So after driving the Audi A6 for a few years I was getting restless for a manual daily driver. I didn't want a sedan and have always liked wagons so my options were a bit limited. Looked into several vehicles like Subarus, etc. and decided on a Jetta. One problem that was driving me a bit crazy (ask Aaron, haha)... was that was the new platform Golf (which the US Jetta Wagon is based on, not the American Jetta) is due out in about a year. I figured I could drive this for a few years then get into the new one if I wanted. Nobody knows when the wagon will actually arrive in the US anyway.
I did not want a TDI, nav, leather, sunroof, etc. Just a base model. Surprising the SportWagen in base trim is VERY nice with bluetooth, heated cloth seats (odd?) etc. The 2.5L inline 5 isn't bad. I was worried with only a 5-speed it would feel like it needed another gear... but the ratios are really good and 5th is pretty low RPM on the highway.
3 pedals is all I need anyway...
(mod plans in post 2)
http://i.imgur.com/WlgxZJc.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/4IJJ66j.jpg
The wheels pretty much suck. Plans are to go aftermarket.
http://i.imgur.com/Z1EZCbJ.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/ixussvJ.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/ks2P0k3.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/Z10ELnw.jpg
Added the Thule bars.
http://i.imgur.com/YOvsPcL.jpg