Volkswagen Jetta 2005 and earlier

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Comments

  • rfh2rfh2 Member Posts: 6
    I am looking to purchase a new jetta or civic. My question is should I wait for the 2002 jetta? More power? different engine? I think I am looking at the 1.8Turbo. Never had a turbo and really don't know much about them. Also how does a jetta shape up to Cabrio? I may buy a new car for the family for my daughter's graduation from HS. Also just bought a passat a few months ago and love it. thanks Bob
  • vwguildvwguild Member Posts: 1,620
    The TDI has to be driven differently than the conventional 2.0L ! I know Route 22
    very well...Essex County's worst. Does the Town Hall Deli in South Orange still
    make *Sloppy Joe's*???????

    Go back & drive the car again, but this time drive it like it is a 4 Speed and not
    a 5...That car needs to be driven just about to the Red Line in each gear...3500
    to 4000 RPM. You were most probably blessed with a Sales person that did
    not even know what TDI stood for...And if you looking for an Automatic...Drive it
    the same way...use 2nd & 3rd & Drive, and put your foot into it...the Automatic
    uses *fuzzy logic* 240 shift points...if you drive like an old lady; then that is what
    it will respond to...if, however: you drive like the late Dale Earnhardt it will perform
    that way as well.

    RFH...This is the last that you will see of the Cabrio...Beetle Convertible coming
    next Easter...The 1.8L Turbo is bullet proof, plus the turbo itself is covered by the
    10/100 PowerTrain. Any Jetta vs. Any Convertible...not to be compared...

    Glad you are enjoying your Passat...
  • blackjetta18t1blackjetta18t1 Member Posts: 278
    i thought i heard somewhere that they'll b coming out with a Jetta roadster, any thruth to that? Plus, I'm from Jersey to, where are u located?
  • surfing19surfing19 Member Posts: 46
    Hey

    I am thinking about getting the new 2002 Turbodiesel Jetta Gls, does anyone know when they are coming out. Also, how is the diesel engine in these cars,

    I ask one person, who had a 2000 TDI jetta, and he said he love it, also he had already placed 200,000 miles on to the car. He did say something about replacing the timing belt every 40,000 Miles.

    so far, I am trying to decide on 2002 Altima V6, 2002 Honda Accord v6 or the Jetta TDI.. which one would you choose?
  • vw_vrooomvw_vrooom Member Posts: 4
    JMORRISS13 and WNTAJETTA,

    Just to let you know: I completed the deal for the Wolfsburg today. I'm picking it up on Tuesday. After much deliberation and factoring in how the environment will immediately turn a dark colored car into 1990 replica, I went with the "Cool White". $20.3k includes everything except the CD player - wouldn't budge. I'll get my CD changer from Crutchfield (the manager told me he aggressively priced their CD player @$539). Anyhow, thanks again for the fine responses to my questions and all your help.

    Thanks,
    vrooom
  • lbihnlbihn Member Posts: 13
    I drive 700 miles per week, just had my 20k service after 6 months of ownership (TDI, manual). I am getting 46 mpg going 80-85 mph average on hwy. During break-in period for 1st 5000 miles I got 49-51 mpg doing 70mph average. I will have probably paid for my engine choice within the next 6 months in gas savings. Diesel will always remain lower than gas or else the Teamsters will shut this country down with a trucker's strike.

    I disagree that the TDI is underpowered. If you have a manual, downshift to 4th and hammer it. Find a gear to keep the RPMs at 2200. If you have an automatic TDI, well then you pay a penalty called added friction. This is overcome by getting your engine ECU chipped out. (And please don't let this comment start another big and lengthy debate on voiding warranties) See www.upsolute.com for 120HP and 200 ft-lbs, which should cure the poor acceleration. Add a tuning box from www.newdimensions.com and get 150 HP. See www.tdiclub.com for further info.
    Yes, I am passionate about my TDI.

    Surfing19: 200k in 2 years? Does your friend drive for a living? I thought I put them on at 40k/yr!!!
  • obmotobmot Member Posts: 61
    Just a comment about the diesel acceleration...

    Indeed the motor is 'underpowered' compared to the VR6 and 1.8T. However, that is largely because of the way Americans drive - we expect power/torque without "stressing" or "hearing" the engine.

