Snapshot: Under that handsome skin is a VW Golf; no bad thing. The Jetta, however, offers a lockable trunk. 115 hp base engine with turbo and VR6 options allows the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta to change character, as does the wagon. Compact size is ideal for urban traffic.
How Much?: Price for a 2004 Volkswagen Jetta in the US ranges from $17,430 to $23,210.
The Inside Story: Seats four comfortably, five for short trips. Short overall length means less rear seat room, but there's enough for the average family. The interior design of the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is elegant, the dash enjoys the luxury of simplicity. Trunk is roomier than expected. 5-Star frontal crash rating is as good as it gets.
Under the Hood: Engine: The base 4-cylinder engine produces an adequate 115 hp but the sky's the limit after that, with a 180 Turbo, a 200 hp VR6, and a high-torque turbodiesel that gets 50 mpg on the highway and 700 miles between fill-ups.
Transmissions: 5-speed manual is standard in the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. A 4-speed automatic is optional.
Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles bumper-to-bumper. 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain.
Should You Buy a 2004 Volkswagen Jetta?: The 2004 Volkswagen Jetta has a lot going for it. Styling, for one. Nimble handling, thanks to its compact dimensions. A lockable trunk (vs. a hatchback) for those who prefer the traditional. A very attractive 4-door station wagon which adds versatility to the mix. And the ability, with the variety of engine choices, to turn this economy model into a genuine sports sedan. It's VW's best seller and one of our favorites, too.
