5 Star Reviews for 2004 Volkswagen Jetta

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 211 through 220 of 381.00
  • The ultimate - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My Jetta wagon is getting 45-50 mpg in mixed driving. From what I hear, the TDI automatic doesnt do nearly as well, so if you want a TDI, Id suggest the manual. Beyond the fuel economy issue, I also really like the way it drives. The engine has a narrower power band than a gas engine, but has lots of torque in the 1500- 3000 rpm range. The TDI feels surpisingly strong for 100. The car itself is well put together and, so far, has had no problems. (knock on wood) I really like the way the instruments look at night, with the blue LED lighting. The interior is attractive and comfortable for this thin, 511" guy.

  • Im now a believer! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car as a hedge against another gas crisis.I drove it sparingly but my wife was a Jetta convert after driving it for a month.I poured my 64 frame into this little diesel and now I rarely drive my other cars.This is the little diesel that could! It is a small car with a big ride and heart.I am currently shopping the Toureg but find the $65000 list too steep..VW has made me a believer.I would rate the Jetta TDI as one of the best cars I have ever owned.A tiny ,tiny bit noisy at idle but with quality like this and45-50 mpg who cares?....popster

  • 3rd times a charm - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I got off to a rough start with this car...I hit a deer the day after I bought it and had it in the shop for a week. Basically, I love my car. This is my 3rd Jetta. My first was a 1996 and basically a lemon...my 97 was reliable and my 04 is by far my favorite. I would recommend this car to anyone who wants to have fun while they drive, and feel safe and secure.

  • Great for farfegnugen - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Last wagon to own before the "cheater" diesels

  • Another great VW - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I test drove 40, yes 40 cars before coming to the conclusion that the Jetta, though pricier than the competition, is in a class all of its own. It has comprable power to the fastest of the competition, but provides a level of class than no other can match.

  • Fun and Reliable - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I did some research before buying this car. Ive heard about Volkswagen having problems with Quality issues and reliablity in the past years, but after having read up on the car and speaking to other Volkswagen Jetta owners, I was ready to take a test drive. Needless to say, I bought the car and have no regrets to this day. In my oppinion its a "poor mans" BMW.(lol) You get a lot of performance for the money, and the German craftsmanship is evident in this GLI model.Keep up the good work VW!

  • Expedition to Jetta and Im OK with that - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    After 17000 miles Im very happy with the 04 Jetta wagon. Very comfortable on the highway (Im 62" and have an hour long commute, so this was a concern). Have hit 50+mpg on highway drives, average is closer to 40 though when commuting. Mine rattles between 35 and 40 mph, but cant complain cause I havent taken it in for a fix yet. I went from an 02 Eddie Bauer Expedition to the Jetta; I cant realistically tow my boat with it, but other than that Im happy with the change. I did install a class II hitch on it though and can pull a loaded 4x8 trailer easily (the low and torque is an obvious benefit here).

  • Great Substiute for BMW 3 Series - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Being a former BMW 3 series Driver when it came to buying another one costs on BMWs have just skyrocketed. So being a german car owner I turned to Volkswagon for a hopefully good escape of paying over 30,000 for a comfortable and powerful sedan. So I test drove the Jetta GLI. I was very impressed by the performance and comfort. The only complant I have is that it dosent have the Multi- Funtional Computer.

  • The overachieving underdog - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Im sold to VW. Had an 01 Altima that I liked a lot, but nothing compares to the build and handling quality of the Jetta. Everything about the car is solid. Precision, quality, performance, and safety. If thats what you want in a car, youve found it. No problems in the 18-inch snowstorm of 05- with the stability control and awesome heated seats. I love its understated yet highly refined look. The two exhaust tips give the 1.8T a distinctively smart look- sportier than the 2.0L, but still very elegant and classy. The 5-speed manual is a blast, I kept pace with a Mustang GT on the I95 for 200 miles, without any struggles- youll be taken aback by its performance. Its a real sports car.

  • Great Car--better than the Hybrids - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is a great car, better than the hybrids. Luxury at its best. Buy it if you can find one--it is a sellers market. It is a fun car to drive, great gas mileage, looks neat at night. Dont worry about the $70 oil change--you only have to do that every 10,000 miles. The sound system is great, seats are great. I love this car and think it is the best I have ever had. It is quieter than my Honda Civic. Buy this one, you wont be sorry! The best is the GAS MILEAGE and remember---diesel is cheaper than gas-- the Prius and Civic Hybrid cannot touch this car! BUY ONE!!! It shifts great! Easy and forgiving....

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