    Go spend a few weeks in Germany and see how the Germans drive the VW and Merc diesels, they pound the heck out of them (sort of like people in previous messages suggested) and the cars really go. Remember, Germans designed these cars, not Americans. The engines can be abused and run like he*l and they will just keep going. This is NOT (engineered like) your father's Oldsmobile!

    As one German said to me while visiting, "why are you Americans so afraid to bring out a car's potential?"

    Step on it...punch it...make that engine scream and it will be a happy German car!

    PS sometime for fun, if you get a chance, drive a Merc C class diesel with manual tranny, great car!
  • afryarafryar Member Posts: 50
    22,500 isn't bad for a GLS VR6 w/Auto but where are you located? A few months ago before I got my GLX I was quoted 20,910 for a 5 speed with luxury, and cloth - GLS VR6. that was up here in New England though. As for the Cold Weather, I love the heated seats, I guess it's the type of thing that if you've never had it, you wouldn't miss it. And finally, I've got a VR6, as do about half a dozen friends, co-workers, etc... and have never had a problem. I think if you look through the discussion here you'll notice that most of the negative V6 comments are coming from the same person or two over and over again. Either way you go, you're still buying a VW and you'll love it! Good luck and keep us posted.
  • flacaflaca Member Posts: 168
    By making the engine scream - will I waste more gas? I have been driving like an old lady to conserve gas usage. And what do you mean to "red line a car"? And even by driving like an old lady I still don't have great milage per gallon. What is the average miles for a full tank. I have been getting only 280 per tank full. (2.0l gls-auto)
  • eck71eck71 Member Posts: 7
    Just responding, I'm going to check out the sites you listed in a while, but if the numbers you stated are achievable, I will go with the TDI. In a private mail I stated that I was used to Trans Ams and Z-28s in Texas. Now here in the Northeast it is not practical to have that type of vehicle for a year round car(I also don't want to pay $400-$500 a month for a weekend only Ram-Air T/A. I like what you wrote and will definitely look into it. I know you cannot compare a 300+ HP V-8 to a small displacement Turbo Diesel;input or V-6 for that matter, but where I drive, I need the low end power to get going. Freeway acceleration is not as important as the 0-60 quickness I'm looking for. What I really need is a long term test drive. I'll have to do more research to make a decision, but now the TDI seems a bit more desirable. Thanks for the input.
  • blackjetta18t1blackjetta18t1 Member Posts: 278
    im just like that, ive got a 2.0 auto and i drive it semi-hard, usualyy shifts btw 2800-4000 and i usually get 235-265 miles when the light comes on, is ususually around 240, the best ive gotte was 270 miles and thats cause i had some highway driving, but all in all ive been averaging around 18-20 mpg
  • jmorriss13jmorriss13 Member Posts: 12
    Red-lining is when you run the engine up to, well, the red line on the tachometer, then shift. Technically, it isn't bad for the car, because anything lower than the red line is an acceptable rpm.

    My 2000 Golf GLS was a 2.0(5-spd), and I'll be blunt, I drove it hard(Like the ombot says, these cars were built for it). I would run it up to 5500-6000 occasionally, although I rarely red-lined the engine. I got about 20-22 miles per gallon, or close to 300 miles per tank. It think the sticks get better mileage than the autos, however I'm not certain.

    I'd try different driving styles, and see which yields the best mileage, if that is your biggest concern. If not, drive the way you like, because you're only talking a few miles per gallon at most.

    vw_vroom: Congratulations! I'm sure you'll love your new ride.
  • 2001jetta2001jetta Member Posts: 10
    Well I was driving down the road today and felt in the back seat for something and bumped the plastic below the back seat center ashtry and the cup holders popped out, similar to the front dash set up. I had looked back when people were talking about these on this board but did not find them. So to everyone that could also not find then - push the plastic below the ashtray in the back, near the carpet - they will pop out. Fill them with the back up beer and you will be set for several miles! Happy traveling!
  • nuridenuride Member Posts: 19
    i have been waiting for 3 months for a 1.8t automatic black on black w/ luxury and no leather and finally my dealer claims to have "located" one in PA. I initially was going to "settle" for 2.0 with leather until he found this one. The catch is that by the time i get it; it will have 300 miles on it because it came from VA. Should i jump on this opportunity? At first i refused to give up leather but now i think i might have to in order to get that 1.8t with the color combo i want. Please advise soon!
  • jemmyjemmy Member Posts: 6
    WOW! I just bought the 6-CD Changer panasonic and the connector at a cool website: http://www.logjamelectronics.com/


    It took only 10 MINUTES to insert them in my Wolfsburg (monsoon system). very easy and straightforward.


