Lack of Some Features

[1120JettaTDI]

Considering the Jetta TDI is a higher trim model than the much cheaper base line Jetta, I'm a little dissapointed in a lack of some basic features. For example vinyl seats and no leather seats. No power seats. No auto headlights. No high idle. No remote start. At 10-12K more than the base model. A four cylinder diesel and trans does not cost that much more. Even on my 2008 Chevy truck diesel & trans options were a 7K option at the time. Leather etc...another 3k. But that was on a $50K truck that was literally 3x the size of the Jetta. Maybe the vinyl seats will hold up as well or better than leather but at these prices I should have the option of choosing that myself. The vinyl is actually growing on me. And what car doesn't have power seats in their higher trim models? I'd rather have power seats with adjustable height than a sun roof or windows that go up and down when I lock/unlock my car using the keys in the door. Don't get me wrong those are nice features but don't skip the basics. The hard plastic interior is fine for me. I never saw the older interiors so I guess I don't know what I'm missing there. I think the IPOD in the glove box was a horrible idea. Should have left it easily accesable in the center console. I know VW doesn't really care about my Ipod being stolen cause they don't care about the 2009 and 2010 hpfp problem. Its unlear to me if I can plug in a regular mp3 player or not?

I did purchase the car because I like it and I don't regret my purchase. I just wish they didn't skimp out on the features for the price I paid on a small compact car.

Just for reference I was considering a loaded Hyundai Sonata 2.0 turbo with 33mpg and 274hp all for $21K plus tax and $400 doc fee. For a large family sedan it hauls a**. Hyundai is improving their cars lately and VW is doing the opposite with regards to options. But being a completely new design inside and out I didn't want to be a guinea pig for Hyundai. While Hyundai does have a great warranty I still had more faith in the VW diesel reliability and thats what sold me, along with the 42 mpg's.

 

[11'jettaTDI]

I agree, I ordered mine instead of settling for one I didn't completely like. I was happy to place the order but now that the GLI specs are out the loaded TDI w/ Nav (TDI cost more I believe) is missing a lot when comparing. Independent rear suspension, Dual Zone Climate, Full MDF, actual Fuel & Temp gauges, Paddle Shifters...etc. But comparing to the S model is even worse with like you said a "10-12K difference" it has small advantages besides the motor and trans. Mine will be here in a week or so, If it was August i'd wait for the 2012 TDi, but I need the car bad.

Give me HID's VWoA and I'll be happier!

 

[mo_focus]

You can get a different cable and convert the glove box port to USB port. I personally do like te ipod in glove box, its fully controlled thru my NAV so i really dont see my ipod.

 

[Nextwhat]

Leather is supposed to be a late intro option.

I'm not a big fan of the new Hyundais - overstyled with a gimmicky spaceship interior that will date fast. And those swoopy bodystyles really impact rear seat headroom.

 

[1120JettaTDI]

Yes full MDF, Temp, & Pressure guages along with the other items you mentioned would be nice to have with our premium price. The solid rear beam axle doesn't bother me. I though it was still a nice smooth but responsive ride. It will probably wear less over time too making it more durable.

I can see how having the ipod in the glove is convenient if you don't use your ipod anywhere else but I bring mine with me everyday. I use it at work sometimes, at the gym, out for a jog, on weekend I plug it into my home stereo. It's kind of akward and a far reach to the glove box from the drivers seat. The technology to be able to control it through the radio is nice. Having it in the center console would have been better for me personally. Anyone in the car can then control it or change a song.

The Sonata's styling is not perfect. I just think its a nice car for the money. It was 3-5K cheaper than the Jetta and it's a large sedan vs. the Jetta being a compact sedan and it has 2x the Hp. Not that Hp is everything. The Sonata has a lot more headroom and clearance than the Jetta does. I'm not knocking the Jetta, afterall I did ultimately chose the Jetta over the Sonata.

I'm just saying if other car companies can give us all the options so can VW. It probably has something to do with the value of the American dollar vs. Korean dollar (won?) and the American dollar vs. the German euro.