Advice Please

[Wary_Jock]

Hi - I currrently drive an automatic petrol Honda CRV and have done 88000 miles in the last four years with no problems other than discs and pads. I am considering purchasing a one year old Passat SE 2.0 TDI DSG to replace my CRV. As I am retired and still do approx 20000 a year on remote highland roads and now require an automatic diesel to offset the price of fuel. However I am a bit put off the B6 Passat by the gripes I read in other forums. Should I stick with another CRV or go for a Passat? . . . Regards

[gazza007]

Go for it!!!
I have the S Model estate that that I bought at 1 year old. A few niggles had to be fixed but VW have been excellent. I would have liked an SE if I'd had the money but It has everything I need, it is big on safety features, plenty of power & DSG IMHO is the best gearbox I've ever had, I think the electronic handbrake & autohold is great. Take a test drive & see for yourself.
Gaz

[james_tiger_woo]

I think that the gripes that people have had are few and are usually rectified quickly - any real "ringers" are a real oddity.

I will say, however, as you live in the remote highlands, then you may need to consider whether a 4x4 is more what you need - or a 4x4 passat (does one exist?)

An auto passat will not be as economical as a manual though - but it will be far better than your petrol CRV.

Try it, I reckon you'll like it.

[Quatrelle]

I will say, however, as you live in the remote highlands, then you may need to consider whether a 4x4 is more what you need - or a 4x4 passat (does one exist?)
It's the Passat 4Motion I believe.

[james_tiger_woo]

It's the Passat 4Motion I believe.

Get one then - you'll love it :D

[vince47]

Hi, Whilst I cant comment on the Passats suitability for your journeys I would make two points. Firstly do not get put off by the niggles in these forums. Every forum I look at puts me off. Try looking at the Honda CRV forum and see whether it looks scary. Secondly, every car range has the occasional troublesome `Friday` car so I guess the passat is no exception. This is my second Passat and I am happy so far.
Final thought. The electronic handbrake will take a bit of getting used to on the roads you use but once your used to it then its fine

[Wary_Jock]

Thanks to all for the welcome advice - I had a Passat Diesel years ago and did approx. 185000 miles without any major problems. You have all put my mind a rest and I will start looking around for a car at the end of March . . . Regards