2005 Volkswagen Jetta / Golf / GTI Pros and Cons at TrueDelta: Owner Pros and Cons by akhileshwar

Powertrain performance

highly responsive turbocharged engine. good torque. minimal turbo lag.

Fuel economy

mpg @ 80 mph = 31 mpg @ 65 mph = 36 mpg around town = 25

Ride smoothness

quite car at highway speeds. minimal wind and tire noise. quiet engine and a compliant ride at highway speeds.

Handling

OK handling. despite excellent powertrain, handling is limited because because of FWD. handling made worse by a little bit of body roll. overall handling impression is OK; sort of like a go-cart.

Exterior styling

i find everything about the exterior styling to be beautiful!

Reliability & durability

total miles driven in my car: 45,000. but i have yet to have any major repairs. it is the brand (VW) reliability that the press talk about that i fear.