Would you buy VW again?

[Amalgam]

But does the dash indicate when a regen process is underway?

No.

There is slight loss in power and a slightly higher idle speed.

I notice it most when you turn the engine off in the middle of a regen and the radiator fan continues to run on at high speed. It was disconcerting at first. It signals to me that it is time for a run up the freeway at 100+ km/h for about 30mins to complete the active / passive regen.

[kleung]

No.

Correct - The warning light should only illuminate when the DPF has gotten beyond its normal ability to regenerate itself.

There is slight loss in power and a slightly higher idle speed.

I didn't even notice it happening in the loaner. I only realised when I got out of the car at the dealership and heard the cooling fan going full wellie after I walked away from the car.

[Jath]

Not in the CC, I just get home sometimes after a commute and the DPF clean process is underway, I assume its the same for the B7 as well (could be wrong).
BTW 125tdi CC with the wet 6speed, just on 110K with a few minor issues in its lifetime (battery, cracked boot lid which was common on the CC), and yes, would buy VW again.
Looking at the technology updates in the B8 has perked my interest.

[booba]

Just be wary on the B8, Vw won't give us half of the cool stuff that you can get in eu.

[Steve]

I've had an R36 for six years since new. I'd only buy a VW again if they make something similar in the future.

Not that there's anything wrong with the car - it's been great - but I don't want a performance downgrade.

[singlespeed]

No. My 2013 TDI is awesome, but I can't say I'd stay with VW. I talked my Mrs out of a Lexus, while she does enjoy the Diesel engine I think she misses her old Lexus still. If there was a no DSG no DPF option in the future, then maybe.

[kleung]

Just be wary on the B8, Vw won't give us half of the cool stuff that you can get in eu.

Nothing new there...Australian B6/B7 Passats missed out on lots of stuff that's available on Euro Passats - rear sunshade, (until recently) KESSY, manual transmission, DAB/DAB+, colour MFD, telephone dial pad (in place of one of the pop-out trays below the centre vents)...

[dopey]

No. My 2013 TDI is awesome, but I can't say I'd stay with VW. I talked my Mrs out of a Lexus, while she does enjoy the Diesel engine I think she misses her old Lexus still. If there was a no DSG no DPF option in the future, then maybe.

Lexus customer service and support is still amongst the best out there at the moment. VW should take lessons from them.

[johnboi]

personally I would never buy one out of warranty....ever. I am going to off load my passat and go back to a commodore

[Bob51]

Although not VW badged I've had two Skoda Octavia 103TDIs, first one leased for 53k the second owned and now at 33k. Both 6 speed manual. Only issue was on the first one where the air con was slow to start. Neither have used any oil. Daily trip to work is 13k/20 min and DPF has not caused any problem so far. You can tell when the regen cycle is happening as the idle speed is slightly higher and if I notice this on a trip home I take a long way home to let the cycle complete. A 5km commute may be a problem as the regen cycle takes about 15 mins and may never complete satisfactorily.

Based on my experience so far I would buy again but only if I can get a manual - I don't like any autos.