Ich bin ein Mainstreamer Volkswagen tried building cars in the U.S. once before, and it didn't end well for the Rabbits assembled in Westmoreland, PA. "In Vietnam, 'Westmoreland' was a synonym for boundless optimisim in the face of raw facts. The same principle applies here," said my friend Mike, explaining why his Rabbits at the time were imported from Das Vaterland. The real problem with American-made VWs wasn't Pennsylvania or a self-deluding General, Mike continued, but "mushbucket suspensions, chintzy build quality, frou-frou styling compromises," all resulting in a sub-par ... Read More

Vital Stats

Engine:: 2.5L I5
Power:: 170 HP / 177 LB-FT
Transmission:: 6-Speed Auto
MSRP:: $30,665 as tested

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First Drive: 2013 Volkswagen CC 1326992280

Sleek Four-Door Coupe Noses Upmarket When European deliveries of the then new Volkswagen Passat CC started back in late 2007, even in its home market, the know-it-alls received it with skepticism. There didn't seem to be any burning need for a sexed-up four-door based on a Passat chassis. Was there an audience large enough for a Mercedes-Benz ...
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First Drive: 2012 Volkswagen Passat 1306252620

Americanized Sedan Shows Its German Roots The 2012 Volkswagen Passat is facing a kind of perfect storm of skepticism from long-time fans of the brand. Volkswagen has wasted no chance to tell the world that the company's newest sedan will be custom-tailored to the American market, with styling and packaging tweaks designed to set the vehicle apart from ...