 My 2005 Volkswagen Passat GLS TDI is a high quality vehicle with the bonus of having very good mileage for a vehicle of its size. It has excellent handling. I would prefer a standard transmission, but the automatic is very flexible. The only thing I would change are the sunvisors, they do not provide enough side coverage.  I have averaged 34 mpg in the first 9,000 miles in suburban driving and up to a whopping 41 mpg on long trips. 