If nothing else, y'all inspired me to take my spare off the "new" minivan. Took about 15 minutes for the oil to work on the frozen gizmo that holds the cable to the tire. Was pleased to see the tire actually had air in it.
I suppose I should play with the lug nuts sometime....
While I am sure they would love to sell all they can make, the downside (to them) is they hit their profit targets (WW), even with lower sales. Depending on ones' attitude, this can be a BAD to a GOOD thing.
Off topic, I am not sure why this is not on almost ANYONES radar !! ?? HYDROGEN
Good article - seems like too many companies strive for volume instead of profit. There's plenty of room for VW in the US, without expecting them to be a ToyondaKia brand.
I do see that VW is copying GM's method of getting people to visit the showrooms.
@stever said:
Good article - seems like too many companies strive for volume instead of profit. There's plenty of room for VW in the US, without expecting them to be a ToyondaKia brand.
I do see that VW is copying GM's method of getting people to visit the showrooms.
IF only GM had stopped its IGNITION problem @ 811 inventory and 2001 total units !!!!!!!! ????? A real "stitch in time saving NINE" lesson?
How GM turned a .75 cent fix into $$$$ BILLIONS !!! Take their course, they will show you HOW !! ?? GeeZZZZZZZZZZZ
And yeah, they often happen because they delayed the fix to make some quarterly profit numbers look good. And there's probably some big tax benefit to taking a big charge when they set aside money to pay for the fix (and the personal injury/death claims) when they have to do the recall.
@ruking1 said:
On the SOS/DD trek, flowing traffic, for 28.87 mpg (23 gals/26.4 capacity 664 miles, low fuel lamp did not light) with the 12 VW TDI.
On the down leg of the SOS/DD trek, hardly any traffic in the mountains, rolling parking lots for three typical Friday commuter traffic/s, (three traffic choke areas). Posted 32 mpg (computer, not a tank full). A/C was on most of the time. High was only 91 F degrees. Had to break myself of functioning the windshield wipers when going to shift into R/N/P/D as per MB GLK 250 B/T. Even stepped the footbrake where the switch will do. DUMB !!
The paddle shifting on the MB GLK 250 B/T 7 speed A/T seems more "video game like" than the VW T TDI 8 speed A/T center counsole position. Both are VERY precise, but the paddle shifter get the nod for "more fun". One thing is it lets one downshift later in a mountain curve.
VW may finally be figuring it out -- "new, seven-passenger sport-utility vehicle will be "specifically designed for the American market".
The question then is whether a diesel is "designed" for the US. But I don't see VW going to a hybrid, so why not? Would help with their CAFE numbers a lot.
Using the US made for US markets "Passat" as an example, it shoots for app a 30% diesel take rate. (total US production VW brand rate is app 23% TDI's)
Posting way small minority percentages and numbers (than gassers, diesels), VW has the (like model) Jetta and Touareg (gasser) hybrids. Touareg is a niche market. Touareg TDI (I have read in passing is app 30% also) Hybrid is a even smaller niche market within a small niche market.
IF (BIG IF, in my case) I HAD to get a hybrid, between a Prius and Jetta, there is not doubt in my mind, it would be a Jetta. Road ability is literally night and day.
So to stay on topic, T TDI's and TDI are very adapted to US roads and highways. I really like how they work @ altitude (admittedly we only go to 7,388 ft. ), AND the ranges of operation that I find myself doing. Fuel mileage really gets too much emphasis.
@ruking1 said:
The paddle shifting on the MB GLK 250 B/T 7 speed A/T seems more "video game like" than the VW T TDI 8 speed A/T center counsole position. Both are VERY precise, but the paddle shifter get the nod for "more fun". One thing is it lets one downshift later in a mountain curve.
I might have misspoke. The paddle shifting is more "convenient", adding to the fun and ease of later/faster shifting. In addition, it does let you keep both hands on the steering wheel and the (up/down) shifts are finger/s to palm twitches away. The console's A/T are click shifts away. I do miss the extra (8th) gear.
Do I NEED to shift FAST? Absolutely not !!! For a host of reasons, it is actually better to gear up/down earlier in anticipation. BUT this is FUN, when you want it.
My guess is what you see is pretty much what you get. I am sure the final (American) iterations have already been run through the various "FILTER's". The vehicle (platform) has probably been built around the demographic's most likely to buy in this segment.
IF this article is near the realities, then the new "Cross Blue" ( MQB platform) will be a BIGGER, VERY stout structure, and more muscular.
..."Well-known, 2.0L TDI engine with 4 cylinders, 280 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, will be under the hood 2015 Tiguan. This engine will be combined with six-speed DSG transmission. Otherwise this engine is used in the Golf GTD and Tiguan R models. For 2015 MY, it is announced VW Tiguan Hybrid model. This is supported by the fact that Blue Cross Concept was presented with hybrid drive. This hybrid system is made up of lithium ion batteries from 9.8 kWh and electric motor with 54 hp, with 516 lb-ft of torque . Delivered engine power is an amazing 415 hp."...
