We just bought a new Passat Wagon TDI from a great dealer near Portland Oregon. Armstrong Buick VW. Their Internet sales person is great to deal with. Highly recommended. We will fly up in a week and take a little driving vacation to wring it out. Keep you posted on mileage.
It was the posters on Edmund's, yourself included that convinced me it was the way to go. Very few complaints from actual owners. I am looking forward to driving it. I'll post my trip from Oregon mileage. We plan to go down the coast. Any brands of diesel you found better than others. I do plan to run BP ECD-1 when I get it to San Diego. Are fuel additives needed from the start?
Soon they want to introduce diesels in N. America. A 2.2l Honda Accord would be one car that would entice me to put my name on a waiting list, especially if it will be priced slightly higher than a Accord i4.
Thank You, I just drove it from Portland to San Diego. We crisscrossed the state from the coast to the high desert. I have to fill it and get the final average for the 1400 miles. It will be over 36 mpg. The only complaint is the 17" tires and wheels make it a bit noisy on some of the concrete Interstate highways. It handles as well as any car I have driven. On many of the winding back roads I could not get my wife out of the drivers seat. She really liked the way it handles.
I know you asked this a while ago, but I'll throw in my $0.02 as well.....
Any brands of diesel you found better than others.
I haven't found ULSD around my area at any of our BP stattions (or any other station for that matter), so the fuel I prefer right now and is available here to me is Sunoco Premium Diesel. Runs great, and if you are in a pinch and out of your area, I recommend it.
I haven't found ULSD around my area at any of our BP stattions
It looks like they are concentrating their sales in CA. I did not find any listed for Oregon. I printed out 5 sheets of ARCO stations in CA that sell the ECD-1 and that made it easier to find. I would imagine the closer we get to 2006 and the ULSD mandate, refiners will be bringing their diesel up to the higher standard. I wonder if I should use any additives with the ULSD.
This picture was taken along highway 96 in Northern California. It follows the river for 190 miles. Very little traffic and lots of deer along the road. I would not care to drive it after dark.
What is the difference between the two engines? is it just a configuration of the engine computer?
They are actually two completely separate engines...the TDI-PD 1.9L 100HP and the TDI-PD 2.0L 134HP....so the biggest differences (aside from HP/Torque ratings) are displacement and compression (19:1 for the 1.9 and 18.5:1 for the 2.0).
I am planning to buy a TDI Passat. Does anyone know if the new Passat (due summer 2005) will be available with a Diesel engine ? Then is worth the wait . Otherwise I could just buy the current model with TDI. Thanks.
The last I heard, it wasn't coming with a TDI at least initially. No idea when/if though beyond that. They're low volume so VW doesn't worry much about getting them on the streets right away....nice
"They're low volume so VW doesn't worry much about getting them on the streets right away....nice "
During 2004, 40 percent of VWs sold in Canada were diesels. Not an insignificant figure. I believe in USA, TDI sales are not as high due to sales bans in some States. That is a shame!
yeah, I think they're 15% here at the most. Our fuel prices and greenies haven't done anything to encourage folks to be interested in diesels, and even now diesel is more expensive than the cheapest gas for some reason. Typically diesel is the same or a nickel or so less per gallon. It was $.25/gallon higher last time I filled.
I just bought a 2005 TDI wagon (grey, looks green, cool color) in Colorado Springs to replace my tired and much abused 1993 Mercedes 300D. (It had a hard life before I got it) The Passat TDI was one of only a few left, as they are selling briskly. The new 2006 jettas have arrived but are all gassers, no firm date when TDI's will show. I assume the same will hold for the Passat TDI's. I couldn't wait the 2006 or for the car I really want, so this will be a transition. I would really like to get the new Mercedes R Class with the new V-6 CDI diesel. Its going to be AWD 7 passenger. Again Gasser version comes first, this Fall is the latest I heard, with the Diesel to follow Who knows when the CDI will make its way here....2007? I'll wait and see. In the mean time the Passat is a very competent car. It blows the doors off most gas cars of similar size and handles the mountian roads well.
Question - Has anyone seen a performance chip for the 2.0 L TDI. I didn't realize this was a relatively new engine (apparently its punched out 1.9L TDI). The only places I find much information is at UK and Deutchland sites. Any help?
I currently own a 95 Camry wagon with a V6. We've had it since new, it's got great power, it's a great car, but it's got almost 200,000 miles and it's time for something new, as we'll be putting in some serious miles over the next three years.
I really like the thought of almost 40mpg with the Passat wagon, but one review indicated the 134HP TDI was plenty of power for the sedan, but underpowered for the wagon.
It'll be hard for me to test drive one, as I live in CA but will be transferred to NC this summer and want to buy one in AZ and drive it out there where I'll register it in NC.
Would appreciate some feedback on the power issue, and if anyone has also driven the Camry V6 wagon for comparison, that would be even better!
RC, Can't speak to the Camry wagon. Just bought a '05 Passat GLS Wagon TDi with 17" alloys for 23,145 including freight. Have over a thousand miles on it since Friday and absolutely love it. Can't say as I feel that the car is underpowered in any way -- just drove 650# of coworkers (plus me) to lunch and the car was perfectly zippy. Was moving at 85 in SC last week with no worries, no downshift needed to pass or for hills. Pulled 33 mpg while varying rpms and trying to stay between 2-4k rpm for break-in. FWIW, I bought without a test drive, never even sat in one; took a look at the ext. colors at a local dealer, but otherwise, it was all online and on the phone. The dealer picked it up 150 miles from me, stopped at my credit union, and delivered to my door for no extra charge. All in all, I'm far happier than I could have imagined, and at least one coworker will probably own one by next week. From what I can gather, if you like this body style and the TDi, you might want to move fairly quickly. Best of luck!