    I bought the:

    Panasonic CX-DP610 $195.95

    PIE VW/PC-PAN6 CD Changer Interface $49.95


    to order, contact:

    Scott B. Helton

    www.logjamelectronics.com

    765-644-1251 ofc.

    logjam@indy.net


    Great deal, much cheaper price comparing to crutchfield ($250+ for the 6cd-changer). Tell him you hear this from Jemmy, he knows me.


    hope this helps!

    Jemmy

  • dr461dr461 Member Posts: 5
    Just picked up my Silver Jetta GLX 5 speed VR6 with in dash Cd, and multifunction steering wheel. Paid $23,800 and got 3.9% financing for 48 months!! I love the car---drives like a 325IS for a fraction of the price. The car is smooth, powerful, and superbly made. I also drove the Audi A-4 1.8T and the VW Jetta 1.8,and liked the VR6 better---what a quality car at an attractive price!!!!!!
  • balticjetta18tbalticjetta18t Member Posts: 146
    Just put the pedal to the metal in Miami and show em that you are Queen of the Road... The engine is sadistic; It needs the abuse...enjoy...
  • ferg5ferg5 Member Posts: 2
    Want to purchase a WE and am curious if the mileage is really as good as the 2.0 since you have to use premium. Also does anyone know if the tune up schedule is the same or more often than the base 2.0. I know you get 2yr/24mos, but I'm looking into the future costs. Thanks for any help. Hope to buy a Jetta soon.
  • moira_vwmoira_vw Member Posts: 17
    dr461: If you don't mind my asking, how did you get that great 3.9% interest rate? Is it a short-term loan?
  • obmotobmot Member Posts: 61
    I know this has been discussed but I still don't quite get it...

    If you have the monsoon system, can you put in the Panasonic changer discussed above and still have monsoon sound? I.e. is the "monsoon" from the VW stereo or from some amp after it....or maybe (and now that I think about it this is probably the case) are you only putting a changer in the trunk and leaving the VW stereo inside the car?

    I apologize for my ignorance...
  • obmotobmot Member Posts: 61
    Rather than paying $500+ for the VW truck CD changer unit, you are instead buying a Panasonic truck changer + adapter and getting out for $250ish.

    Does the Panasonic Changer fit into that 'hidden' area on the left side of the trunk where the VW CD changer is?
  • obmotobmot Member Posts: 61
    "truck" = trunk in the previous message. It's early.
  • knewjettaknewjetta Member Posts: 4
    I am looking to buy a 2001 jetta GLS VR6 with the sport package in the 5 speed. Has anyone else priced one or better yet own one? I am trying to get a realistic idea of a price range. Any help would be appreciated.

    knewjetta
  • dr461dr461 Member Posts: 5
    The loan of 3.9% was for 48 months and applied to the GLX models. I don't know if VW was offering it on GLS models, as I had decided I wanted the "full-out" top of the line Jetta. For 60 months, they were offering 5.9%. My loan was through Volkswagen credit.

    Once again, after driving the 6 cylinder, I saw NO COMPARISON to the 1.8T. The 6 was smoother, had more low end, was very BMW like, and runs on regular gas.

