I've been looking at the 2012 118tsi Jetta (auto) and have so many questions that I could write an essay. I've underlined my questions if you can't be bothered reading my situation.

So I've just gotten my red P-plates and am looking to purchase one from a dealership. It's my understanding that the 118tsi Jetta is classed as a low performance supercharged/turbocharged vehicle and an exemption from vicroads is required.

-Has anyone gotten an exemption for the jetta (or any other turbo/super charged vehicle) on red P plates?
and What is the likelihood of receiving an exemption (for the Jetta)?

I've heard mixed opinions on what is required for the application. The application only asks for MY details and the details of the vehicle owner.
- Am I required to write a cover letter stating my reasons for wanting the exemption (e.g. for work, only car in family) or do I just fill out the sections in the application and send it as is?

- If a reason is required, I could claim that the car is a work car (it will be registered to my parents business) and that I have to drive it as a condition of my employment. If I was successful with this, would the exemption state specific hours that I would be permitted to drive the vehicle (e.g. 8AM-6PM)?
Others have told me that this is the case.


- Does the vehicle owner section refer to the current vehicle owner (VW dealership garage - unregistered vehicle) or the future owner of the vehicle (on the basis that the exemption is granted)?
The rep at the dealership told me the vehicle owner section refers to the future vehicle owner of the car and not the dealership (even if it hasn't been purchased yet).

Also I know that for prohibited vehicles (such as the GLI or GTI) the exemption application has a section where a reason needs to be stated in writing for the exemption, maybe people are confusing the prohibited vehicle application with the restricted vehicle application?

(Note: VicRoads lists prohibited vehicles as "Banned" and restricted vehicles as "Application Required").

Also, on May 31st a change to the turbo law was made that states any low performance turbocharged vehicle (Power-to-mass ratio less than 130kw) does not need any exemption or application providing that the manufacturer build plate states the power-to-mass ratio in the format of PMR XXX-XXX

e.g. From VicRoads



Does the 2012 Jetta build plate state the power-to-mass ratio (like above.. PMR XXX)?

Also, I have spoken VicRoads customer service over the telephone and most of the guys are completely clueless when it comes to exemptions and what is required.


Now for the questions about the Jetta itself..

The dealership is offering me a drive-away price of $28,950 for the trendline model. The deal is limited and ends on July 1st (end of financial year).

- Is $28,950 a good price for the trendline model and what is the usual RRP and the "bargained-down" price?


- What extras can be installed on the trendline model?


- What are the key differences between the 118TSI and the TDI?


Any other general advice in regards to the Jetta and purchasing the Jetta from a dealership will also be greatly appreciated