I had three V6 Camrys over the years ('92, '94, '97). The '92-96 models were rock-solid, the '97 pretty much wasn't of the same caliber and I started getting away from Toyota. I think you'll be satisfied with the TDI. It's not going to be as quick 0-60 as you're used to (although, mine was getting pretty slow by 200k miles) but it will cruise just as effortlessly. The TDI will be a bit more noisy during acceleration and such. That 3.0L was a very smooth motor, but mine were all thirsty. Usually only averaged 23-24mpg on regular.
The wagon barely weighs more than a couple hundred pounds over the sedan, so does the sedan feel underpowered with an extra passenger?? You'll really have to drive one and see what you think, no way around that.
FWIW, I got rid of my '97 V6 Camry in early '00 and bought my Jetta TDI. At first, it felt a tad slower in general driving, but out on the highway it felt terrific. Very similar actually. I've since made some performance mods to the Jetta and it feels equally quick IMHO. I'm sure there will be some performance mods for the Passats down the road (if not already). I've driven the sedan and wagon and though they both felt more than adequate. If you don't need the bigger vehicle, the Jetta wagon is not THAT much smaller than the Passat and can average in the mid-40's in fuel with a manual tranny. The back seat is a bit larger in the Passat and it's a bit wider, but front seat comfort is very similar IMHO. I had planned to run right out and buy a Passat TDI when they came out, but I just can't get rid of my Jetta yet. The room just wasn't a big enough factor for me. Good luck!
From what I can gather, if you like this body style and the TDi, you might want to move fairly quickly.
I second that motion. I just bought one in Oregon and drove it to CA. I will take it to Hawaii is my plan. It is far from under powered. I worried about a ticket as it cruised so effortlessly at 75 MPH. Great mileage on first 1600 miles. No regrets. $26,589 out the door with leather/wood trim, 17" wheels, ESP & Splash guards. I can't keep it away from my wife. Her Lexus just sits in the garage.
gagrice, how are you working the registration in CA? I live in Encinitas, and would prefer to register it here if possible, as I could buy one now instead of waiting until I left.
Other than that, it seems as if I'll probably go with it, although I'd rather have an 06, but that might be a long time in coming in a wagon configuration with a TDI, plus probably a lot more expensive.
I'd also have no problems with the Jetta as a possibility, but doesn't it come with the 100hp motor vice the 134 of the Passat.
I'd also have no problems with the Jetta as a possibility, but doesn't it come with the 100hp motor vice the 134 of the Passat.
Yes, the Jetta has the 100HP/177TQ motor instead of the 134HP/247TQ motor, but the Jetta Wagon Curb weight is 3095lbs and the Passat Curb Weight is 3519lbs.....a difference of 424 lbs. In other word the Passat is approximately 14% heavier than the Jetta.
I have both the Jetta GLS TDI Sedan and the Passat GLS TDI sedan and they are comparable as far as acceleration, although the Passat DOES FEEL like it out accelerates the Jetta it is not by much. They both REALLY SHINE at 30-70mph.
Unless you get a TDI with 7500 miles it will not be possible to register in CA. You could buy in Oregon and register in NC. Oregon dealers will give you a 3 month temp license. If it is going to be longer than that you may not be in luck. I have registered mine to my Alaska residence. If we really like it then it will go to our place in Hawaii and be licensed over there. Oregon does not have any sales tax so it will only cost whatever NC charges. I would not expect any TDI wagons until late in 2006. Good luck,
Other than that, it seems as if I'll probably go with it, although I'd rather have an 06, but that might be a long time in coming in a wagon configuration with a TDI, plus probably a lot more expensive.
Keep in mind both the Jetta and Passat are quite late in their life cycles (but still very competitive vehicles IMHO, which says a lot). That being said, these '05 models should be quite bug-free compared with a new release. VW worries me a bit right now on this new model, simply because the Dollar/Euro is beating the heck out of euro manufacturers profit. They're really struggling to control costs. I've not seen a lot of really positive reviews on the new Jetta either. I had some bugs in my '00 (not near as bad as some folks) but I wouldn't have a problem buying a new '05 model. I still think my '00 is a sharp looking car compared to what's available now. The new Jetta is bigger though, but looks like a bloated Corolla to me.
Keep in mind both the Jetta and Passat are quite late in their life cycles (but still very competitive vehicles IMHO, which says a lot). That being said, these '05 models should be quite bug-free compared with a new release.
Good point, I had thought of that also. I actually like the looks of the current model, but figured the newer body style might not seem as dated a few years down the road. That being said, the current model looks pretty darn nice and will probably age just fine, not to mention will be less expensive and is available now!
I've got a stonehenge gray/anthracite leather one located in Scottsdale. We have a place in Sedona we rent out, so I suppose I could register it at that address and have the renters forward DMV info to me in CA.
Thanks for all the good info on the Passat TDI. Belated congrats Gagrice on your new Passat. I'm planning on getting one, and was wondering if you had any advice on how to get a price as good as what you got. I was talking to a couple of different salesman a few weeks ago, one quoted me $23,335 on a Passat TDI GL Wagon, and asked for a credit card deposit, then called back an hour later and said he mis-quoted me and it would be $24,335 and that I should have given him my deposit before. The second guy was offering I think around $24,500, $500 off of MSRP. Any pointers on buying on-line. thanks for the good news tc.