"In real world use, hybrids for many auto makers tended to underperform the lab results. Meanwhile, diesel engines tend to perform much better than the label—by almost 5 miles a gallon, according to The Journal's analysis. The spread is so significant that Mr. Grundler has asked engineers to look into why the testing of diesels doesn't reflect real-world results more closely."
The CrossBlue will be the "top" of VWs SUV line in the US and will also replace the Routan minivan that was such a flop.
I really like the CrossBlue looks. I think VW needs a bigger 4 cylinder diesel to make the CrossBlue a market winner. The V6 TDI is overkill in my opinion as an owner. Though I love the power. To get a family hauler that gets an honest 30 MPG combined they need an engine like the Mercedes 250 BlueTec.
It also looks to me like TN may become the automaking capitol of the USA if they keep up the current growth. Much better place than Michigan where they scare off prospective companies with their gungho union attitude.
The South's auto industry continues its phenomenal growth, as evidenced by recent expansions expected to bring thousands of new jobs and billions of dollars in new investment – including a deal announced Monday that will bring production of a new SUV to the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga.
With the Volkswagen win, Tennessee is now at the forefront of the industry's growth.
Dealing with heavy traffic and iffy traffic controls today had me wondering again how much better things would be with a diesel hybrid. MB has them in Europe.
To me, 2 issues come to the fore: 1. the percentages ones car and the conditions one operates in the sweet spots of hybrid operation. 2. premiums paid vs the savings. I ran this with 3 cars in mind 04 Civic (38-42 mpg) 03 Jetta TDI (48 to 52 mpg) AND I have read the 04 Prius would have gotten 42 to 45 mpg. The B/E points did not make any economic sense.
The T TDI vs T super charger gasser hybrid is a min of app 15,000 premium.
@stever said:
"In real world use, hybrids for many auto makers tended to underperform the lab results. Meanwhile, diesel engines tend to perform much better than the label—by almost 5 miles a gallon, according to The Journal's analysis. The spread is so significant that Mr. Grundler has asked engineers to look into why the testing of diesels doesn't reflect real-world results more closely."
To the last paragraph, I'd say so what to you got to be out of ones Ever loving mind !!! ??? They can not post the real world road tests legally on the new car sheet anyway !! ???? If so, the diesels (which almost always post BETTER results) would have already. In addition, posting this (real world tests) might have legal, criminal, punitive and monetary penalties not to mention government levies too numerous to mention !!! This "governmental call " is disingenuousness at a high and arrogant level.
Just using one of my latest posts and ANECDOTAL (combined 28 mpg as per new car sticker EPA AND 24/33) DIESEL results, the GLK 250 B/T posted 35 mpg + PLUS or 7/8 mpg BETTER !!!!! (29% better, FULL tank (15 gals of 15.6 gal capacity, 535 miles) and not just computer measurement of a SLIVER. July 7 time frame post)
This might be TMI but now 5 drivers absolutely LOVE this GLK 250 B/T !
While I would HATE to say or even imply, this is just the latest and topic specific and another example of governmental legislative, regulatory shenanigans, with a litany of numerous and easy examples, there CASTS a HUGE level of opaqueness, that literally turned the regulatory shades in the room to BLACK, when they doctored the EPA tests after the 04 Prius brouhaha !! ( 60 C/50 H more like 40 to 44 mpg) So not only were the EPA tests "DOCTORED", but the tests results were doctored IAW the new doctored and doctoring rules !!!!!!! ??????
Keep in mind, nobody is being prosecuted for criminal fraud, etc., etc. for either overstating hybrid results or underrepresenting diesel results.
Hollywood made movies of this thematic issue: sorcerer's apprentice, keystone cops, gang that couldn't shoot straight, three stooges etc. etc.
Even (years) after the "doctoring of the EPA tests, " hybrids STILL can NOT hit the bulls eyes !! ?? (where's Gerdes, et al, when you need em?) This of course further VILIFIES diesels as getting even LESS mpg, when that notion was/is/remains clearly FALSE.
I do not know what it tells anyone else when Gerdes, et al and the Taylors can get 77 /84 + mpg on an Camry sized car (12 Passat TDI) EPA of 43 H, but I know what that tells me. A lot of consumer's CLEARLY can see what is happening.
True, it varies for each driver, but it seems a diesel hybrid would be the best of both worlds - low speed efficiency and high speed efficiency. My car doesn't get remarkable mileage in the urban mess, where hybrids shine. Hybrids lose their benefit on the highway, as mpg falls, and the driving experience becomes less than wonderful.
While this scenario was is 11 plus years old, essentially the question I asked myself in 03 was do I want a highway car that was good to ok in "traffic", or did I want a commute car that was good to ok on the road.
Upshot choices between 03/04 Priuses and 03 Jetta TDI. Essentially what has remained unchanged is app 90% H/10 % C. So for example in the 54 miles daily commute 24 miles freeway (rolling parking lot app 18 to 36 mph) 3 miles. So on a 18,000 miles yearly requirement that is app 1,800 miles C vs 16,200 miles H. Now if it were FLIPPED, perhaps a more logical choice would have been the hybrid. The electoral plug in would probably not have the reserved juice for the heavy stop and go for 49 miles per day.
