Hi all, new to the forum. I'm looking at taking advantage of the latest bailout and trashing my 98 blazer for a new Jetta TDI. All the numbers look good, but I am eager to get some expert opinions from Jetta owners rather than salesmen. Is the TDI as good as advertised, or am I better off with a gasoline engine? The fuel economy and life span of a diesel are big selling points, but if you guys are aware of any added maintenance costs or reliability issues, I would greatly appreciate any tips or advice. I would plan on doing my own oil changes and throwing synthetic oil in from the start. Also, any ideas on how much I might be able to talk a dealer down on price? (After the $4500 credit and $1300 tax credit......)

Thanks in advance!!!!!!

 

Hey ffbacker, I got a deal of $26,600 on an 09 Sportwagen with MSRP $27,619; that's $602 over invoice. I live in the ATL area but got that price from a dealer in SC; I'm up that way quite a bit so the distance is no problem for me. I'm also buying under Cash for Clunkers, and they're not comfortable completing the deal until the law is finalized later this month so I have to be patient for a while . Good luck with your search!