Got a 2005 Jetta TDI and it is one of the most fun and easy to drive cars I have owned. The low end torque of the TDI combines with the Tiptronic Transmission is a hoot for driving in and out of traffic, I especially get a lot of use out of the Tiptronic driving up and down the NJ turnpike.
Another thing about German cars is that they are designed and built to be comfortable for drivers over 6ft tall, like myself. When I was car shopping, I felt like I needed to be shoe-horned into a Civic and Corolla whereas the Jetta was easier to get in and out of as well as a more comfortable driving position. WIth the Civic and Corolla my knees were hitting the dash even with the seat all the way back and somewhat reclined.
VW is also one of the few car makers that offers heated cloth seats, most other makers make you upgrade to leather seats if you want them heated.
One thing I did learn about VW was to purchase one that was assembled in Germany as opposed to the VW plant in Mexico; much tighter fit and not as many rattles and less body noise.
My one criticism of VW is the cost of ownership is higher than other cars, especially the TDI, an example being it recently cost me $730 for the dealer to replace the fuel pump. Non-routine maintenance parts need to be special ordered from Stuttgart. But I can live with a higher cost of ownership because my Jetta TDI gets 42mpg and has a 500mile range.
Would I purchase another VW? Yes, I would. However, my next vehicle will most likely be an Audi A3 TDI.