Keep in mind (I know you know this, this is mainly for the wider audience) the 3.0 L is really optimized for the ROAD. (aka autobahn) On the other hand the 2.0 L TDI gets 40/42 in the same conditions
It's a slow diesel news day when I can only report the ad blue lamp lit (with 1500 miles left), on the 12 VW T TDI. The upshot was app 13,000 miles on 3 gals (@ $12.95 of ad blue @ $10.79 per 2.5 gal container or $4.32 per gal). This comes out to .000996 cents per mile.
TMI are the containers come with a flexible cap hose. One side of the hose screws into the container. The other side of the hose fits right into the opening of the vehicles ad blue container. It let me fill it completely to the top. As a matter of fact fluid dynamics prevented it from gushing out. I looked down to see why it stopped and it was completely filled. Further TMI: it took me longer to take out and replace the "junk in the trunk". I also removed the space saving spare tire. The turning off and on of the ignition seemed to function the ad blue sensors.
@ruking1 said:
It's a slow diesel news day when I can only report the ad blue lamp lit (with 1500 miles left), on the 12 VW T TDI. The upshot was app 13,000 miles on 3 gals (@ $12.95 of ad blue @ $10.79 per 2.5 gal container or $4.32 per gal). This comes out to .000996 cents per mile.
TMI are the containers come with a flexible cap hose. One side of the hose screws into the container. The other side of the hose fits right into the opening of the vehicles ad blue container. It let me fill it completely to the top. As a matter of fact fluid dynamics prevented it from gushing out. I looked down to see why it stopped and it was completely filled. Further TMI: it took me longer to take out and replace the "junk in the trunk". I also removed the space saving spare tire. The turning off and on of the ignition seemed to function the ad blue sensors.
When I had my tire issue last week, they did install the blow up spare. We ran around town till the new Michelins came in. Seemed fine to drive on. We did not exceed the 50 MPH recommendation. I stayed off the Freeways. When you pull the valve stem it deflates back to its original shape to fit in the hole.
I have no idea how much AdBlue I used the first 9500 miles as the dealer topped it off with the free total service agreement. So if I keep it past 48k miles I may find out. Though I plan to use the dealer for service after the 4 YR/48k mile. I found VW service cheaper than Toyota and Lexus. About the same as my GM PU truck service at the dealers. I only used Nissan once for my Frontier as they gouge like Toyota. By the time I need to buy AdBlue it will probably cost less than gas or diesel per gallon. If you can get 3000-5000 per gallon it is a non issue. Mercedes did not do their brand any favors by screwing their customers with $250 AdBlue fills. That generated a lot of negative press against diesels. I guess that is par for the course with the Auto Media diesel haters.
@Mr_Shiftright said:
Most TDI owners, from the boards I've read, are reporting about a gallon of DEF about every 3,000 miles.
That would be 44% better? Actually your information is a head scratcher. The 2.0 L TDI gets much BETTER mpg than the 3.0 L TDI !! ?? Per postings, I also run a fair amount/percentage @ higher altitudes.
With diesel often cheaper than RUG in my area, not to mention PUG, adblue isn't even a thought in my mind.
Another commuting grind, another day I think of the fuel to be saved with a diesel-hybrid system. As there a few Bluetec Hybrid models now on sale in Germany - a market which is living in the future compared to the US, I have to believe it's a good thing.
@gagrice said:
I have no idea how much AdBlue I used the first 9500 miles as the dealer topped it off with the free total service agreement. So if I keep it past 48k miles I may find out. Though I plan to use the dealer for service after the 4 YR/48k mile. I found VW service cheaper than Toyota and Lexus. About the same as my GM PU truck service at the dealers. I only used Nissan once for my Frontier as they gouge like Toyota. By the time I need to buy AdBlue it will probably cost less than gas or diesel per gallon. If you can get 3000-5000 per gallon it is a non issue. Mercedes did not do their brand any favors by screwing their customers with $250 AdBlue fills. That generated a lot of negative press against diesels. I guess that is par for the course with the Auto Media diesel haters.
I have to shake my head on that one !!!
( MB dealer charging $250 for 5 mins of labor and in my case, $12.95 of RETAIL product (ADBLUE)) ????
I took so long (from R/R junk from trunk to done) because it was my first time and I wanted to visualize how not to spill any product . On 20/20 hindsight, it is far simpler to put down a plastic (garbage) bag or sheet down and throw a cotton towel around the area of the hole.
@ruking1 said:
I took so long because it was my first time and I wanted to visualize how not to spill any product . On 20/20 hindsight, it is far simpler to put down a plastic (garbage) bag or sheet down and throw a cotton towel around the area of the hole.
Or you can get a VW AdBlue bottle with screw on filler. Then cut top out for a screw on funnel.
you are leaving out the much greater acquisition costs.
Infrastructure costs are also not factored in ( i.e., home station)
Almost no one talks of electrical shock issues.
Given what we pay per KWH, costs per mile driven are higher. (penalty pricing tier)
Tesla with allegedly much greater range can actually sustain electrical energy losses of 25%+., under a variety of circumstances.