I just searched the Internet until I found a good dealer. It is Armstrong Buick VW in Gladstone Oregon. I just sent an email and got very quick response. The price I got was an additional $1000 off for cash or getting my own financing. There was no document fees. They would take care of the license except Alaska does not allow that. I had to do my own when I got back up here. Ask for the Internet salesman and he will take good care of you. He came and picked us up at the airport in our new car so we could test drive prior to handing over the money. Good Luck
Cingreen, see above for the price I got on my TDi Wagon (about $5k under MSRP). I went to VW's site and searched for dealers within 120 miles of my home to check inventories. I then went to a site that let me request quotes 3 at a time, and just sent out quotes to all of them. Once I'd received the "auto-reply" emails from those dealers, I responded to each with a frank comment about what I wanted, asking for the absolute best price they could do. After receiving their responses, I went back to the best 3 and said I was ready to buy, was this their absolute best price. I finalized it on the phone with one dealer, letting him know I was ready to buy as soon as I was sure it was the right deal, and from that point forward I didn't back down at all. He tried a few things, like adding delivery charge, or delaying the delivery of the car to me, etc, but each time I was able to mention the other offers. I wouldn't give a cc until I saw the written buyer's order and was sure there were no hidden fees there. In short, I got the car I wanted at a price way better than I expected, and the dealer took care of all details including driving the car to my home. Grand total of maybe 30 emails and 4 phone calls. If you're ready to move immediately, the cash incentives run out May 2, and today's the last day of the month, so I think there's a terrific deal waiting for you. BTW, the dealer I went with was in a major market, and he went about $1700 lower than my small town dealer. I like to shop locally, but the sales manager here in town couldn't come close, and didn't begrudge me buying elsewhere when he heard the price. Good luck! Best, Joel
I would appreciate all remarks from anyone who cares to respond. Thanks in advance.
I am going to be a first time VW Passat GLS TDI owner. More importantly, this is the first time I will be owning a diesel.
1) What quirks, if any, should I expect from the car? 2) How is the quality of the VW product now? I know the warranty used to be 2yrs.- 24K for the longest time? 3) I know the timing belt is very important on a diesel. Dealer told me the 2005 TB change is at 105,000. Is that true? 4) How is the car in the snow? I live in NJ and we can have some pretty bad winters. Do you recommend snow tires? 5) Can I change the oil myself? If so, what brand and weight should I use? Can you use synthetic oil in a VW? How often do you change the oil? 6) My commute to work is 70 miles round trip all hwy. What type of mpg should I expect? 7) Seems there are a few quirks with a diesel, ie - fuel gelling in winter, carbon buildup, hard starting in winter, etc. What can I do as an owner to avoid these problems?
Now for the kicker - I have put a deposit on an '05 Passat TDI GLS w/ Leather & Wood Package. Car cost me $26,057 inc. destination and the dealer threw in a set of rubber mats. This price is before NJ tax and MV Fees. Is $26,057 a good price for the car?
Being a well experienced diesel owner, I will try as help as much as I can.......
1) What quirks, if any, should I expect from the car?
First of all, make sure the glowplugs are warmed up before you start the car.....these cars they are usually warm enough within 3 seconds on even the coldest of mornings (I live in extreme northern Indiana and have had zero problems). Second diesels like to "warm up" for a second before driving...let it idle for about 30 seconds...
2) How is the quality of the VW product now? I know the warranty used to be 2yrs.- 24K for the longest time?
Warranty is now 4/50K for Basic, 5/60K drivetrain and 12yr unlimited for rust...plus 4/50K roadside......I have had zero problems out of my 04 and 05 VWs...I also have a friend with an 02 Jetta TDI 75K miles now....once again zero problems...most of the VW problems you'll see (drivetrain wise) are on the gasser models....
3) I know the timing belt is very important on a diesel. Dealer told me the 2005 TB change is at 105,000. Is that true?
I believe this is true, I plan on chagning at ~90K miles....
4) How is the car in the snow? I live in NJ and we can have some pretty bad winters. Do you recommend snow tires?
I think we average 76" of snow per year (I'm 40 miles East of Lake Michigan and get clobbered with Lake Effect) Both of my VW's have ESP (traction control) and I didn't have any problems this last winter with OEM tires....
5) Can I change the oil myself? If so, what brand and weight should I use? Can you use synthetic oil in a VW? How often do you change the oil?
I don't change my oil myself, but I suppose it is possible. I use the Castrol 505.01 VW Spec oil which is a 5W40 Synthetic, but whatever you do make sure the oil you use is VW Spec 505.01 or you will void your warranty. The oil changes are recommended by VW every 10K miles (I do mine every 5-7.5K, but I'm OC about it)
6) My commute to work is 70 miles round trip all hwy. What type of mpg should I expect?
I am AVERAGING now about 36MPG in mixed driving with my Passat GLS TDI sedan...43MPG hwy @ 75mph.....EPA estimates are conservative for this car.....but YMMV
7) Seems there are a few quirks with a diesel, ie - fuel gelling in winter, carbon buildup, hard starting in winter, etc. What can I do as an owner to avoid these problems?
In the winter you'll find "Winterized Diesel" at you local pump...no gelling problems at all, and this is with 3-4 weeks of solid single digit temps. Carbon, my cars are too new to tell, but yearly checks with your mechanic I suppose would help. Once again, I've had 0 problems starting my cars in the winter...even after sitting outside in single digits all day at work during the winter (although it does take a few minutes for the heater to get warm).
