My son is in the exact situation mentioned in the first post... A really nice 2013 SE totaled and he doesn't want a gasser at any price. We're exploring the options right now.
Presently he's piloting a Chrysler 200 (Fiat) rental and hating it. I've ridden in the 200 and would say generally not a bad car, just not comparable to even a Jetta SE. The VW rides better, is quieter, and is so much better thought out overall that it's hard to imagine these cars are in the same generation.
Look at the various offerings out there. Most manufactures seem to announce their "quality" by adding chrome and flash. VW does the opposite. Drive a VW and compare the handling, the interior comfort, and the thought involved in the package. Some like chrome. I personally am more impressed by what I can only say is the subdued elegance of Passat.
Then safety... I'm sure other cars are safe but I know from personal experience just how well the Passat performs. See my post (Compliments) on the NMS Board and the photos. The car performed as designed and my son walked away without a scratch. One of the things he vividly recalls is the braking and stability in the milliseconds before impact. That little edge may have saved his life. Then look at the results of the impact and observe how well the vehicle absorbed the impact. Remarkable! If I had my way I'd give that little SE a proper burial and a headstone thanking it for its service.
VW has its faults. VW Corporate really has to get its act together and dealerships need generally to be held to a higher standard. Perhaps a few less dollars of profit per unit because of changes in policy could yield positive results in a very short time.
For me, I would just like to know that I could buy a new TDI should mine get ruined beyond repair. I'd hate to be in the car if that happened, but, 
