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2004 VW Jetta Wagon TDI Road Test

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Khatir Soltani

VWs of late have been priced slightly under the more prestigious German competition (Audi, BMW and Mercedes) and slightly over comparable U.S. automaker models.Given the gas consumption figure of this wagon, though, at 6.5 L/100 km (36 mpg) in the city and 5.0 L/100 km (47 mpg) on the highway, you have to figure operating expenses into a final cost

While the price tag is a bit on the high side, you also have to consider the fuel savings, which are becoming more and more of factor when shopping for a new car. (Photo: Volkswagen Canada)
calculation. While the base TDI Wagon starts at a somewhat reasonable $27,550 (factor in that despite its premium-level tactile quality, power features and standard air conditioning it's a relatively Spartan compact wagon for over $2,000 more than Mazda's fully loaded 3 Sport GT), my tester started encroaching in on BMW, Volvo, Audi territory at $32,460. Fully trimmed out the TDI equipped Jetta Wagon runs $33,185.

In a recent review of an all-new full-size sport utility vehicle, I pointed out that at current prices a 100 kilometer trip would cost around $20. The same distance traveled in the equally comfortable and almost as spacious Jetta Wagon would set you back about six-and-half bucks. Go figure.

Specifications (TDI):

  • Price Range (MSRP): $27,550 - $33,185
  • Body Type: 5-door wagon
  • Layout: front engine, FWD
  • Engine: 100-hp, 177 lb-ft of torque, 1.9-L, SOHC, 8-valve, turbodiesel I-4
  • Transmission: 5-spd manual (optional 5-spd auto with manual mode)
  • Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS with EDS
  • Curb Weight: 1,385 kg (3,053 lbs)
  • Fuel Economy (manual city/hwy): 6.5 / 5.0 L/100 km (36 / 47 mpg)
  • Cargo Volume (rear seatbacks folded): 1,470 L (51.9 cu ft)
  • Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
  • Direct Competitors: Ford Focus Wagon, Hyundai Elantra GT, Kia Spectra5, Mazda 3 Sport, Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback, Pontiac Vibe, Subaru Impreza Wagon, Suzuki Aerio Fastback, Toyota Matrix
  • Web Site: www.vw.ca

Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada