Aman's 2013 Focus ST
07-03-2018, 09:09 PM
#1
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Aman's 2013 Focus ST
So I got this instead:
It's a 2014 Passat TSI. 5-speed manual. 70k miles, and I paid $12k CDN.
I did an oil change on the 6 the other week and the rust looked like it was getting out of control. The body was in great shape but I didn't want to be replacing subframes in the forseeable future. This is attempt two at comfortable, reliable transportation for the next several years. Wish me luck.
TSI means the newer 1.8T motor instead of the 2.5. I test drove two Passats, and while peak power was the same between the two motors, this has more torque and is supposed to get better fuel economy. It was also easier to drive. The 2.5 is surprisingly powerful on on-ramps, but this motor has usable torque where I've never had it.
APR Stage 2 supposedly brings 300+ lb.ft at the crank.
It's about as different a driving experience from the 6 as you can get while staying in the same class. The Mazda had a closer-ratio, shorter shifting 6 speed and really liked being above 2500 rpm. This has taller, wider spaced gears with a longer throw shifter, and relies a little more on torque to keep the car moving. I think I prefer it for putzing around the city or highway. The Mazda was actually fun but it was always engaging. Sometimes it's nice to pass cars without having to put down your coffee and downshift and rev match and throttle it then get back in gear and pick up the coffee again. You know?
The Mazda had a ton of features, so this isn't a huge jump in content. I have leather, sunroof, 18s, decent audio. This also has a backup camera.
I'm trying to get hill assist disabled before I admit it's sometimes kinda handy. Suspension and a short throw shifter will happen at some point, and maybe a tune. Then it's back to replenishing the M3 fund.
I'm happy!
It's a 2014 Passat TSI. 5-speed manual. 70k miles, and I paid $12k CDN.
I did an oil change on the 6 the other week and the rust looked like it was getting out of control. The body was in great shape but I didn't want to be replacing subframes in the forseeable future. This is attempt two at comfortable, reliable transportation for the next several years. Wish me luck.
TSI means the newer 1.8T motor instead of the 2.5. I test drove two Passats, and while peak power was the same between the two motors, this has more torque and is supposed to get better fuel economy. It was also easier to drive. The 2.5 is surprisingly powerful on on-ramps, but this motor has usable torque where I've never had it.
APR Stage 2 supposedly brings 300+ lb.ft at the crank.
It's about as different a driving experience from the 6 as you can get while staying in the same class. The Mazda had a closer-ratio, shorter shifting 6 speed and really liked being above 2500 rpm. This has taller, wider spaced gears with a longer throw shifter, and relies a little more on torque to keep the car moving. I think I prefer it for putzing around the city or highway. The Mazda was actually fun but it was always engaging. Sometimes it's nice to pass cars without having to put down your coffee and downshift and rev match and throttle it then get back in gear and pick up the coffee again. You know?
The Mazda had a ton of features, so this isn't a huge jump in content. I have leather, sunroof, 18s, decent audio. This also has a backup camera.
I'm trying to get hill assist disabled before I admit it's sometimes kinda handy. Suspension and a short throw shifter will happen at some point, and maybe a tune. Then it's back to replenishing the M3 fund.
I'm happy!
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04-19-2021, 03:41 PM
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New tire day today. Yokohama Advan Apex, in 245/40/18 (factory is 235). I'm in a good mood seeing the snowflakes back on. I do like these wheels:
Things are going pretty smooth over here, so I'm enjoying that while it lasts. I fixed the horns once it started to warm up last month. Going to do a coolant flush and brake bleed sometime soon. I'm hopeful for another summer of more time driving than wrenching.
07-03-2018, 09:16 PM
#2
Team Owner
Wait... what happened with the 6?
07-03-2018, 11:30 PM
#3
Punk Rocker
Congrats to you for your new car and I hope you enjoy the hell out of it!
I personally have never really liked VW's all that much. I've driven a GTi and a CC and they are immensely rewarding driver's cars, no doubt. But I can't ever seem to be able to get around their styling, especially on the inside (the CC is exempt because I actually find that car to be very attractive on the outside, but then the interior really turned me off on that car as well) and their infotainment systems are always laughably bad. If all I cared about was German driving dynamics and feel, I'd be a VW fan for sure, but there is just much more that factors into a car purchase for me than how it drives (perhaps because I'm getting old and no longer prioritize performance and feel as highly as I used to).
