This is kind of a follow-up to a previous thread that I started. I've been checking out the Jetta Sportwagen as a possibility for my new family car and I've noticed that people seem to LOVE the TDI over the 2.5. I'm all for good gas mileage but the love for the TDI seems to be more than that. Is there anyone here who has experience with it and can explain the appeal?

 

The engine is a gem. If you ride the torque curve and shift the thing right it's actually pretty quick. Compared to driving a hybrid it's night and day. You actually have good passing power. Power and it sips gas so the diesel is applauded by everyone. It also handles pretty well. In the cabin the car gives you the feel of a German car that cost 20-30k more. I think the folks love the car so much because you really get a lot for your money and feels like you spent a lot more than you actually did.
I picked one up yesterday fully loaded with the 6mt. Being my first German car I'm impressed. If you test drive one try to find one with the Nav system, it's integrated extremely well.

 

Did you test a 2.5? Is the TDI more fun to drive than the 2.5?

 

I only drove the diesel, not interested in the gasoline engine due to the mileage. The diesel mill is underrated from the factory, have a friend with a sedan averaging 42mpg and gets high 40's on road trips.

 

Family member has just put his 2011 up for sale. Located in Birmingham, AL. 15k, one owner, dark blue with grey interior, roof, Sportwagen, all options except nav....let me know if interested and I can forward details and pics.
Garry

 

I almost bought one last year.

It seemed like a great car.

I was scared off by the small number of high pressure fuel pump problems. The problem is that when the fuel pump breaks down, it takes the rest of the fuel system down with it. Repairs run between $7000. and $10,000.

Here's the thread on the TDI forum.

If the car is still under warranty you shouldn't have a problem with Volkswagen paying for the repair if it happens.

I was planning on holding on to the car for a lot longer than the warranty period.

 

2.5L is a dog motor and just reaffirms the boringness of the jetta

 

I work for VW, and can tell you, the TDI is amazing, and everything everyone says it is. I have zero customers who regret purchasing their TDI over a gas engine.

OP, if your local to MA, Your more than welcome to come down and test drive a 2.5 and a TDI back to back no pressure

 

TDI is the way to go. I worked at a Honda / VW dual point dealer and the TDI is a great engine. Lots of torque, you can chip it for more boost and lots more torque. The Diesel is very quiet. If you plan on keeping it more the the VW warranty DO get an extended warranty as it will pay for itself after the 1st repair. VW over engineers their cars and they are more prone to issues than simpler disigns of Toyotas and Hondas

 

Thanks for the offer, s2krally, but I'm in seattle.

TwoRs, I haven't even driven one yet and AL is a long way from Seattle. I'll probably try to hit a dealership this weekend but I'd feel better buying local. blue/grey is a good combo though.

rich, thanks, I'll read through that before I commit.