: Mine is a 1.8T. My experience with VW products' reliablilty has always been very good. My father does a lot of mechanical design consulting for VW, so I am admittedly biased. This is my second VW. My brother AndyM also has a GTI.

: New from the factory, mine had a few problems: the passenger overhead maplight was inoperable. Bulb is good, just does not work. Solder looks good but I will leave it to a warranty claim at 5000 mile servce. The ASR (ASC to Bimmers) button was not connected when I got the car. I removed the radio, connected a wire harness, and it worked. I have some minor interior squeeks that annoy me. The driver's side heated seats only work in position 5.... which is inferno hot. 1-4 do not work. Apparently all of these are pretty common problems.

: Tell your friend the word is the 2001 VW Golf/Jettas will have an optional sport package with 17" wheels and will be lowered. Audio and cruise controls will be on the steering wheel like E46. There are also hints most VWs will get 6 speed transmissions for better fuel economy.

: Jon Maddux