All that said, the Passat is a very good car and the only opinion that really matters is yours so don't take my post as me crapping on your new car; that is definitely not my intent. Just putting in my 2 cents with regard to VW's in general, which most posters around here disagree with for sure!
I personally have never really liked VW's all that much. I've driven a GTi and a CC and they are immensely rewarding driver's cars, no doubt. But I can't ever seem to be able to get around their styling, especially on the inside (the CC is exempt because I actually find that car to be very attractive on the outside, but then the interior really turned me off on that car as well) and their infotainment systems are always laughably bad. If all I cared about was German driving dynamics and feel, I'd be a VW fan for sure, but there is just much more that factors into a car purchase for me than how it drives (perhaps because I'm getting old and no longer prioritize performance and feel as highly as I used to).
All that said, the Passat is a very good car and the only opinion that really matters is yours so don't take my post as me crapping on your new car; that is definitely not my intent. Just putting in my 2 cents with regard to VW's in general, which most posters around here disagree with for sure!
07-05-2018, 07:42 AM
#7
Azine Jabroni
Congrats on a beautiful car!
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07-05-2018, 09:07 AM
#8
Team Owner
07-05-2018, 09:37 AM
#9
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Regional Coordinator (Southeast)
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Congrats!
Now time for that Stage2
Now time for that Stage2
07-06-2018, 10:33 AM
#10
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I traded in the 6. Too rusty underneath. Hopefully better luck with a VW. 
Thanks! Styling is definitely subjective. I think this car looks classy, if not a standout. And that's fine with me. Operating it definitely feels different than a similar Honda, for example. Comparable Accords were about $5k more, otherwise they'd have gotten a closer look. My brother has a same-year Accord anyway.
Thanks! My longest drive has been an hour so far and no complaints. I find it easy to grt in and out of, and still somewhat supportive.
Going about 3 hours out of town tomorrow. Will update on if it feels any different.
thank you!
Man I've been reading too much on tunes and downpipes. Could be interesting!
Congrats to you for your new car and I hope you enjoy the hell out of it!
I personally have never really liked VW's all that much. I've driven a GTi and a CC and they are immensely rewarding driver's cars, no doubt. But I can't ever seem to be able to get around their styling, especially on the inside (the CC is exempt because I actually find that car to be very attractive on the outside, but then the interior really turned me off on that car as well) and their infotainment systems are always laughably bad. If all I cared about was German driving dynamics and feel, I'd be a VW fan for sure, but there is just much more that factors into a car purchase for me than how it drives (perhaps because I'm getting old and no longer prioritize performance and feel as highly as I used to).
All that said, the Passat is a very good car and the only opinion that really matters is yours so don't take my post as me crapping on your new car; that is definitely not my intent. Just putting in my 2 cents with regard to VW's in general, which most posters around here disagree with for sure!
I personally have never really liked VW's all that much. I've driven a GTi and a CC and they are immensely rewarding driver's cars, no doubt. But I can't ever seem to be able to get around their styling, especially on the inside (the CC is exempt because I actually find that car to be very attractive on the outside, but then the interior really turned me off on that car as well) and their infotainment systems are always laughably bad. If all I cared about was German driving dynamics and feel, I'd be a VW fan for sure, but there is just much more that factors into a car purchase for me than how it drives (perhaps because I'm getting old and no longer prioritize performance and feel as highly as I used to).
All that said, the Passat is a very good car and the only opinion that really matters is yours so don't take my post as me crapping on your new car; that is definitely not my intent. Just putting in my 2 cents with regard to VW's in general, which most posters around here disagree with for sure!
Going about 3 hours out of town tomorrow. Will update on if it feels any different.
thank you!Man I've been reading too much on tunes and downpipes. Could be interesting!
07-06-2018, 11:11 AM
#11
Moderator
Like I said in the other thread. I had one for a rental, with an auto-box, & had no comfort issues on a 7 hour round trip.
