2004 VW Jetta GLS TDI PD
Vehicle: 2004 VW Jetta GLS TDI PD with 5-speed stick, luxury pkg, ESP and side curtain airbags
Price as tested: CDN$28745
Performance: The biggest improvement to the original 90hp TDI has to be PD’s refinement. It feels a lot smoother, quieter and more refined in the 110hp PD than outgoing 90hp version. Not to mentioned the 177 lb/ft of torque is a huge step forward when taking it off-the-line. The overall responsiveness has taken to a whole new level with PD as it combines the best of efficiency, torque and economics in one package. The 5-speed stick has nice throws and well-defined gates. However, the clutch take-up point is pretty high in our tester. Other than that, the clutch is light and progressive with good feel.
Handling: VW’s Mk4 chassis still can hold on its own after all these years as it remains a stiff and solid base to begin with. There are no rattles and cracks during testing. As usual, Jetta handles decently with a steering that provides excellent response and feedback. There are understeer and body rolls but the vehicle still feels composed. The ESP has to be considered as one of the better system because it won’t kick in until absolutely necessary.
Brakes: With front solid discs and rear vented discs with ABS, Jetta’s brake system is top-notch. It got very good pedal feel and modulation while the effort is well balanced.
Interior: Mk4′s interior has always been judged as the benchmark for interior materials and quality. The same still hold true after all these years. Everything have a high-quality and tactical feel. Blue instrumentation still looks cool. VW finally get rid of the mouse fur velour in flavor of sports cloth in GLS for easier maintenance and sporty appearance. The back seat still has tight head and legrooms.
The trunk is very well laid-out. It starts with low lift-over and chrome plate sill for loading. The use of uninstrusive hinges which won’t cut into any luggages below is a great idea.
Conclusion: Jetta still has enough merits to hold on its own even it close to the end of the life cycle, especially with the efficient TDI PD engine. If you are looking for a classy family car that feels like cars costing twice as much with great fuel economy, PD TDI should be in your shopping list.
OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2004 VW JETTA GLS TDI PD
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Performance: 4.75/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4/5
Build quality/fit-and-finish: 4.5/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 4/5
Value-for-money: 5/5
Overall rating: 4.75/5