    I love the car--it is fabulous. Only issue is that they did not install the in-dash CD correctly, and the asking price for it is horrendous ($460). I had to go back to the dealer to get it to work correctly. If there are workeable alternatives, I'd recommend them to people, over the VW CD (if they work with the steering wheel controls). BTW, the Monsoon that comes on the GLX is fabulous!!
  • plugbugplugbug Member Posts: 27
    I was interested dr461's comments about his (her?) in-dash CD player. I'm going to get a Jetta with Monsoon, and I'm not jazzed about the $395 in-dash CD player. Can I avoid this and get a Blaupunkt or Sony, or should I just bite the bullet and pay the money for the VW unit? I'm inclined to just get the Jetta's CD player, simply to lessen the hassle... Any thoughts from people who faced the same issue?
  • k_h_bk_h_b Member Posts: 54
    I wasn't going to buy the in dash for my Wolfie. 450$? Screw that. I instead bought a Sony mobile es cd player for 400$. It has the rotary face/remote, fully lcd front. Its very prime. The BEST thing is, the colors match PERFECTLY with the interior red and blue lights. Trust me when I say you'd much rather have the sony for the money :). 8700 miles and goinnnnggg.
    Oh BTW the question between the 2.0 and the 1.8t. I get very good gas mileage when i run around town in 4th gear 300-340 miles when the light comes on (Still 2 gallons left). Also, the 2.0 is a very low tech 2 valve per cylinder engine whereas the 1.8T has 5 valves per cylinder, variable cam timing etc etc. The 1.8T has been used in the audi a4 for over 5 years. Performance, reliability, gas mileage, noise the 1.8t is very superior. If saving 200$ a year because of using premium gas is a big deal for you, you shouldn't be buying a 20,000 car. :-)
  • tristram1tristram1 Member Posts: 2
    Guys,


    The CD changer VW sells is made by Matushita or something like that. Matushita is the parent company of Panasonic. I own a 2001 GLX with mansoon. It is said that you just connect the adapter to the cd changer and to the connection in the trunk and that its ready to play. It even works with the steering wheel controls. I recommend that you do a search for the panasonic cx-dp610 changer on the net. Here is one of many sites out there. You can usually find the changer for about $200 if you look long enough. The adapter is usually about $50. I am getting ready to order this week.


    RETAIL SITE

    http://www.sound-creations.com/CD_Changers/CX-DP610-VW.htm


    INSTALLATION SITE

    http://roadsleeper.terrashare.com/cdc.html

  • nuridenuride Member Posts: 19
    i am about to purchase a vw 1.8t that my dealer located and swaped with another dealer. this vehicle has 300 miles on it. Would this vehicle be technically considered a demo or used? Should i negotiate $1000 be taken off of the price or not take at all? I have been waiting for this hard to get vehicle for 3 mths , i even gave up leather as an option. It's a 1.8t auto,luxury, black on black velour. Any advice. P.S. i am aware that with swaps there is expected to be some mileage but 300? By the way i live in NY the car is in PA but originated in VA. I would appreciate any advice.
  • balticjetta18tbalticjetta18t Member Posts: 146
    Dont let the mileage be an issue/ The car will be titled new and the odometer statement will reflect the actual mileage at delivery to u. I flew to Dallas from Tulsa to get what I wanted and the car had 500 miles on it since It was dealer traded from San Antonio to DFW> I drove it about 125 miles the next day around DFW to visit friends and family. Then I drove another 275 miles up to Tulsa. The car had 900 miles on it when I pulled into the garage.
    The key issue is if you really want this car and maybe take advantage of some financing incentives from VW Credit since it is not a TDI or WOLFSBURG>
    The miles will fade away quick as you desire to drive it more and more than normal///
  • vocusvocus Member Posts: 7,777
    I just saw my first Jetta wagon today. It was a silver GLS 4-cyl. model, and it looked way sharp. Like a mini version of the Passat, kinda. Still cute though. Too bad it's only available with the VR6 or 2.0. They should at least offer it in TDI form.
  • obmotobmot Member Posts: 61
    The other option is simply to put a few grand down and order the exact car you want. The dealer here said if they didnt have the exact car I want they'd order it for me.

    I'm looking for a Blue/Black WE with monsoon, roof, and Cold. The catcher here in Texas, extremely few cars with the cold package. Transplanted yankee who does a lot of driving up north, so I want the heated bum warmers.
  • scriblescrible Member Posts: 10
    Many of you have been asking questions about what kind of cd players can be used and so on. A great site for info on the VW is www.vwvortex.com goto the forum section and you will find a wealth of info out there(everything from engine to detailing and so on)