Stop and go traffic shortens the range even more.
Current technology forces one to charge the vehicle almost every day.
It takes a good percentage of ones day to do so.
So for example, if I park on the Streets of San Francisco in metered parking and need a charge: ZIP, NADA, ZERO.
Stranding can almost be a daily chance if you do not fit the range demographic.
Charging times limit ones range.
It takes way longer to go OUT of RANGE.
Does the "FLUX capacitor" give the windshield magical ever clean properties?
CA has an answer to your lawn care chores, get rid of your electric lawn mower. Watering your lawn is almost becoming a felony !! Let's see how BROWN the area around Governor BROWN's "Capital" of CA becomes !!! Saw a news piece where 450,000 CA PRIME FARM acres are idle !! I am not sure what percentage that is in multiple use % acreage. I guess the environ cons have a thing against feeding poor people? But, you are in luck if you are an al key hall lick ! BUMPER wine grape crops !!!!
Not that anyone would know this, but 40 years ago, I had "charge" of two electric tow vehicles. 3 phase 440 V power was "free" (well, you ALL paid for it). One didn't venture into the utility room not knowing what was what and that if you violated this, one could DIE. Geez what a PITA ! It could be life threatening when it crapped out in the middle no where with minus -20 F BELOW. We started every tow action with "hope it's feeling good today". More often than not, NOT !!!!!!
No windshield washer fluid changes either, since you won't be going fast enough and far enough to wipe out a colony of love bugs.
(Have I mentioned lately how much I've enjoyed my electric mower?)
You probably won't need the mower in NM. Unless you want to spend a fortune on water to keep a lawn growing. Better sell it before you leave the UP.
So what does an EV owner do when they have rolling blackouts during hot summer days? Or when they are forced to evacuate an immenent hurricane? An EV at best is a commuter 2nd vehicle. Anyone owning an EV as their only vehicle is a fool
PS
Better unplug the EV when you are not home. If the overcharge circuitry fails you could come home to a charred pile of rubble.
From my point of view, EV owners and diesel car owners are in the same boat: They both enjoy modest savings on cost per mile but for different reasons. For an EV owner, the "fuel" is cheaper than a gas car; for the diesel owner, the "range" per gallon is better than a gas car.
They also have a negative thing in common---their savings are hard to justify in relation to the purchase price to gain those savings, unless they have gone from a 10 mpg gas hog to a thrifty TDI.
But switching your 2014 4 cylinder compact gas car for a diesel or EV can't be a very satisfying experience when you do the math.
Factoring in all these things, seems to me that both EV and diesel cars will be a niche market for a long time into the future.
The system hopes the majority continues to and WANTS to pay MORE !!
Well that is one of the key B/E points is it not? In the case of the (my) TLC that is 14 to 16 mpg ( 4800 #'s to a 31 to 33 mpg VW T TDI (4950 #'s) . So it is easy to do a per year (15,000 miles) and ones' ultimate years of ownership plans.
So just using yearly and 220,000 miles, that is 1,000 gals vs 469 gals, and 14,667 gals vs 6,875 gal.
I am using the 4 per gal metric, as I do not anticipate fuel prices going back to .29 cents in 1976 to 1979 time frames. So, that is $2,124 per year SAVED and $31,168 SAVED. Whether YOU or anyone else thinks it significant or not is a way different discussion. In the "one's nickels" discussion it is intensely personal.
DEFACTO, given 95% of the PVF are gassers, the OVERwhelming majority choose and consistently to pay .... MORE.
We have been saying all alone that diesels are less than 5% of the passenger vehicle fleet (NICHE) . In fact, if fully 50% of those are now " light" trucks, despite the generations long vilification, the fact that diesel CARS are now 2.5% or less is pretty good growth.
But then on the other hand, Uncle Warren bought a Caddie. Does this mean Auntie Mary will ask for a multi billion dollar share buy?
@Mr_Shiftright said:
From my point of view, EV owners and diesel car owners are in the same boat: They both enjoy modest savings on cost per mile but for different reasons. For an EV owner, the "fuel" is cheaper than a gas car; for the diesel owner, the "range" per gallon is better than a gas car.
They also have a negative thing in common---their savings are hard to justify in relation to the purchase price to gain those savings, unless they have gone from a 10 mpg gas hog to a thrifty TDI.
But switching your 2014 4 cylinder compact gas car for a diesel or EV can't be a very satisfying experience when you do the math.
Factoring in all these things, seems to me that both EV and diesel cars will be a niche market for a long time into the future.
You are probably right about the niche market. When you look at where most of the Population lives in an urban environment, a small gasser or hybrid makes more sense. For the highway travelers, diesel is far and away the best option. For me I cannot imagine getting into a Civolla and heading cross country. Anything smaller than our Touareg will not do. So my going from a 17 MPG SUV to a 29 MPG SUV made all the sense in the World.
I just got off the phone from the local VW dealer, after bringing the 09 Jetta TDI for throwing a few intermittent codes. They called back after a day or two of trouble shooting and told me it was the "high pressure fuel pump " HPFP issue. There was no shrapnel spewed in the fuel system. However, the thrown codes and trouble shooting indicate the HPFP is not functioning as it should. Let's see if VW A steps up to the plate on this premature HPFP failure issue.
