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I would think long and hard about getting a VW Passat when I need a new Car


Ancedotal, I know, but my little sister has a 2005 VW Jetta, and its a giant POS.

As for efficency, the Diesel Golf can get 72mpg. Thats better than most hybrids. Thankfully the US has updated their diesel laws to allow these kinds of cars into the country soon.

(something about the sulfur content in the US Diesel wouldn't work on these cars)


US emission standards require a cleaner diesel formulation and cleaner running engines. Car companies are working on this, as are the oil companies. Some of the newer formulations for diesel actually start with natural gas instead of oil.

The potential for diesel engines is high (witness Audi at LeMans), and diesel/electric hybrids are another great thing on the horizon.

Another problem for diesel passenger cars in America is that a lot of people remember the absolute crap that Detroit put out in the 70's for diesel passenger cars. Fortunately those memories are starting to fade.

Pirates of the Chesapeake
WRCRA