Back in '09 I was so hot for a TDI that I compromised on a Jetta sedan instead of the Sportwagen & manual transmission I wanted. Still, I've come to love it. In the almost 8 years and 121k miles I've had my JSW, I've never had any of the costly repairs some others have had. I'm used to the tank with torque & speed of it and love pulling up to the diesel pumps (especially when everyone else was waiting on long lines for gas after Sandy).
But my needs have also changed. With all 3 kids graduated from college and working nearby I no longer am putting the miles on I used to. And though I've never had more than a minor fender bender, I know I'm the kind of driver who would benefit greatly from all the new electronic safety features you can now get on VWs, Subarus and other cars. Plus I'll probably be retiring in 2 yrs so it might be a good idea to take the 12-13k, put it to a new car and pay off as much as possible while the cash is still coming in.
Since last week the JSW has been in the garage while I drive the '07 Jetta my son no longer needs living in the City. I'll wait to see the final proposal and if/what offers dealers make. Driving my son's old car reminds me how much I prefer a stick. So, if there's a decent VW promo, I'll take the cash, wait a while and maybe trade in the '07 as well for a manual 4WD Sportwagen, Alltrack if they come out with a manual or maybe even a GTI. Failing that, probably a Subaru.