Yes, and thank you. One reason why there is an expectation for VW America to step up is what I have said about cars in general: ANY modern late model car should be able to go 100,000 to 120,000 miles (first major tune) with normal scheduled maintenance and or care. For them NOT to step up, ( for ones that do not cut it) is an indication of "not ready for prime time. " IF they take care of it, really no harm no foul. They will also reinforce the decisions of a three time VW diesel repeat customer. If they do not, I will be one to say BUYER beware !! So to me, it is a question of doing the right things. This has been a known issue for a few years.
Comments
If nothing else, y'all inspired me to take my spare off the "new" minivan. Took about 15 minutes for the oil to work on the frozen gizmo that holds the cable to the tire. Was pleased to see the tire actually had air in it.
I suppose I should play with the lug nuts sometime....
While this is (diesel) BRAND specific, this article might be some reasons why a consumer can get a great (diesel) buy.
4 Reasons Why Americans Aren't Buying Volkswagens Anymore
BENJAMIN ZHANG
JUL. 9, 2014, 2:27 PM
http://www.businessinsider.com/why-americans-arent-buying-volkswagens-2014-7
While I am sure they would love to sell all they can make, the downside (to them) is they hit their profit targets (WW), even with lower sales. Depending on ones' attitude, this can be a BAD to a GOOD thing.
Off topic, I am not sure why this is not on almost ANYONES radar !! ?? HYDROGEN
https://autos.yahoo.com/news/why-california-pushes-hydrogen-compliance-cars-over-electric-131418049.html
Good article - seems like too many companies strive for volume instead of profit. There's plenty of room for VW in the US, without expecting them to be a ToyondaKia brand.
I do see that VW is copying GM's method of getting people to visit the showrooms.
IF only GM had stopped its IGNITION problem @ 811 inventory and 2001 total units !!!!!!!! ????? A real "stitch in time saving NINE" lesson?
How GM turned a .75 cent fix into $$$$ BILLIONS !!! Take their course, they will show you HOW !! ??
GeeZZZZZZZZZZZ
Recalls happen.
And yeah, they often happen because they delayed the fix to make some quarterly profit numbers look good. And there's probably some big tax benefit to taking a big charge when they set aside money to pay for the fix (and the personal injury/death claims) when they have to do the recall.
On the SOS/DD trek, flowing traffic, for 28.87 mpg (23 gals/26.4 capacity 664 miles, low fuel lamp did not light) with the 12 VW TDI.
Slow diesel news day. D2 & PUG holding steady @ $4.39 per gallon.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD, 2025 Toyota Camry SE AWD
Cheaper than a gallon of DEF.
On the down leg of the SOS/DD trek, hardly any traffic in the mountains, rolling parking lots for three typical Friday commuter traffic/s, (three traffic choke areas). Posted 32 mpg (computer, not a tank full). A/C was on most of the time. High was only 91 F degrees.
Had to break myself of functioning the windshield wipers when going to shift into R/N/P/D as per MB GLK 250 B/T. Even stepped the footbrake where the switch will do. DUMB !! 
hehe, I keep doing that on our "new" van. What's worse, the stalk functions aren't that different.
Just keep the gas tanks straight and you'll be fine.
The paddle shifting on the MB GLK 250 B/T 7 speed A/T seems more "video game like" than the VW T TDI 8 speed A/T center counsole position. Both are VERY precise, but the paddle shifter get the nod for "more fun". One thing is it lets one downshift later in a mountain curve.
Fueling after a R/T's commute and trip into the city's (by the bay) stop and go tourist traffic, posted 33.3 mpg (230 miles 6.9 gal).
VW to invest $900 M, Chattanooga, TN plant for 7 passenger SUV. It is undefined about the diesel model.
http://online.wsj.com/articles/volkswagen-to-invest-900-million-in-u-s-plant-1405341899?mod=WSJ_hp_LEFTWhatsNewsCollection
Here is another take and visual
http://www.freep.com/article/20140714/BUSINESS0104/307140089/Volkswagen-Chattanooga-plant-UAW
VW may finally be figuring it out -- "new, seven-passenger sport-utility vehicle will be "specifically designed for the American market".
The question then is whether a diesel is "designed" for the US. But I don't see VW going to a hybrid, so why not? Would help with their CAFE numbers a lot.
Using the US made for US markets "Passat" as an example, it shoots for app a 30% diesel take rate. (total US production VW brand rate is app 23% TDI's)
Posting way small minority percentages and numbers (than gassers, diesels), VW has the (like model) Jetta and Touareg (gasser) hybrids. Touareg is a niche market. Touareg TDI (I have read in passing is app 30% also) Hybrid is a even smaller niche market within a small niche market.
IF (BIG IF, in my case) I HAD to get a hybrid, between a Prius and Jetta, there is not doubt in my mind, it would be a Jetta. Road ability is literally night and day.
So to stay on topic, T TDI's and TDI are very adapted to US roads and highways. I really like how they work @ altitude (admittedly we only go to 7,388 ft. ), AND the ranges of operation that I find myself doing. Fuel mileage really gets too much emphasis.
