I also have a 2004 Passat TDI 2.0 Wagon which I love. It is quite a peppy car and gets 40mpg on the highway. The 1.9 is more fuel efficient but the Passat is just a little bigger than the Jetta.

This is our 4th TDI and I have loved all of them. My wife primarily drives them because of their FWD. I myself, would rather drive a RWD Benz even if it is in the bad nasty weather.

If I spend that much time in the car, I want to spend it behind the Star. Also, the 190D 2.2 maintenance costs seem to be quite reasonable.

I appreciate all of your input.