Car cost me $26,057 inc. destination and the dealer threw in a set of rubber mats.
I paid $26,200 for mine then got a VW loyalty of $500, making it $25,700...so you are in the same ballpark as I am. I have noticed others on the board in the last month getting a little better prices, but mine was $2200 off MSRP and a few hundred over invoice, so I felt good about my deal.....
I just bought a Passat TDI Wagon and it is a wonderful car. Excellent handling, gutsy acceleration, and is exactly what I need for my 60 mile round trip job commute here in Michigan. It seems to to matter little how many people or how much stuff I have in the car, it just presses on regardless. The only option I have on mine are the 17 Inch wheels. If I had to sum it up: Refined, Rock Solid and Gutsy.
Hi, and thank you -PR- for answering those newbie questions as they help me too.
I'm wondering about whether I should begin using a cetane additive on a regular/frequent basis? My understanding is that it helps: slightly lower noise, reduces the white smoke on cold start-ups, and will help reduce carbon build-up over time, and will help lubricity issues. What is the general consensus on these claims? If recommended, what is a good brand; where do people buy it?
We just got our new silver, automatic GLS Sat. night. It is the medium gray leatherette inside, and has the ESP and cold wx package (seats, wiper sprayers). It had the floor mats already in it. I had the dealer throw in the VW 17" wheels/tires and a "Gorilla" rear floor mat system (keeps groceries in place); those 2 items are sticker about $500.
Paid $24302 total (not including WA taxes, fees); this was the invoice base of 23485 (Pac NW region) plus shipping and a couple minor fees. So, we paid just "invoice". Also got the 2.9% VW loan for 66 months, plus put $3000 of the total on the VW credit card at 0% intro APR for 6 months; also put some cash down.
The dealer has a good selection of TDI sedans and wagons, with or without the $1500 leather package. Robert Larson Autohaus in Tacoma, WA. They have wagons too.
My first real trip was this AM; the trip computer (#1) from house to parking lot said 41.2 mpg for a few miles back country rds and then the rest freeway commuting; total distance is like 48.5 miles, all at sea level.
How accurate is the trip computer in your Passats??
The trip computer on the Passat is about the same as all the rest, generous.
I just got back from a trip from Dallas to San Antonio and back. I tried to hold it at about 2000 RPM's or about 67 MPH. A total of 546.5 miles, 14.084 gals of diesel result of 36.47 MPG. My trip computer showed 41.+.
I have an 05 Passat TDI. It has plenty of power. I was driving a G35 sedan and just sole it. I like the Passat TDI so much, I have ordered the new Jetta TDI. My brother in law purchased the first one in from our local VW dealer about 1.5 weeks ago. He has package 1 with the DSG 6 speed automatic. The car is quick and comfortable. There is a little more road feel thatn the passat with 16" tires but still comfortable and peppy. I am looking forward to getiing my Jetta. My brother in law get 37 MPG combined driving with his on his first fuel top off. All in all, this car should be as good as the Passat. Glad I found diesel and VW. Also, no mention of when the 06 Passat diesel will come to the U.S.( if at all.) in most of thecar mags I receive. However, VW is a very clsoed mouth organization and I would be surprised if they did not bring them in country very shortly after the gassers. The new Jetta arrived in abundance in gass engine models. One month later, the diesels are finding their way to dealers slowly. The flood gates will be opening.But just in case, you had better not wait on the 05 wagon if you like it cause there don't seem to be many around.
The trip computer on the Passat is about the same as all the rest, generous.
I agree that the trip computer is generous.....I hand calculate every tank in all three of my vehicles, I've found the Passat trip computer to be about 2-3mpg higher than what I hand calculate (oddly the FORD trip computer is usually within 1mpg...). That being said, I'm still averaging mid 30's (35-36mpg) in mixed driving, so even if the trip computer is a little generous, I'm still obtaining OUTSTANDING mileage in a midsized car.
Sahara111.....I just answered you question about the trip computer. As far as additives go, I don't use any, I use Sunoco Premium Diesel which is available right aroun the corner from me and ironically the Sunoco Station is most of the time a cent or two cheaper than all of the competitors....go figure. Premium diesel is not available everywhere though...but it does have a higher cetane rating than regular #2 diesel.
I was thinking of using the Diesel Kleen product right away. Should I wait until after break-in? Have you heard of this product and/or does it have a good reputation? Do you recommend a different product instead?
Does anyone experience a little bit of stumbling at around 70 - 75 MPH? It happens on occasion, not consistently. It is usually when I back off from 90+ MPH and then give it partial throttle to speed up again. I'm finding that I like to drive 90-95 MPH. It pulls like a freight train up to that speed. I haven't gone past 95 because I'm still breaking it in.
I have to report that my first fill-up was 12.3 gallons and I went 340 miles which comes to 27.6 MPG. Now... I didn't fill it up, the dealer did. So it might not have been topped off. It was Sunoco diesel. Plus I tend to drive fast. So I'm sure that this doesn't help the MPG, much either.
I found that the tires were under-inflated as well. 35PSI all around, so I bumped them up to 40 PSI. ANother thing... I'm really glad that I'm back in a car in which I have full control of the Cabin environment. My last car was a Touareg and I grew to dislike the climate control, there were some days that I just wanted to turn it off and let the wind do it's thing. I love the elegant simplicity of the GLS Passat.