    Hope that this helps some of you out.
  • dr461dr461 Member Posts: 5
    I was able to bargain down the price of the Jetta in-dash unit. If I figure the price of the car and CD of $23,800, it is not that bad....i figure that they charged $250 for the unit. After going back to the dealer today, they fixed the problem (crimped ground wire) it sounds great!!!
  • roninjoutenroninjouten Member Posts: 201
    Ouch! You can get a good CD player for less than that with a long term warranty for the inevitable problems that the cd player will incur. Had 3 CD players in cars over the past 6 years...they always break - so happy for extended warranties.
  • balticjetta18tbalticjetta18t Member Posts: 146
    $350 + $16 for hardware. Installed it myself and no programing needed. I have Monsoon and Multi_Function wheel...No adapter needed. It sounds superb. It brings the Monsoon to the level of performance it is cracked up to be. I know I probably could of tried to get the Panasonic + adapter but I wanted complete integration with the head unit and steering controls. I also figure that if I have any problems with the CD changer that maybe VW would handle those issues as it is a OEM unit. Over some rough bumps etc and sport suspension to boot, I have not had a single skip... I am pleased.
  • plugbugplugbug Member Posts: 27
    I'm stumped between going in-dash and six-CD changer in the trunk. I'm thinking the in-dash is convenient for short trips, but that shuffle play (I'm assuming the changer has shuffle) is great for long trips. Here are my questions:

    -Can you get an in-dash AND later add the six-CD changer? I would imagine so, but I'm not positive.
    -If I want to avoid the expensive VW factory changer in the trunk, do I have to get Panasonic? I'd rather go with something like Alpine or Blaupunkt, if that's an option.
    -Are people happy with their Panasonics? Anyone done this who can talk about the unit?
    -Then again, maybe the best way to go for the in-dash is to replace the VW head unit with a Blaupunkt head unit, then add a six-changer in the trunk later. Will that take advantage of the Monsoon system, though? Any thoughts?
  • obmotobmot Member Posts: 61
    I have been doing the exact same research and will offer my limited insight...


    Yes you can add a HU with a in-dash CD player and later add a trunk changer; just have to make sure the two units (HU and trunk changer) are compatible. That means, usually, buying the SAME brand HU as changer (i.e. Panasonic in dash + panasonic trunk changer, or blaupunkt HU + blaupunkt trunk changer, etc.).


    As far as I can tell you can use any trunk changer you want, so long as it is compatible with your dash HU.


    Your final comment about adding a single disc HU and then later a trunk changer is a good one, what I am think of doing. Like yourself I really want to have at least ONE disc accessible inside the car. Another option I am exploring is a blaupunkt HU with the blaupunkt IDC-09 *IN DASH* 5 cd changer right above it. There is a guy on the vwvortex forum that posted what this looks like in a Jetta, with various head units rotating at 5 second intervals (this link is *WAY* cool and I stole it from the guy on VWVortex since I didnt know how to post the vortex link!!)


    http://www.ideadirect.com/images/personal/carstereo.gif


    Just click it and let the images load and rotate thru. I like the idea of the IDC-09 changer atop a blaupunkt HU, either the Alaska2 or Heidelberg. The only question is this: Crutchfield says a HU must be 6.5" or less in depth to fit in the dash. but the IDC-09 is over 7" in depth, I don't know if it will fit in the space that is shown in his photoshop-generated pics?


    I hope this helps, and offers you more insight and options. If I had to choose, I would do a single-CD HU + the IDC 5-changer atop it (if it indeed fits), and screw having to deal with digging into the trunk on long trips.


      - tommy

  • dr461dr461 Member Posts: 5
    I, for one, don't like CD changers. First, I live in Florida, and it is overpoweringly hot in the trunk in the summer. Second, I don't mind changing CD's, so having the entire unit "up front" is far easier for me.

    Back on the 1.8 versus the VR6--I honestly don't see a comparison. Maybe I am wildly prejudiced, but the six seemed far more "gusty" than the turbo 4. I found that the 1.8 was fine UNTIL I drove the 6. After that, all comparison faded fast. From previous posts, I was expecting more weight, and adverse handling from the 6, but after PUSHING it in both cars, did not see a substantive difference in handling. Both were "BMW-ish" at a fraction of the price. The Vr6 GLX is a luxury car in every sense with the amenities---so it was an easy choice for me.