07-06-2018, 02:25 PM
#12
In the Mid-South meow
iTrader: (2)
Congrats dude! I personally like VW styling (and Stage II tunes). All the best luck with it!
07-08-2018, 07:09 PM
#13
Moderator
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Manual FTW!
07-08-2018, 09:06 PM
#14
Ex-OEM King
Congrats! Welcome to the VW club!
07-08-2018, 11:41 PM
#15
Senior Moderator
Congrats!
07-10-2018, 01:59 PM
#17
Team Owner
You caught up very quickly from your Accord days.... You didn't look for any TDIs?
07-10-2018, 02:42 PM
#18
I some about the bigger 2.0 but very similar engine...
if you encounter any maintenance you're going to tackle yourself, holler at your boy as I had a crash course in getting a nearly 192K 2.0t German car to be check engine light free...
I can't say enough about how well the car is geared and where the torque comes on for around town driving...keep it out of boost and you'll see 25mpg, maybe more (I have a heavy foot)...
I had a loud catalytic and had it straight piped there and it really woke up the exhaust and the turbo...
I recently lowered and am in love with the damn thing now...
What I'm trying to say is...
Congrats, Aman. You are a reasonable and patient man and it will pay off in the long run. I love this decision and wish you great luck with it.
if you encounter any maintenance you're going to tackle yourself, holler at your boy as I had a crash course in getting a nearly 192K 2.0t German car to be check engine light free...
I can't say enough about how well the car is geared and where the torque comes on for around town driving...keep it out of boost and you'll see 25mpg, maybe more (I have a heavy foot)...
I had a loud catalytic and had it straight piped there and it really woke up the exhaust and the turbo...
I recently lowered and am in love with the damn thing now...
What I'm trying to say is...
Congrats, Aman. You are a reasonable and patient man and it will pay off in the long run. I love this decision and wish you great luck with it.
07-11-2018, 10:11 AM
#19
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
Congrats!!! MT is the way to go!
07-11-2018, 09:43 PM
#20
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Thanks guys. Glad you support it!
First longer trip is in the books. 300 miles round trip visiting my friend's farm last week, nice and comfortable the whole trip. No issues with the seats
If I had one gripe, it would be the suspension is a little underdamped for highway driving. But it's otherwise great. The seats are easy to get in and out of and still have some bolstering. More rear visibility makes checking blind spots easier.
We're at 450 miles on this tank with over 1/4 left remaining
. That's the drive back last weekend and my regular during the week driving (i.e. not 100% highway). Not yet sure what that is in MPG, but it's blowing the Mazda 6 out of the water. I never saw more than 26 MPG out of that car. 24 MPG was typical in my use. Part of the high mileage might be because of the tire pressure warning light I got on the drive back. Pulled off the highway and the lowest tire was at 45 psi . Highest was 52 psi I think. I know you're supposed to measure tire pressure cold but that still sounds high. Anybody have a recommended tire pressure gauge? I can't trust what's in auto parts stores.
I didn't look at TDIs. They're cool, but diesels aren't for me. I don't like the low redlines nor the premium associated with them.
This is my first turbocharged car, and this identical motor is in the Jetta so there's plenty of aftermarket if I wanted to go that route. I think I'm pretty set on a tune and some sort of suspension setup eventually. J I will definitely take you up on that.
First longer trip is in the books. 300 miles round trip visiting my friend's farm last week, nice and comfortable the whole trip. No issues with the seats
If I had one gripe, it would be the suspension is a little underdamped for highway driving. But it's otherwise great. The seats are easy to get in and out of and still have some bolstering. More rear visibility makes checking blind spots easier. We're at 450 miles on this tank with over 1/4 left remaining
. That's the drive back last weekend and my regular during the week driving (i.e. not 100% highway). Not yet sure what that is in MPG, but it's blowing the Mazda 6 out of the water. I never saw more than 26 MPG out of that car. 24 MPG was typical in my use. Part of the high mileage might be because of the tire pressure warning light I got on the drive back. Pulled off the highway and the lowest tire was at 45 psi . Highest was 52 psi I think. I know you're supposed to measure tire pressure cold but that still sounds high. Anybody have a recommended tire pressure gauge? I can't trust what's in auto parts stores. I didn't look at TDIs. They're cool, but diesels aren't for me. I don't like the low redlines nor the premium associated with them.