I took my TDI wagon in for the 10,000 mile oil change this week. The service department did not have it finished when promised, so the service manager offered me a 2002 1.8T automatic Passat loaner to use overnight. Needless to say, the frequent downshifting was irritating, and I was constantly giving the gasser more and more gas to perform in the manner to which I had become accustomed. The next day when I picked up my TDI, the bill was a pleasant surprise: "NC". As I happily pulled out of the dealer's lot in my TDI, I inadvertently burned rubber. Guess I adjusted to that gasser despite my irritation with it.
I read in Road & Track that Audi will be releasing an A4 with 3 available diesels. A 2.0, 2.7 (available in manual trans) and a 3.4. Am I to assume these will make their way to the Passat? Priced pretty high, no doubt.
Hey Yall I will be picking up my new 2005 Passat TDI GLS with the cold weather package and 17" alloys and with be paying 24500- 500 loyalty for owning a 71 super. What do you all think of the price I am getting also I am thinking of getting the 6 year 100,000 mile warranty as I want to keep this car for a long time. Also does any body know where I can find the specific oil needed for this diesel as the service guy at my local dealer said I can bring him the oil and filter and only get charged 16.xx bucks for the labor of changing my oil. I would love to here all of your comments. :shades:
I have a couple of questions regarding the following:
Fuel Additives - I saw you answered another post where you recommended adding PowerService Diesel Kleen. I went to WalMart but they did not have Diesel Kleen. They did have another PowerService brand fuel additive called "Diesel Fuel Supplement + Cetane Boost". Seems like this product is geared more for "winter" use than the all year round use of "Diesel Kleen". At this point I have been to WalMart, AutoZone & a local parts store and cannot find "Diesel Kleen". What do you recommend I do? PowerService web site does say you can use "Supplement" year round. What are your thoughts?
Motor Oil - I found Castrol Syntec 5w-40 in Auto Zone. Now the back of the bottle says "505.00" not "505.01". Also, the back of the bottle does say "meets specifications of Volkswagen Diesel TDI Engines." Do you think this is the same oil or does it have to be 505.01. Like I pointed out, this is 505.00.
yes there are different fuel additives optimized for summer & winter. a winter additive is still going to be helpful in summer. powerservice silver or white bottle, optimized for summer & winter, respectively. personally i only add the additive when outside temps are going to be 10F or below.
as for motor oil, if it says 505.00 it's the wrong oil for your PD TDI . it has to say 505.01. i think you won't find any at any retailers yet. the 2003s & earlier can use 505.00 though. the 505.01 is $7 or $7.50 per gallon at the local volksy dealer. expensive but it's a must-have - oil change is every 10k with these cars so that's reasonable... .
Hey there group, any word on the '06 Passat TDI. I've been climbing the West Coast elevations like a crazy man in my current Golf TDI and will wait for the '06 Passat TDI if it's coming soon??? Thanks.
The car is perfect, TDI engine too. The quality of WV products is very hi, don`t worry about that The timing belt is very important, but you must change the belt at 90000 kilometers and 120000 kilometers if the engine is 2.5 TDI or 3.0 TDI You must use only this oil - 505.01 and 506.01 , expensive but that is it. No alternative. This engines are very powerfull but they used only 6-7 liter diesel/100 km There is no way to have any problem in the winter with this car The price is perfect , the same car cost in Europe $ 40000
Comments
-PR-
03 Ford F350 SuperCrew KingRanch 6.0 Powerstroke Diesel
04 VW Jetta GLS TDI
05 VW Passat GLS TDI
Passat Wagon TDI is among my top picks. I would appreciate it more if there was a manual version.
Read some exciting news about Honda.
http://www.autoweek.com/news.cms?newsId=102192
Soon they want to introduce diesels in N. America. A 2.2l Honda Accord would be one car that would entice me to put my name on a waiting list, especially if it will be priced slightly higher than a Accord i4.
Thank You,
I just drove it from Portland to San Diego. We crisscrossed the state from the coast to the high desert. I have to fill it and get the final average for the 1400 miles. It will be over 36 mpg. The only complaint is the 17" tires and wheels make it a bit noisy on some of the concrete Interstate highways. It handles as well as any car I have driven. On many of the winding back roads I could not get my wife out of the drivers seat. She really liked the way it handles.
Any brands of diesel you found better than others.
I haven't found ULSD around my area at any of our BP stattions (or any other station for that matter), so the fuel I prefer right now and is available here to me is Sunoco Premium Diesel. Runs great, and if you are in a pinch and out of your area, I recommend it.
It looks like they are concentrating their sales in CA. I did not find any listed for Oregon. I printed out 5 sheets of ARCO stations in CA that sell the ECD-1 and that made it easier to find. I would imagine the closer we get to 2006 and the ULSD mandate, refiners will be bringing their diesel up to the higher standard. I wonder if I should use any additives with the ULSD.
http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2004/07/29/206426.html
They are actually two completely separate engines...the TDI-PD 1.9L 100HP and the TDI-PD 2.0L 134HP....so the biggest differences (aside from HP/Torque ratings) are displacement and compression (19:1 for the 1.9 and 18.5:1 for the 2.0).
LINK to the VW Engines Flash
LINK to the 2002 TDI Engines Specifications
Does anyone know if the new Passat (due summer 2005) will be available with a Diesel engine ? Then is worth the wait . Otherwise I could just buy the current model with TDI.
Thanks.
