What are people's experiences with the OEM mudflaps Vs after market ones on a Passat Wagon?

Is either worth having to limit stone damage? I have seen a few comments that they tend to drag on the ground if the car has a full complement of passengers or a heavy load. My dealer seemed to be unimpressed by them and said to save my money, which was rather honest of him....

I take it the 125TDI doesn't have self-levelling suspension.....

Thanks
John - in Sunny Carnarvon WA