    Perhaps, if it were the Audi version of the 1.8 the comparison might have been more valid. However, I drove the A-4 as a candidate, and found the car far less "modern" than the Jetta. The 1.8 with 170 HP was closer to the six in performance than the VW configuration...still, I am a 6 cylinder man!! VR6 with the 5speed is quite nice!!!!
  • roninjoutenroninjouten Member Posts: 201
    Found the nose dive in corners too severe. It's like a small person is sitting on your hood.
  • obmotobmot Member Posts: 61
    I have been doing the exact same research and will offer my limited insight...


    Yes you can add a HU with a in-dash CD player and later add a trunk changer; just have to make sure the two units (HU and trunk changer) are compatible. That means, usually, buying the SAME brand HU as changer (i.e. Panasonic in dash + panasonic trunk changer, or blaupunkt HU + blaupunkt trunk changer, etc.).


    As far as I can tell you can use any trunk changer you want, so long as it is compatible with your dash HU.


    Your final comment about adding a single disc HU and then later a trunk changer is a good one, what I am think of doing. Like yourself I really want to have at least ONE disc accessible inside the car. Another option I am exploring is a blaupunkt HU with the blaupunkt IDC-09 *IN DASH* 5 cd changer right above it. There is a guy on the vwvortex forum that posted what this looks like in a Jetta, with various head units rotating at 5 second intervals (this link is *WAY* cool and I stole it from the guy on VWVortex since I didnt know how to post the vortex link!!)


    http://www.ideadirect.com/images/personal/carstereo.gif


    Just click it and let the images load and rotate thru. I like the idea of the IDC-09 changer atop a blaupunkt HU, either the Alaska2 or Heidelberg. The only question is this: Crutchfield says a HU must be 6.5" or less in depth to fit in the dash. but the IDC-09 is over 7" in depth, I don't know if it will fit in the space that is shown in his photoshop-generated pics?


    I hope this helps, and offers you more insight and options. If I had to choose, I would do a single-CD HU + the IDC 5-changer atop it (if it indeed fits), and screw having to deal with digging into the trunk on long trips.


      - tommy

  • plugbugplugbug Member Posts: 27
    Wow, that's a really cool link you posted there. I'm curious about the IDC-09 too -- if it fits in the dash, that seems to be the best of both worlds, no? I wrote Crutchfield and asked them if it would fit in the Jetta. If they say yes, I think I'm going to go that way. What about you? (And personally, I think the Heidelberg looks the best...)
  • downbylawdownbylaw Member Posts: 15
    i have the hamburg and the blau 5 disc in-dash. they both fit, but its a b*tch to fit all the wiring in. but its worth it. the changer looks straight stock, and i'm sure the heidelburg would, too. the hamburg is more silver than the picture looked, and it's far from flush. but thats because the face flips down and it would get hung up on the changer. i thought about the heidelburg but i wanted a eq and an adjustable volume mono preout for a sub. don't worry about skipping, i've only had mine in for two days but i make it a point to hit potholes just to see if the cd will skip. none yet, and if you've ever been to the midwest in the spring, you know how bad the potholes get...
  • plugbugplugbug Member Posts: 27
    It seems the in-dash 5-disc changer will fit in the 2K1, and would work well with other B-punkt HUs. The problem for me is security. I live in Chicago and my previous car was broken into for a crappy Sony cassette deck. So I think a B-punkt 5-disc changer would definitely attract too much attention -- that is, unless it has a detachable face, and I don't think it does.

    I've given it a lot of thought, and I think I'm going to go with the Panasonic CX-DP610 and just forget about the convenience of the in-dash. I'd much prefer to go with a Blaunpunkt or Alpine changer in my trunk, but the Panasonic is supposedly pretty decent and goes into the trunk with no problem. Does anyone have the Panasonic who can talk about how well it works?
  • blackjetta18t1blackjetta18t1 Member Posts: 278
    i think the alaska matches the stock componets of the car best, with the blue and red lighitng
  • obmotobmot Member Posts: 61
    Your other option, then, if you want the blau CD changer - is to buy a blau HU now with a single disc (heidelberg or alaska, etc.) and then add the blau trunk changer later. Just a thought.

