Nice Execution VW - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I traded a 97 BMW 540i 6-speed for this car and am very impressed. The BMW was fantastic, no question, but heavier and less tossable. Was looking for a smaller, more nimble car. Looked at the BMW 330i, Audi A4, Acura TL. 330i was $40K, the Audi $39K and the Acura a bargain at $33K. So...not enough bang for the buck with the BMW and Audi. Horrible torque steer with the Acura. For $24K I have a vehicle with great perfomance, ergonomics, space and visual appeal. Time will tell regarding reliablity and build quality. For VW enthusiasts, this Jetta is a 337 GTI. You will love it. Also, if interested, a new chip will make this a 225 hp, 250 lb/ft rocket.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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