Well, there's the answer then. Didn't realize the Passat diesel was moving those numbers.
@stever - maybe its both. Hopefully it is to make the Crossblue concept a reality.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
I might have misspoke. The paddle shifting is more "convenient", adding to the fun and ease of later/faster shifting. In addition, it does let you keep both hands on the steering wheel and the (up/down) shifts are finger/s to palm twitches away. The console's A/T are click shifts away. I do miss the extra (8th) gear.
Do I NEED to shift FAST? Absolutely not !!! For a host of reasons, it is actually better to gear up/down earlier in anticipation. BUT this is FUN, when you want it.
@qbrozen, CrossBlue based at least.
Volkswagen Will Build New CrossBlue-Based SUV in Tennessee
Errr.....that front end has the uncomfortable resemblance to a Scion---I hope it looks better in real life.
My guess is what you see is pretty much what you get. I am sure the final (American) iterations have already been run through the various "FILTER's". The vehicle (platform) has probably been built around the demographic's most likely to buy in this segment.
Goodness knows we're seeing lots worse snouts out there.
With the popularity of the Planet of the Apes prequel, I guess we'll be losing the Darth Vader fronts soon in favor of a King Kong mug.
I prefer "Neanderhaul":)
I am not sure how this article dovetails into the current discussion.
http://www.2015trucksandsuvs.com/2015-vw-tiguan-new-platform/
IF this article is near the realities, then the new "Cross Blue" ( MQB platform) will be a BIGGER, VERY stout structure, and more muscular.
..."Well-known, 2.0L TDI engine with 4 cylinders, 280 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, will be under the hood 2015 Tiguan. This engine will be combined with six-speed DSG transmission. Otherwise this engine is used in the Golf GTD and Tiguan R models. For 2015 MY, it is announced VW Tiguan Hybrid model. This is supported by the fact that Blue Cross Concept was presented with hybrid drive. This hybrid system is made up of lithium ion batteries from 9.8 kWh and electric motor with 54 hp, with 516 lb-ft of torque . Delivered engine power is an amazing 415 hp."...
Could happen for the CrossBlue too.
The CrossBlue will be the "top" of VWs SUV line in the US and will also replace the Routan minivan that was such a flop.
"In real world use, hybrids for many auto makers tended to underperform the lab results. Meanwhile, diesel engines tend to perform much better than the label—by almost 5 miles a gallon, according to The Journal's analysis. The spread is so significant that Mr. Grundler has asked engineers to look into why the testing of diesels doesn't reflect real-world results more closely."
EPA Asks Car Makers to Road Test Fuel-Economy Claims (Wall St. Journal - sorry, registration link)
I really like the CrossBlue looks. I think VW needs a bigger 4 cylinder diesel to make the CrossBlue a market winner. The V6 TDI is overkill in my opinion as an owner. Though I love the power. To get a family hauler that gets an honest 30 MPG combined they need an engine like the Mercedes 250 BlueTec.
It also looks to me like TN may become the automaking capitol of the USA if they keep up the current growth. Much better place than Michigan where they scare off prospective companies with their gungho union attitude.
The South's auto industry continues its phenomenal growth, as evidenced by recent expansions expected to bring thousands of new jobs and billions of dollars in new investment – including a deal announced Monday that will bring production of a new SUV to the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga.
With the Volkswagen win, Tennessee is now at the forefront of the industry's growth.
http://www.tennessean.com/story/money/cars/2014/07/14/volkwagen-expansion-chattanooga-crossblue-suv/12616743/
Dealing with heavy traffic and iffy traffic controls today had me wondering again how much better things would be with a diesel hybrid. MB has them in Europe.
To me, 2 issues come to the fore: 1. the percentages ones car and the conditions one operates in the sweet spots of hybrid operation. 2. premiums paid vs the savings. I ran this with 3 cars in mind 04 Civic (38-42 mpg) 03 Jetta TDI (48 to 52 mpg) AND I have read the 04 Prius would have gotten 42 to 45 mpg. The B/E points did not make any economic sense.
The T TDI vs T super charger gasser hybrid is a min of app 15,000 premium.
To the last paragraph, I'd say so what to you got to be out of ones Ever loving mind !!! ??? They can not post the real world road tests legally on the new car sheet anyway !! ???? If so, the diesels (which almost always post BETTER results) would have already. In addition, posting this (real world tests) might have legal, criminal, punitive and monetary penalties not to mention government levies too numerous to mention !!! This "governmental call " is disingenuousness at a high and arrogant level.
Just using one of my latest posts and ANECDOTAL (combined 28 mpg as per new car sticker EPA AND 24/33) DIESEL results, the GLK 250 B/T posted 35 mpg + PLUS or 7/8 mpg BETTER !!!!! (29% better, FULL tank (15 gals of 15.6 gal capacity, 535 miles) and not just computer measurement of a SLIVER. July 7 time frame post)
This might be TMI but now 5 drivers absolutely LOVE this GLK 250 B/T !
