[Vwdiesel] OT: diesel hatchback suggestions ??

[Maynard Southard]

Teach her to drive a stick. It's not brain surgery and opens up her options
tremendously.

I've put all 269k miles on my 2000 Golf GLS TDI. Stock vehicle. Clutch and
tranny will probably outlast the engine. I'm still getting 50+ mpg and no
oil added between 10k-mile oil changes (synthetic). Easy to maneuver in the
city and into tight parking spots.

Very versatile. The back hatch area has lots of room and is covered by a
sturdy 'shelf' that removes easily. The back seat is split 40/60. You can
fold either part down flat (or both) or remove them completely with just a
screwdriver. Loads of room ... easy to underestimate the volume. You'd be
amazed at how much stuff you can stuff in there.

Rides well. Much quieter than earlier generation VW diesels.

Oil & Filter changes are easy to do, even for beginners. Timing belt changes
or more complex, but only needed every 80k miles on the 5-speeds. Glow plugs
and relays have been issues for some people, but are easily diagnosed and
remedied. Everything else is fairly routine maintenance.

There are a lot more used Golf TDI's available than used Jetta TDI Wagons or
Passat TDI Wagons. Those wagons command pretty high prices. The Golf TDI's
are not cheap, but surely cheaper than those vehicles.

Just my humble opinions.

Maynard
'00 Golf GLS TDI
'86 DoubleCab Diesel
'82 Vanagon GL Diesel
'80 Rabbit P/U Diesel
'02 Eurovan ... not diesel :-(


> -----Original Message-----
> hey all
> my buddy and his girl are buying a car
> they are both musicians, used to living in the city - he's 
> not used to driving, she even less so they want easy loading 
> for gear + high fuel economy I suggested a recent VW Golf TDi 
> (automatic - she doesn't drive stick)
> 
> any problems with those? typical issues/weaknesses? anything 
> else they should be looking at?
> thanks for any input
> sorry for the OT
> 
> --
> Rolf in MA