During 2004, 40 percent of VWs sold in Canada were diesels. Not an insignificant figure. I believe in USA, TDI sales are not as high due to sales bans in some States. That is a shame!
The Passat TDI was one of only a few left, as they are selling briskly. The new 2006 jettas have arrived but are all gassers, no firm date when TDI's will show. I assume the same will hold for the Passat TDI's. I couldn't wait the 2006 or for the car I really want, so this will be a transition. I would really like to get the new Mercedes R Class with the new V-6 CDI diesel. Its going to be AWD 7 passenger. Again Gasser version comes first, this Fall is the latest I heard, with the Diesel to follow Who knows when the CDI will make its way here....2007? I'll wait and see.
In the mean time the Passat is a very competent car. It blows the doors off most gas cars of similar size and handles the mountian roads well.
Question - Has anyone seen a performance chip for the 2.0 L TDI.
I didn't realize this was a relatively new engine (apparently its punched out 1.9L TDI). The only places I find much information is at UK and Deutchland sites.
Any help?
I really like the thought of almost 40mpg with the Passat wagon, but one review indicated the 134HP TDI was plenty of power for the sedan, but underpowered for the wagon.
It'll be hard for me to test drive one, as I live in CA but will be transferred to NC this summer and want to buy one in AZ and drive it out there where I'll register it in NC.
Would appreciate some feedback on the power issue, and if anyone has also driven the Camry V6 wagon for comparison, that would be even better!
Thanks for the help...RC
Can't speak to the Camry wagon.
Just bought a '05 Passat GLS Wagon TDi with 17" alloys for 23,145 including freight. Have over a thousand miles on it since Friday and absolutely love it. Can't say as I feel that the car is underpowered in any way -- just drove 650# of coworkers (plus me) to lunch and the car was perfectly zippy. Was moving at 85 in SC last week with no worries, no downshift needed to pass or for hills. Pulled 33 mpg while varying rpms and trying to stay between 2-4k rpm for break-in.
FWIW, I bought without a test drive, never even sat in one; took a look at the ext. colors at a local dealer, but otherwise, it was all online and on the phone. The dealer picked it up 150 miles from me, stopped at my credit union, and delivered to my door for no extra charge.
All in all, I'm far happier than I could have imagined, and at least one coworker will probably own one by next week.
From what I can gather, if you like this body style and the TDi, you might want to move fairly quickly.
Best of luck!
The wagon barely weighs more than a couple hundred pounds over the sedan, so does the sedan feel underpowered with an extra passenger?? You'll really have to drive one and see what you think, no way around that.
FWIW, I got rid of my '97 V6 Camry in early '00 and bought my Jetta TDI. At first, it felt a tad slower in general driving, but out on the highway it felt terrific. Very similar actually. I've since made some performance mods to the Jetta and it feels equally quick IMHO. I'm sure there will be some performance mods for the Passats down the road (if not already). I've driven the sedan and wagon and though they both felt more than adequate. If you don't need the bigger vehicle, the Jetta wagon is not THAT much smaller than the Passat and can average in the mid-40's in fuel with a manual tranny. The back seat is a bit larger in the Passat and it's a bit wider, but front seat comfort is very similar IMHO. I had planned to run right out and buy a Passat TDI when they came out, but I just can't get rid of my Jetta yet. The room just wasn't a big enough factor for me. Good luck!
I second that motion. I just bought one in Oregon and drove it to CA. I will take it to Hawaii is my plan. It is far from under powered. I worried about a ticket as it cruised so effortlessly at 75 MPH. Great mileage on first 1600 miles. No regrets. $26,589 out the door with leather/wood trim, 17" wheels, ESP & Splash guards. I can't keep it away from my wife. Her Lexus just sits in the garage.
gagrice, how are you working the registration in CA? I live in Encinitas, and would prefer to register it here if possible, as I could buy one now instead of waiting until I left.
Other than that, it seems as if I'll probably go with it, although I'd rather have an 06, but that might be a long time in coming in a wagon configuration with a TDI, plus probably a lot more expensive.
I'd also have no problems with the Jetta as a possibility, but doesn't it come with the 100hp motor vice the 134 of the Passat.
Thanks again, y'all are a lot of help...RC
Yes, the Jetta has the 100HP/177TQ motor instead of the 134HP/247TQ motor, but the Jetta Wagon Curb weight is 3095lbs and the Passat Curb Weight is 3519lbs.....a difference of 424 lbs. In other word the Passat is approximately 14% heavier than the Jetta.
I have both the Jetta GLS TDI Sedan and the Passat GLS TDI sedan and they are comparable as far as acceleration, although the Passat DOES FEEL like it out accelerates the Jetta it is not by much. They both REALLY SHINE at 30-70mph.
-PR-
AKA Mr. Diesel
Keep in mind both the Jetta and Passat are quite late in their life cycles (but still very competitive vehicles IMHO, which says a lot). That being said, these '05 models should be quite bug-free compared with a new release. VW worries me a bit right now on this new model, simply because the Dollar/Euro is beating the heck out of euro manufacturers profit. They're really struggling to control costs. I've not seen a lot of really positive reviews on the new Jetta either. I had some bugs in my '00 (not near as bad as some folks) but I wouldn't have a problem buying a new '05 model. I still think my '00 is a sharp looking car compared to what's available now. The new Jetta is bigger though, but looks like a bloated Corolla to me.
