2004 Volkswagen Jetta Wagon TDI

Outwardly the Jetta has changed little from '03 to '04, which is good as I find it one of the best looking wagons rolling

I find the Jetta Wagon one of the best looking of its type rolling the streets of North America. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

the streets of North America, Europe or wherever else the popular Wolfsburg, Germany assembled buggy is being sold. Proportionally, the Jetta is spot-on for a compact wagon. Its lines are conventional, restrained and consistent with its well-established VW lineage. Body panels are tight and accurately fitted; and thanks to a surround of large windows, outward visibility is unrestricted. I found the beige color of my tester infused the car with a light airiness that was very appealing and relaxing to look at.

Its relaxation appeal was heightened when I opened the driver's door and parked myself inside the Jetta's superb interior, which in my unit was trimmed in matching beige leather. Overall, Volkswagen has done a marvelous job of creating an interior that treats its occupants to a premium sense of quality and comfort, far beyond that offered by most of the Jetta's competitors. The entire dash layout is logical, clear and intuitive, not to mention colorful at night thanks to a dramatic red on blue, gauge cluster lighting scheme. After a very

Volkswagen has done a marvelous job of creating an interior that treats its occupants to a premium sense of quality and comfort. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

short time in the driver's perch, I became innately familiar with the controls, where they were and how they operated. Take for instance the three rotary dials administering the heat, air conditioning and ventilation systems, or the large lever for adjusting driver and front passenger seat height. These are good examples of how Volkswagen has averted the trend to electrify, digitize and unify controls.

Immediately apparent when casting eyes and hands about the Jetta's interior is the quality and substance of all its surfaces. The Jetta is devoid of ill-fitting plastics and the fake metallic trim that so often is found in cars attempting - with little success I might add - to conceal a low rent image. In addition to eye pleasing design and execution, the layout of the wagon's interior makes maximum use of its generous dimensions - at least generous for compact class wagon. Leg and headroom is abundant, as is cargo space when the rear seats are folded down.