What's the verdict on the Chattanooga-built Passat?

[mhjett]

The taillights mainly. Too big, too plain, and their shape doesn't flow with the rest of the vehicle: \__/

A modernization of the B4 design would be better IMO.

[img]B4passatbutt.jpg[/img]

Too big, too plain, and you suggest giant rectangles as an improvement?

lololol

[2.0T_Convert]

TDI is the only Passat worth buying in the US. Unless of course you really just want the true spiritual heir to the Impala legacy.

[Saintor]

TDI is the only Passat worth buying in the US. Unless of course you really just want the true spiritual heir to the Impala legacy.

Nonsense.

The Passat still drives like no Impala.

[TOMPASS]

The taillights mainly. Too big, too plain, and their shape doesn't flow with the rest of the vehicle: \__/

A modernization of the B4 design would be better IMO.

The taillights are my least favorite part of the B7 as well. My solution would be to eliminate the upper "triangular" part of the light so that the lower of the two side creases (the one that aligns with the license plate recess) becomes the upper edge of the light. Then the Passat script could be installed horizontally instead of on the upward angle, resolving my other pet peeve of the script looking like it was installed crooked by following the trunk lip angle.

[FissionMailed]

The taillights mainly. Too big, too plain, and their shape doesn't flow with the rest of the vehicle: \__/

A modernization of the B4 design would be better IMO.

If I take this post seriously, and I begin laughing, I might actually die. Holy cow.

[Martinus]

These have been on the road for a while, how did VW do? Are the American-made Passats about the same quality as the VW's made in other plants, or is there a noticeable difference?

A VR6 Passat is on my short list (along with a Charger / 300 V6), so I'm looking for feedback on these if anybody has any seat time in one. But I'm not interested in buying a US-built VW if it's Westmoreland all over again.

Rule #1 ?

[vrsexxy_GTI]

The taillights mainly. Too big, too plain, and their shape doesn't flow with the rest of the vehicle: \__/

A modernization of the B4 design would be better IMO.

[dmorrow]

The taillights mainly. Too big, too plain, and their shape doesn't flow with the rest of the vehicle: \__/

A modernization of the B4 design would be better IMO.

Seems like they got to designing the rear of this car and ran out of time. Coming up with giant rectangles then and you want the giant rectangles "modernized"?

[Farnsworth]

Reading comprehension >> most of the last few people who replied. Try this before the next time you post:

[Farnsworth]

The taillights are my least favorite part of the B7 as well. My solution would be to eliminate the upper "triangular" part of the light so that the lower of the two side creases (the one that aligns with the license plate recess) becomes the upper edge of the light. Then the Passat script could be installed horizontally instead of on the upward angle, resolving my other pet peeve of the script looking like it was installed crooked by following the trunk lip angle.

This

[horsty69]

I like the new Passat and would gladly look at one in a year or so when its time for a new car....my only real complaint about the styling is the headlight assembly....IMO it cheapens the look of the whole car....Im hoping they come out with a projector or something for MY 2013 or 2014, I know it may seem like nitpicking and it may be but it bothers me...It would also be nice to see just a few more options available...different wheels... perhaps a sport package available on the TDI and VR6 trims....hell even the camry has a faux sports package available.

[TREGinginCO]

The US-built Passat is an excellent vehicle. As mentioned in a previous post... the TDI Passat is the way to go!

[spongebob_squarepants]

OP here...

Finally drove the new Passat yesterday. There were no V6's so I drove the 2.5L SE. Very solid car that handles better than you think it well looking at the size of it. Interior is top notch and unmistakably VW. Comfy seats, good sight lines, great steering wheel.

But, as I suspected, the 2.5L, while fine around town, is lacking on the freeway. I'm sure most people might never notice or care since the car is a smokin' deal at the 2.5L's price point.

I'm planning to order a VR6 model soon, unless the GLI test drive knocks my socks off