This is my first turbocharged car, and this identical motor is in the Jetta so there's plenty of aftermarket if I wanted to go that route. I think I'm pretty set on a tune and some sort of suspension setup eventually. J I will definitely take you up on that.
07-12-2018, 07:11 AM
#22
Didn't even know newer VWs have a 1.8T now. 1.8T nevar lose
Sounds like you take a lot of long trips and chose the right car. Likewise with the transmission choice!
The newest Jetta looks like a Fusion that's trying too hard, I like yours much better.
Sounds like you take a lot of long trips and chose the right car. Likewise with the transmission choice!
The newest Jetta looks like a Fusion that's trying too hard, I like yours much better.
07-12-2018, 11:23 AM
#23
Team Owner
Thanks guys. Glad you support it!
First longer trip is in the books. 300 miles round trip visiting my friend's farm last week, nice and comfortable the whole trip. No issues with the seats If I had one gripe, it would be the suspension is a little underdamped for highway driving. But it's otherwise great. The seats are easy to get in and out of and still have some bolstering. More rear visibility makes checking blind spots easier.
We're at 450 miles on this tank with over 1/4 left remaining. That's the drive back last weekend and my regular during the week driving (i.e. not 100% highway). Not yet sure what that is in MPG, but it's blowing the Mazda 6 out of the water. I never saw more than 26 MPG out of that car. 24 MPG was typical in my use. Part of the high mileage might be because of the tire pressure warning light I got on the drive back. Pulled off the highway and the lowest tire was at 45 psi . Highest was 52 psi I think. I know you're supposed to measure tire pressure cold but that still sounds high. Anybody have a recommended tire pressure gauge? I can't trust what's in auto parts stores.
I didn't look at TDIs. They're cool, but diesels aren't for me. I don't like the low redlines nor the premium associated with them.
This is my first turbocharged car, and this identical motor is in the Jetta so there's plenty of aftermarket if I wanted to go that route. I think I'm pretty set on a tune and some sort of suspension setup eventually. J I will definitely take you up on that.
First longer trip is in the books. 300 miles round trip visiting my friend's farm last week, nice and comfortable the whole trip. No issues with the seats
If I had one gripe, it would be the suspension is a little underdamped for highway driving. But it's otherwise great. The seats are easy to get in and out of and still have some bolstering. More rear visibility makes checking blind spots easier.We're at 450 miles on this tank with over 1/4 left remaining
. That's the drive back last weekend and my regular during the week driving (i.e. not 100% highway). Not yet sure what that is in MPG, but it's blowing the Mazda 6 out of the water. I never saw more than 26 MPG out of that car. 24 MPG was typical in my use. Part of the high mileage might be because of the tire pressure warning light I got on the drive back. Pulled off the highway and the lowest tire was at 45 psi . Highest was 52 psi I think. I know you're supposed to measure tire pressure cold but that still sounds high. Anybody have a recommended tire pressure gauge? I can't trust what's in auto parts stores.I didn't look at TDIs. They're cool, but diesels aren't for me. I don't like the low redlines nor the premium associated with them.
This is my first turbocharged car, and this identical motor is in the Jetta so there's plenty of aftermarket if I wanted to go that route. I think I'm pretty set on a tune and some sort of suspension setup eventually. J I will definitely take you up on that.
Dont tell Saintor you are getting great MPG with turbo 4.... it is all fake news to him.
07-14-2018, 11:43 AM
#25
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I know someone who had this as a lease. Had the chance to drive it for a good chunk of miles. For what they sell for, it's a great car!!
Side questions, was the subframe rust really that bad on the Mazda?
Side questions, was the subframe rust really that bad on the Mazda?
07-16-2018, 10:47 PM
#28
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First tank: 35.5 MPG combined 
And it's so big!
Yeah, the rust on the 6 really was that bad. Brake and fuel lines were fine, and the body didn't actually have a speck, not even in the rear wheel wells. But the structural stuff, especially subframes, were significantly worse than even my 2001 Accord. I priced replacement subframes out of curiosity, and that made the decision really easy. It was pretty disappointing actually. I liked spending time in that car.
