Howdy folks,
I've been lurking here for a few weeks and have made a few posts (including e.g. my CEL issue) but I haven't yet introduced myself...
My wife and I recently purchased a new 2012 Passat TDI-SEL - our first VW! We were specifically looking for a diesel on account of the terrific experience we've had over the year-and-a-half that we've owned our BMW 335d. We wanted a slightly larger sedan than the 3-series, and the only two diesels that fit that bill in the US are the Passat and the MB E-class. Didn't want to spend the bucks for the E-class, drove the Passat and was favorably impressed - hence the outcome!
About 3 weeks after taking delivery (and 2 days after receiving our plates!) we did an extended driving trip - 3300 miles in 8 days. The Passat was great - comfortable for 4 and excellent driving comfort for long days on the interstates. We averaged 43+ mpg over the entire trip as calculated by actual consumption - and this on a relatively green engine! To say I am impressed is putting it mildly.
To summarize my likes and dislikes about the car so far (and the overall experience):
Likes:
- The mechanical engineering/technology: The TDI engine and the DSG transmission (both awesome).
- Room and comfort, without being too bloated or heavy. The amount that the car swallowed during the trip - 2 adults, 2 teenagers, lots of luggage - was most impressive. With no negative effect on ride or handling - did NOT feel like a whale.
- Looks. Understated and with a premium flair. Personally I just don't get the new "asian" stying craze that seems to be permeating so much of the competition.
- No complaints about seat comfort or wind noise, unlike some others. Also no complaints about the rear vents (lack thereof) although this was something my kids flagged right off the bat. Turned out during our long trip to be entirely comfortable back there - and even I did a couple of stints in the back while my wife or son drove. So I conclude that the rear vents is largely a cosmetic issue.
- I love the availability of the Ross Tech VCDS system and the ability to "talk to the car" in such detail. And this forum! Having other "TDI gearheads" around to be able to ask questions has got to be a huge plus!
Dislikes:
- Interior rattles, particularly around the parcel shelf area. The dealer attempted a fix that was successful for a couple of days.
- Headlights. Need to consider the HID mod.
- Dealership experience. 'Nuff said.
A bit more about me...I am a "car guy" in that (a) I have too many of them, (b) I spend all my spare time working on my project car (Factory Five roadster replica, in progress) or my "toy" (Ford Shelby GT500, "only 550 hp"), or one of my or the family DDs. Hence the appreciation for the VCDS and this forum!
Finally...pictures!
The new Passat:
The toy...550 hp and 510 ft-lb is just enough to get to work! When old man Shelby passed away a few weeks ago I did a couple of burnouts in his honor...
And finally, the project car...my son and I shoe-horning the engine in...
I've been lurking here for a few weeks and have made a few posts (including e.g. my CEL issue) but I haven't yet introduced myself...
My wife and I recently purchased a new 2012 Passat TDI-SEL - our first VW! We were specifically looking for a diesel on account of the terrific experience we've had over the year-and-a-half that we've owned our BMW 335d. We wanted a slightly larger sedan than the 3-series, and the only two diesels that fit that bill in the US are the Passat and the MB E-class. Didn't want to spend the bucks for the E-class, drove the Passat and was favorably impressed - hence the outcome!
About 3 weeks after taking delivery (and 2 days after receiving our plates!) we did an extended driving trip - 3300 miles in 8 days. The Passat was great - comfortable for 4 and excellent driving comfort for long days on the interstates. We averaged 43+ mpg over the entire trip as calculated by actual consumption - and this on a relatively green engine! To say I am impressed is putting it mildly.
To summarize my likes and dislikes about the car so far (and the overall experience):
Likes:
- The mechanical engineering/technology: The TDI engine and the DSG transmission (both awesome).
- Room and comfort, without being too bloated or heavy. The amount that the car swallowed during the trip - 2 adults, 2 teenagers, lots of luggage - was most impressive. With no negative effect on ride or handling - did NOT feel like a whale.
- Looks. Understated and with a premium flair. Personally I just don't get the new "asian" stying craze that seems to be permeating so much of the competition.
- No complaints about seat comfort or wind noise, unlike some others. Also no complaints about the rear vents (lack thereof) although this was something my kids flagged right off the bat. Turned out during our long trip to be entirely comfortable back there - and even I did a couple of stints in the back while my wife or son drove. So I conclude that the rear vents is largely a cosmetic issue.
- I love the availability of the Ross Tech VCDS system and the ability to "talk to the car" in such detail. And this forum! Having other "TDI gearheads" around to be able to ask questions has got to be a huge plus!
Dislikes:
- Interior rattles, particularly around the parcel shelf area. The dealer attempted a fix that was successful for a couple of days.
- Headlights. Need to consider the HID mod.
- Dealership experience. 'Nuff said.
A bit more about me...I am a "car guy" in that (a) I have too many of them, (b) I spend all my spare time working on my project car (Factory Five roadster replica, in progress) or my "toy" (Ford Shelby GT500, "only 550 hp"), or one of my or the family DDs. Hence the appreciation for the VCDS and this forum!
Finally...pictures!
The new Passat:
The toy...550 hp and 510 ft-lb is just enough to get to work! When old man Shelby passed away a few weeks ago I did a couple of burnouts in his honor...
And finally, the project car...my son and I shoe-horning the engine in...
