Executive 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology DSG 140 4dr Auto Estate

Looks good however let down by the Sachs suspension

Positive aspects of my Passat 2.0 TDI Sport, DSG Estate. After 14,000 miles (B7)
1. Comfortable and supportive ‘sport’ seats and darkened glass for passengers.
2. Sound proofing effective giving a hushed environment
3. Large boot and door pockets. Full size spare wheel. Strong hinges
4. Sat nav works pretty well
5. External appearance
6. Engine is smooth and has enough power
7. Auto gear box is quick to respond with paddles
8. Auto dimming mirrors
9. Headlamps are very effective and the rears are bright enough. Enough interior lights
10. Fuel efficient 46.3 average
11. Power steering makes it easier to drive long distances (compared to my old 2005 A6). Nicely weighted at motorway speed.
12. Handling is good around the corners, better than my old A6 any way
Negative aspects and cost of resolving those
1. DSG gear box does not work as I would like - £100 oil & filter change
2. Tyres are too low profile (45) giving a firm ride that transmits all the bumps into the seat. Wide too
3. Rear coil springs are inadequate for the application, worn out after 4 years, sink down to the top of the tyre with very little weight. Gas shocks/dampers replaced at 43k £500, coil springs will cost another £500 to replace (Prices are for OEM parts and independent VAG trained mechanic to fit)
4. VW did not fit parking sensors on this first batch of facelift B7 (they did on the 2012 later versions) £200
5. Thin paint - £150 part re spray/touch-up Aug 14
6. Rain ‘gutters’ on the roof are too shallow, rain drips into the cabin!
7. Some internal cheap black plastic parts around central console creak that don’t fit properly, esp considering car is still under warranty, only 2 ½ years old.
8. Chrome trim on bumpers coming loose. VW replaced some of them before I purchased in Dec 13
9. Speakers are cheap and sound a bit irritating after a while– upgrade the front four speakers and some sound proofing s £300-600
10. Front passenger foot well has wheel arch intruding

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