Good point, I had thought of that also. I actually like the looks of the current model, but figured the newer body style might not seem as dated a few years down the road. That being said, the current model looks pretty darn nice and will probably age just fine, not to mention will be less expensive and is available now!
I've got a stonehenge gray/anthracite leather one located in Scottsdale. We have a place in Sedona we rent out, so I suppose I could register it at that address and have the renters forward DMV info to me in CA.
RC
After receiving their responses, I went back to the best 3 and said I was ready to buy, was this their absolute best price. I finalized it on the phone with one dealer, letting him know I was ready to buy as soon as I was sure it was the right deal, and from that point forward I didn't back down at all. He tried a few things, like adding delivery charge, or delaying the delivery of the car to me, etc, but each time I was able to mention the other offers.
I wouldn't give a cc until I saw the written buyer's order and was sure there were no hidden fees there.
In short, I got the car I wanted at a price way better than I expected, and the dealer took care of all details including driving the car to my home. Grand total of maybe 30 emails and 4 phone calls.
If you're ready to move immediately, the cash incentives run out May 2, and today's the last day of the month, so I think there's a terrific deal waiting for you.
BTW, the dealer I went with was in a major market, and he went about $1700 lower than my small town dealer. I like to shop locally, but the sales manager here in town couldn't come close, and didn't begrudge me buying elsewhere when he heard the price.
Good luck!
Best,
Joel
I am going to be a first time VW Passat GLS TDI owner. More importantly, this is the first time I will be owning a diesel.
1) What quirks, if any, should I expect from the car?
2) How is the quality of the VW product now? I know the warranty used to be 2yrs.- 24K for the longest time?
3) I know the timing belt is very important on a diesel. Dealer told me the 2005 TB change is at 105,000. Is that true?
4) How is the car in the snow? I live in NJ and we can have some pretty bad winters. Do you recommend snow tires?
5) Can I change the oil myself? If so, what brand and weight should I use? Can you use synthetic oil in a VW? How often do you change the oil?
6) My commute to work is 70 miles round trip all hwy. What type of mpg should I expect?
7) Seems there are a few quirks with a diesel, ie - fuel gelling in winter, carbon buildup, hard starting in winter, etc. What can I do as an owner to avoid these problems?
Now for the kicker - I have put a deposit on an '05 Passat TDI GLS w/ Leather & Wood Package. Car cost me $26,057 inc. destination and the dealer threw in a set of rubber mats. This price is before NJ tax and MV Fees. Is $26,057 a good price for the car?
I appreciate all who answer. Thanks again.
1) What quirks, if any, should I expect from the car?
First of all, make sure the glowplugs are warmed up before you start the car.....these cars they are usually warm enough within 3 seconds on even the coldest of mornings (I live in extreme northern Indiana and have had zero problems). Second diesels like to "warm up" for a second before driving...let it idle for about 30 seconds...
2) How is the quality of the VW product now? I know the warranty used to be 2yrs.- 24K for the longest time?
Warranty is now 4/50K for Basic, 5/60K drivetrain and 12yr unlimited for rust...plus 4/50K roadside......I have had zero problems out of my 04 and 05 VWs...I also have a friend with an 02 Jetta TDI 75K miles now....once again zero problems...most of the VW problems you'll see (drivetrain wise) are on the gasser models....
3) I know the timing belt is very important on a diesel. Dealer told me the 2005 TB change is at 105,000. Is that true?
I believe this is true, I plan on chagning at ~90K miles....
4) How is the car in the snow? I live in NJ and we can have some pretty bad winters. Do you recommend snow tires?
I think we average 76" of snow per year (I'm 40 miles East of Lake Michigan and get clobbered with Lake Effect) Both of my VW's have ESP (traction control) and I didn't have any problems this last winter with OEM tires....
5) Can I change the oil myself? If so, what brand and weight should I use? Can you use synthetic oil in a VW? How often do you change the oil?
I don't change my oil myself, but I suppose it is possible. I use the Castrol 505.01 VW Spec oil which is a 5W40 Synthetic, but whatever you do make sure the oil you use is VW Spec 505.01 or you will void your warranty. The oil changes are recommended by VW every 10K miles (I do mine every 5-7.5K, but I'm OC about it)
6) My commute to work is 70 miles round trip all hwy. What type of mpg should I expect?
I am AVERAGING now about 36MPG in mixed driving with my Passat GLS TDI sedan...43MPG hwy @ 75mph.....EPA estimates are conservative for this car.....but YMMV
7) Seems there are a few quirks with a diesel, ie - fuel gelling in winter, carbon buildup, hard starting in winter, etc. What can I do as an owner to avoid these problems?
In the winter you'll find "Winterized Diesel" at you local pump...no gelling problems at all, and this is with 3-4 weeks of solid single digit temps. Carbon, my cars are too new to tell, but yearly checks with your mechanic I suppose would help. Once again, I've had 0 problems starting my cars in the winter...even after sitting outside in single digits all day at work during the winter (although it does take a few minutes for the heater to get warm).
Car cost me $26,057 inc. destination and the dealer threw in a set of rubber mats.
I paid $26,200 for mine then got a VW loyalty of $500, making it $25,700...so you are in the same ballpark as I am. I have noticed others on the board in the last month getting a little better prices, but mine was $2200 off MSRP and a few hundred over invoice, so I felt good about my deal.....
-PR-
03 Ford F350 SuperCrew KingRanch 6.0L Powerstroke
04 VW Jetta GLS TDI
05 VW Passat GLS TDI
If I had to sum it up: Refined, Rock Solid and Gutsy.