    Its funny about CDs and skipping. I currently have an 88 mustang LX 5.0 that is fast as sh-t but has a positively gut-wrenching ride. About 9 years ago I put in a mid-level Sony CD, single in-dash unit with detachable face. Despite the car's bone-jarring ride over even the slightest of bumps, it almost never, EVER skips even 9 years later. The only time it skips is when I hit one of those bumps that causes me to look in the rear view mirror to see if I've left part of the undercarriage behind me (read: tank trap). I live in houston, which has amongst the country's worst surface roads - in fact the city has a mystical machine that magically turns 6" deep potholes into 6"+ speedbumps, and yet the Sony doesnt skip. Makes me very tempted to go sony again, but I like the blau looks and "simple" interface with far fewer buttons (HUs are getting WAY too complicated!).

    Anyway, if anyone has various HUs installed, post some of your digital pics. The only problem with the link above is it is a photoshop creation, not real installs. I'd love to see some real-life install pics!
  • plugbugplugbug Member Posts: 27
    I'd love to replace the stock VW HU with the B-punkt Heidelberg, then add a changer to the trunk later. But from what I understand, the changer would have to be B-punkt to work with the in-dash HU. The problem: I haven't seen a B-punkt trunk changer that fits in the Jetta's trunk, and I don't think the Panasonic CX-DP610 would be compatible with the Blau. Am I wrong here? It seems the options are: Keep the stock HU and add the Panasonic changer, or go with the B-Punkt HU and forget about the changer (unless you get the Blau in-dash 5 CD changer). Whaddya think?
  • obmotobmot Member Posts: 61
    We think alike. I would go for the indash 5 changer but you have obvioud security concerns.

    You can always put the blau 10-changer in the trunk. If it doesnt fit in that "cubby" (the dimensions are slightly higher and deeper than Panasonic's) you can mount it like changers are usually mounted in cars without a built-in cubby. Granted it wouldn't be hidden, but if someone breaks into your trunk they will find a changer in the cubby anyway; also, if it doesn't fit in the cubby - and you mount elsewhere, then you'll have one extra empty storage space for those annoying knickknacks that always scatter about the trunk.

    I dunno, maybe stock HU plus Panasonic trunk changer is a good way to go, I just hate not being able to put at least one disc in whilst driving down the road...I really want one in-dash but wont pay VW the $800+ for an indash + changer (blau + blau = $500ish).

    - tommy
  • eck71eck71 Member Posts: 7
    I cannot believe no one has mentioned the Kenwood Excelon series receiver. It is far superior in performance, quality, features per dollar, appearence and most of all, MATCHING THE JETTA's interior lights. The bright, large flourescent display looks better than any other mentioned here(or on the market.) It also matches the interior lights with cool blue hues and bright red accents. The unit is available in CD player form with MASK technology(face folds back to appear hidden) and unlimited add on capabillities from $250-$500. There is even one that will play MP-3 music. So many of you have looked in Crutchfield I assumed someone would have noticed. It might not be easy in pictures to see the similarities of the lights(I've had the headunit for several months now.) Kenwood is the leader in receivers now and has far surpassed Sony, Panasonic, Blaupunkt, and all the others; there is no comparing them. Sony used to be there with their Mobile ES line, but has now sold out to the trendy, not to mention cheap, low class stereo equipment out there, among other brands that used to make a quality product. Next time you're in a store with the Kenwood Excelon on display(make sure it's an Excelon) compare just the "feel" of the buttons and controls compared to inferior brands such as Sony. Hopefully you will be convinced. I was always a Sony buyer until I bought an ES unit last summmer and noticed the cheap feel to it. I'll be a Kenwood owner until something better comes along which seems to be far off. I also forgot to mention that they all come with a very easy to use wireless remote that you will never have to look at while operating after a few days!
  • k_h_bk_h_b Member Posts: 54
    I dont know what mobile es unit you're referring to, but mine is Excellent, buttons are great, lcd screen is great, colors fit perfectly. Don't have to worry about a detachable face etc. When you power off the car the entire front of the unit is completely black. Wanna change cds? Click a button and it folds down. I'm not familiar with the Excelon series in particular, but most kenwood and other brands are so cluttered and busy all their features are useless. My sony looks great and performs better.
  • obmotobmot Member Posts: 61
    The Kenwoods have good rep, but they have greater depth and will stick out further. Additionally, the face of the Kenwoods, like many current HUs, is *way* too busy with too many itsy bitsy buttons and distracting lettering all over the face. The Blaupunkt HUs are much more staight forward and 'minimalist,' which I really like.
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