Considering buying 159 JTD

[Divano Veloce]

Hi All,

our VW polo TDI has been fantastic for 165k kms but is a bit small for our growing family. At this stage we're considering another VAG make like a Skoda Octavia sedan or wagon but I am very interested in a 159 JTD. In our price range are cars with 150k+ on the clock.

if such a thing exists i'd prefer the 2.4 wagon with manual transmission...

what are the things to look for with this model? is the 1.9 underpowered? should we avoid the automatic transmissions? what major service items should be performed by 150k? informed advice/opinions/anecdotes very welcome

[Craig_m67]

It does exist however it's very rare.
The only 2.4 manual Sportwagon i've ever seen was in the first series ('06-'07) cars
I've never seen a 2.4 Ti Sportwagon, which is my personal holy grail.

The 1.9 is great (I have one), the autobox is Japanese and bullet proof.  The most prevalent problem, as with most modern diesels, appears to be the DPF which was introduced on the 159. It can clog and give you issues if you only do short trips.  Same risk with a modern VAG.

[Divano Veloce]

Thanks Craig! Thats the reason we got the 2009 polo (pre-dpf). Probably not an issue as we drive long distances.

so 1.9 and 2.4 JTDs have japanese automatic transmissions? is there any issue with high mileage autos or diesel motors in general?

[Divano Veloce]

would i regret an automatic??? Wife really wants a wagon and i cant find one with a manaul tranny

[Sheldon McIntosh]

FWIW, I drove a 159 1.9 for a day, it was an auto, and I found it extremely underpowered, particularly from take off.  Ever driven an old Mercedes 180E?  It was like that, so slow from stand-still you couldn't get through average gaps in traffic.  Manual might be better, but well worth going for a 2.4.  Just my opinion of course.

[Divano Veloce]

How about a 2.4 sportswagon? they only seem to have auto transmissions. Are the auto transmissions any good or will i end up spending more time on the forum than driving the car???

Also what is the official vs recommended timing belt interval for the 2.4jtd? Internet says 48k or 60k miles or 150k kms or some other risk averse number of distance units