Passat Auto's?

[Possu]

Any downsides such as reduced MPG if buying an automatic Passat? What's the reliability like?

[fozzie]

Hi Possu,
I dont know how accurate it is, but the web site shows a drop of around 10mpg on automatics!



http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/reviews/Review.aspx?model=1049&page=7

Fozzie!

[Sam]

The extra weight of the auto box bogs down the car.

Performance wise it's slower, but I think they still fetch a premium over the manuals on resale

[snapdragon]

Lower mpg especially around town is the main downside.
On the plus-side, it's a lot less stressful on the powertrain and drivetrain than a manual with a clutch. The engine can't be subjected to labouring or sudden loss of load at high rpm, and there is no snatching and backlash caused by gear changes or abuse. Automatics also have better acceleration in some circumstances such as 50-70mph which is great when entering the motorway.

[brogandb7]

Hi there,
The others are right in that there is a reduction in MPG due to the fact that auto boxes are very heavy and an extremely complicated piece of engineering which requires extra power from the engine to move and it also depends on how happy you become with the right foot. They do fetch several hundred quid more when it comes to second hand resale and are easier to sell.

On the upside the drive is much more relaxed and smooth, when it comes to rush hour traffic you have the upper hand as it only takes one foot to stop and start and is a lot less of a hassle.

[Possu]

Thanks for the responses. :beerchug:

I think I'll keep looking for a manual as I'm buying a Passat because they're economical.

I also have this idea in my head that auto's are for "old men"?:confused: :D