While I would HATE to say or even imply, this is just the latest and topic specific and another example of governmental legislative, regulatory shenanigans, with a litany of numerous and easy examples, there CASTS a HUGE level of opaqueness, that literally turned the regulatory shades in the room to BLACK, when they doctored the EPA tests after the 04 Prius brouhaha !! ( 60 C/50 H more like 40 to 44 mpg) So not only were the EPA tests "DOCTORED", but the tests results were doctored IAW the new doctored and doctoring rules !!!!!!! ??????
Keep in mind, nobody is being prosecuted for criminal fraud, etc., etc. for either overstating hybrid results or underrepresenting diesel results.
Hollywood made movies of this thematic issue: sorcerer's apprentice, keystone cops, gang that couldn't shoot straight, three stooges etc. etc.
Even (years) after the "doctoring of the EPA tests, " hybrids STILL can NOT hit the bulls eyes !! ?? (where's Gerdes, et al, when you need em?) This of course further VILIFIES diesels as getting even LESS mpg, when that notion was/is/remains clearly FALSE.
I do not know what it tells anyone else when Gerdes, et al and the Taylors can get 77 /84 + mpg on an Camry sized car (12 Passat TDI) EPA of 43 H, but I know what that tells me. A lot of consumer's CLEARLY can see what is happening.
True, it varies for each driver, but it seems a diesel hybrid would be the best of both worlds - low speed efficiency and high speed efficiency. My car doesn't get remarkable mileage in the urban mess, where hybrids shine. Hybrids lose their benefit on the highway, as mpg falls, and the driving experience becomes less than wonderful.
While this scenario was is 11 plus years old, essentially the question I asked myself in 03 was do I want a highway car that was good to ok in "traffic", or did I want a commute car that was good to ok on the road.
Upshot choices between 03/04 Priuses and 03 Jetta TDI. Essentially what has remained unchanged is app 90% H/10 % C. So for example in the 54 miles daily commute 24 miles freeway (rolling parking lot app 18 to 36 mph) 3 miles. So on a 18,000 miles yearly requirement that is app 1,800 miles C vs 16,200 miles H. Now if it were FLIPPED, perhaps a more logical choice would have been the hybrid. The electoral plug in would probably not have the reserved juice for the heavy stop and go for 49 miles per day.
Keep in mind (I know you know this, this is mainly for the wider audience) the 3.0 L is really optimized for the ROAD. (aka autobahn) On the other hand the 2.0 L TDI gets 40/42 in the same conditions
It's a slow diesel news day when I can only report the ad blue lamp lit (with 1500 miles left), on the 12 VW T TDI. The upshot was app 13,000 miles on 3 gals (@ $12.95 of ad blue @ $10.79 per 2.5 gal container or $4.32 per gal). This comes out to .000996 cents per mile.
TMI are the containers come with a flexible cap hose. One side of the hose screws into the container. The other side of the hose fits right into the opening of the vehicles ad blue container. It let me fill it completely to the top. As a matter of fact fluid dynamics prevented it from gushing out. I looked down to see why it stopped and it was completely filled. Further TMI: it took me longer to take out and replace the "junk in the trunk". I also removed the space saving spare tire. The turning off and on of the ignition seemed to function the ad blue sensors.
Most TDI owners, from the boards I've read, are reporting about a gallon of DEF about every 3,000 miles.
When I had my tire issue last week, they did install the blow up spare. We ran around town till the new Michelins came in. Seemed fine to drive on. We did not exceed the 50 MPH recommendation. I stayed off the Freeways. When you pull the valve stem it deflates back to its original shape to fit in the hole.
I have no idea how much AdBlue I used the first 9500 miles as the dealer topped it off with the free total service agreement. So if I keep it past 48k miles I may find out. Though I plan to use the dealer for service after the 4 YR/48k mile. I found VW service cheaper than Toyota and Lexus. About the same as my GM PU truck service at the dealers. I only used Nissan once for my Frontier as they gouge like Toyota. By the time I need to buy AdBlue it will probably cost less than gas or diesel per gallon. If you can get 3000-5000 per gallon it is a non issue. Mercedes did not do their brand any favors by screwing their customers with $250 AdBlue fills. That generated a lot of negative press against diesels. I guess that is par for the course with the Auto Media diesel haters.
That would be 44% better? Actually your information is a head scratcher. The 2.0 L TDI gets much BETTER mpg than the 3.0 L TDI !! ?? Per postings, I also run a fair amount/percentage @ higher altitudes.
With diesel often cheaper than RUG in my area, not to mention PUG, adblue isn't even a thought in my mind.
Another commuting grind, another day I think of the fuel to be saved with a diesel-hybrid system. As there a few Bluetec Hybrid models now on sale in Germany - a market which is living in the future compared to the US, I have to believe it's a good thing.
I have to shake my head on that one !!!
( MB dealer charging $250 for 5 mins of labor and in my case, $12.95 of RETAIL product (ADBLUE)) ????
I took so long (from R/R junk from trunk to done) because it was my first time and I wanted to visualize how not to spill any product . On 20/20 hindsight, it is far simpler to put down a plastic (garbage) bag or sheet down and throw a cotton towel around the area of the hole.
