Always had a VW in the family with no major issues if you keep on top of the maintenance.
Wifes old 04 TDI Jetta went past 100,000 miles, only issue was a leaking EGR coolant hose $25. Replacing the brakes at 60,000 miles was only about $180 in parts for rotors/pads F&R
She now has a 2011 TDI Sportwagen, 30,000 miles and runs like a champ
Had a 95 Jetta that lost it's timing belt , $250 later back on the road; non-interference cylinder head at the time.
I am thinking about the TDI beetle or GTI sometime next year.