I'm wondering about whether I should begin using a cetane additive on a regular/frequent basis? My understanding is that it helps: slightly lower noise, reduces the white smoke on cold start-ups, and will help reduce carbon build-up over time, and will help lubricity issues. What is the general consensus on these claims? If recommended, what is a good brand; where do people buy it?
We just got our new silver, automatic GLS Sat. night. It is the medium gray leatherette inside, and has the ESP and cold wx package (seats, wiper sprayers). It had the floor mats already in it. I had the dealer throw in the VW 17" wheels/tires and a "Gorilla" rear floor mat system (keeps groceries in place); those 2 items are sticker about $500.
Paid $24302 total (not including WA taxes, fees); this was the invoice base of 23485 (Pac NW region) plus shipping and a couple minor fees. So, we paid just "invoice". Also got the 2.9% VW loan for 66 months, plus put $3000 of the total on the VW credit card at 0% intro APR for 6 months; also put some cash down.
The dealer has a good selection of TDI sedans and wagons, with or without the $1500 leather package. Robert Larson Autohaus in Tacoma, WA. They have wagons too.
My first real trip was this AM; the trip computer (#1) from house to parking lot said 41.2 mpg for a few miles back country rds and then the rest freeway commuting; total distance is like 48.5 miles, all at sea level.
How accurate is the trip computer in your Passats??
Thanks for the advice.
I have 11,500 miles and have owned it 8 months
My over all average mileage is 32.5 MPG
Best highway is 38+
Worst city is 27+
The trip computer on the Passat is about the same as all the rest, generous.
I just got back from a trip from Dallas to San Antonio and back. I tried to hold it at about 2000 RPM's or about 67 MPH. A total of 546.5 miles, 14.084 gals of diesel result of 36.47 MPG. My trip computer showed 41.+.
I agree that the trip computer is generous.....I hand calculate every tank in all three of my vehicles, I've found the Passat trip computer to be about 2-3mpg higher than what I hand calculate (oddly the FORD trip computer is usually within 1mpg...). That being said, I'm still averaging mid 30's (35-36mpg) in mixed driving, so even if the trip computer is a little generous, I'm still obtaining OUTSTANDING mileage in a midsized car.
Sahara111.....I just answered you question about the trip computer. As far as additives go, I don't use any, I use Sunoco Premium Diesel which is available right aroun the corner from me and ironically the Sunoco Station is most of the time a cent or two cheaper than all of the competitors....go figure. Premium diesel is not available everywhere though...but it does have a higher cetane rating than regular #2 diesel.
-PR-
-PR- thanks for your advice.
-Sahara111
I have to report that my first fill-up was 12.3 gallons and I went 340 miles which comes to 27.6 MPG. Now... I didn't fill it up, the dealer did. So it might not have been topped off. It was Sunoco diesel. Plus I tend to drive fast. So I'm sure that this doesn't help the MPG, much either.
I found that the tires were under-inflated as well. 35PSI all around, so I bumped them up to 40 PSI.
ANother thing... I'm really glad that I'm back in a car in which I have full control of the Cabin environment. My last car was a Touareg and I grew to dislike the climate control, there were some days that I just wanted to turn it off and let the wind do it's thing. I love the elegant simplicity of the GLS Passat.
I will be picking up my new 2005 Passat TDI GLS with the cold weather package and 17" alloys and with be paying 24500- 500 loyalty for owning a 71 super. What do you all think of the price I am getting also I am thinking of getting the 6 year 100,000 mile warranty as I want to keep this car for a long time. Also does any body know where I can find the specific oil needed for this diesel as the service guy at my local dealer said I can bring him the oil and filter and only get charged 16.xx bucks for the labor of changing my oil. I would love to here all of your comments. :shades:
Will the diesel engine Audi be available in the US ?
Thanks,
George
They said "On its way to the U.S. soon" in the title of the article.
Fuel Additives - I saw you answered another post where you recommended adding PowerService Diesel Kleen. I went to WalMart but they did not have Diesel Kleen. They did have another PowerService brand fuel additive called "Diesel Fuel Supplement + Cetane Boost". Seems like this product is geared more for "winter" use than the all year round use of "Diesel Kleen". At this point I have been to WalMart, AutoZone & a local parts store and cannot find "Diesel Kleen". What do you recommend I do? PowerService web site does say you can use "Supplement" year round. What are your thoughts?
Motor Oil - I found Castrol Syntec 5w-40 in Auto Zone. Now the back of the bottle says "505.00" not "505.01". Also, the back of the bottle does say "meets specifications of Volkswagen Diesel TDI Engines." Do you think this is the same oil or does it have to be 505.01. Like I pointed out, this is 505.00.
as for motor oil, if it says 505.00 it's the wrong oil for your PD TDI .
it has to say 505.01. i think you won't find any at any retailers yet.
the 2003s & earlier can use 505.00 though.
the 505.01 is $7 or $7.50 per gallon at the local volksy dealer. expensive but it's a must-have - oil change is every 10k with these cars so that's reasonable... .
The quality of WV products is very hi, don`t worry about that
The timing belt is very important, but you must change the belt at 90000 kilometers and 120000 kilometers if the engine is 2.5 TDI or 3.0 TDI
You must use only this oil - 505.01 and 506.01 , expensive but that is it. No alternative.
This engines are very powerfull but they used only 6-7 liter diesel/100 km
There is no way to have any problem in the winter with this car
The price is perfect , the same car cost in Europe $ 40000