Or you can get a VW AdBlue bottle with screw on filler. Then cut top out for a screw on funnel.
Too funny ! The UTube video took 5: 04 mins !!
A bit off topic, but funny how Toyota is implementing the platform concept like VW
http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2014/07/14/why-toyota-delayed-the-all-new-2015-prius.aspx?source=ihpsitota0000001&lidx=7
Dispensing @ a fuel station more like $2.79 per DEF gal
http://www.discoverdef.com
More fuel for the EV fans though.
No windshield washer fluid changes either, since you won't be going fast enough and far enough to wipe out a colony of love bugs.
(Have I mentioned lately how much I've enjoyed my electric mower?)
Not sure why:
Not that anyone would know this, but 40 years ago, I had "charge" of two electric tow vehicles. 3 phase 440 V power was "free" (well, you ALL paid for it). One didn't venture into the utility room not knowing what was what and that if you violated this, one could DIE. Geez what a PITA ! It could be life threatening when it crapped out in the middle no where with minus -20 F BELOW. We started every tow action with "hope it's feeling good today". More often than not, NOT !!!!!!
You probably won't need the mower in NM. Unless you want to spend a fortune on water to keep a lawn growing. Better sell it before you leave the UP.
So what does an EV owner do when they have rolling blackouts during hot summer days? Or when they are forced to evacuate an immenent hurricane? An EV at best is a commuter 2nd vehicle. Anyone owning an EV as their only vehicle is a fool
PS
Better unplug the EV when you are not home. If the overcharge circuitry fails you could come home to a charred pile of rubble.
Going to give the mower to my sister; the neighborhood in Las Cruces we like has way too much grass, but that can be remedied.
.
But if I have to get another one, the acquisition costs are cheap.
From my point of view, EV owners and diesel car owners are in the same boat: They both enjoy modest savings on cost per mile but for different reasons. For an EV owner, the "fuel" is cheaper than a gas car; for the diesel owner, the "range" per gallon is better than a gas car.
They also have a negative thing in common---their savings are hard to justify in relation to the purchase price to gain those savings, unless they have gone from a 10 mpg gas hog to a thrifty TDI.
But switching your 2014 4 cylinder compact gas car for a diesel or EV can't be a very satisfying experience when you do the math.
Factoring in all these things, seems to me that both EV and diesel cars will be a niche market for a long time into the future.
..."10 mpg gas hog to a thrifty TDI."...
The system hopes the majority continues to and WANTS to pay MORE !!
Well that is one of the key B/E points is it not? In the case of the (my) TLC that is 14 to 16 mpg ( 4800 #'s to a 31 to 33 mpg VW T TDI (4950 #'s) . So it is easy to do a per year (15,000 miles) and ones' ultimate years of ownership plans.
So just using yearly and 220,000 miles, that is 1,000 gals vs 469 gals, and 14,667 gals vs 6,875 gal.
I am using the 4 per gal metric, as I do not anticipate fuel prices going back to .29 cents in 1976 to 1979 time frames. So, that is $2,124 per year SAVED and $31,168 SAVED. Whether YOU or anyone else thinks it significant or not is a way different discussion. In the "one's nickels" discussion it is intensely personal.
DEFACTO, given 95% of the PVF are gassers, the OVERwhelming majority choose and consistently to pay .... MORE.
We have been saying all alone that diesels are less than 5% of the passenger vehicle fleet (NICHE) . In fact, if fully 50% of those are now " light" trucks, despite the generations long vilification, the fact that diesel CARS are now 2.5% or less is pretty good growth.
But then on the other hand, Uncle Warren bought a Caddie. Does this mean Auntie Mary will ask for a multi billion dollar share buy?
http://money.cnn.com/2014/07/15/autos/warren-buffett-cadillac-xts/index.html
You are probably right about the niche market. When you look at where most of the Population lives in an urban environment, a small gasser or hybrid makes more sense. For the highway travelers, diesel is far and away the best option. For me I cannot imagine getting into a Civolla and heading cross country. Anything smaller than our Touareg will not do. So my going from a 17 MPG SUV to a 29 MPG SUV made all the sense in the World.
I just got off the phone from the local VW dealer, after bringing the 09 Jetta TDI for throwing a few intermittent codes. They called back after a day or two of trouble shooting and told me it was the "high pressure fuel pump " HPFP issue. There was no shrapnel spewed in the fuel system. However, the thrown codes and trouble shooting indicate the HPFP is not functioning as it should. Let's see if VW A steps up to the plate on this premature HPFP failure issue.
Durn cars, it's always something. I'll keep my fingers crossed.
Yes, and thank you. One reason why there is an expectation for VW America to step up is what I have said about cars in general: ANY modern late model car should be able to go 100,000 to 120,000 miles (first major tune) with normal scheduled maintenance and or care. For them NOT to step up, ( for ones that do not cut it) is an indication of "not ready for prime time. " IF they take care of it, really no harm no foul. They will also reinforce the decisions of a three time VW diesel repeat customer. If they do not, I will be one to say BUYER beware !! So to me, it is a question of doing the right things. This has been a known issue for a few years.