Might have a few trips in the coming months - I'm going to Virginia next week, then maybe Chicago, Cedar Point in Ohio, Montreal, and Windsor/Detroit a couple of times. Gonna be fun!
And it's so big!Yeah, the rust on the 6 really was that bad. Brake and fuel lines were fine, and the body didn't actually have a speck, not even in the rear wheel wells. But the structural stuff, especially subframes, were significantly worse than even my 2001 Accord. I priced replacement subframes out of curiosity, and that made the decision really easy. It was pretty disappointing actually. I liked spending time in that car.
Might have a few trips in the coming months - I'm going to Virginia next week, then maybe Chicago, Cedar Point in Ohio, Montreal, and Windsor/Detroit a couple of times. Gonna be fun!
07-16-2018, 11:51 PM
#29
Sorry I'm retarded. This actually bothered me the other day, my mom got a rental and I was like, this is a Jetta... something isn't right. You got a Passat, oops 
Either way my post still stands, I always liked these
Either way my post still stands, I always liked these
07-18-2018, 09:42 PM
#34
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Phil, I will definitely give you a shout!
Spark plugs were apparently scheduled to be replaced 10k miles ago. I'm gonna guess they haven't been done yet. Those and maybe interior LEDs will be the first purchases for this car in the next few weeks.
The A/C compressor is also a little bit noisy... there's a TSB out that details the replacement of the compressor's regulator valve. I'm trying to get my hands on the instructional PDF so that can get done ASAP. I spent a pretty penny replacing the A/C evaporator in the 6 about a month before selling it. Really don't want replace expensive A/C components again.
Also, avatar updated.
Spark plugs were apparently scheduled to be replaced 10k miles ago. I'm gonna guess they haven't been done yet. Those and maybe interior LEDs will be the first purchases for this car in the next few weeks.
The A/C compressor is also a little bit noisy... there's a TSB out that details the replacement of the compressor's regulator valve. I'm trying to get my hands on the instructional PDF so that can get done ASAP. I spent a pretty penny replacing the A/C evaporator in the 6 about a month before selling it. Really don't want replace expensive A/C components again.
Also, avatar updated.
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07-26-2019, 11:47 AM
#36
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Update, sort of. It's been a year and a month-ish since purchase:
Car is doing great. It's been dead-nuts reliable, good on gas, a comfortable place to be, and it cleans up well. Not a while lot has changed - I just drive it around and stuff.
The most exciting thing that's happened is probably installing the Eibach springs a few months back. The car was way too soft on the highway and would take a long time to settle after hitting bumps. The springs have helped with that. It is noticeably underdamped now, but I consider the ride an improvement over stock. Install was super easy - the most difficult part by far was locating the right tools. Needed a strut spreader bit and a set of triple squares. Was easy peasy after that. Also added 4 15mm spacers and extended lug bolts. I like how it looks. The rear will rub a bit if loaded down with people and cargo, but that's rare.
Which sort of brings me to my "dilemma" if you want to call it that. I don't really feel like the target demographic for this car. A big trunk and backseat is great but is pretty low on my priority list. I'm a single dude. I don't need a car to carry anything more than myself and my junk. I test drove a GTI and 350Z last week, and those cars were a blast - even the FWD GTI behaved differently enough to make me think "this is just a different league". And they would probably suit my needs just fine for the time being. I should have just gotten a GTI in the first place.
So the Passat is for sale. Hopefully I can time things right to jump into what I want. Worst case scenario is I don't get what I want for the Passat and just keep it for a while longer. Best case scenario is I get something actively enjoyable to drive, and hopefully that becomes my long-term keeper.
Car is doing great. It's been dead-nuts reliable, good on gas, a comfortable place to be, and it cleans up well. Not a while lot has changed - I just drive it around and stuff.
The most exciting thing that's happened is probably installing the Eibach springs a few months back. The car was way too soft on the highway and would take a long time to settle after hitting bumps. The springs have helped with that. It is noticeably underdamped now, but I consider the ride an improvement over stock. Install was super easy - the most difficult part by far was locating the right tools. Needed a strut spreader bit and a set of triple squares. Was easy peasy after that. Also added 4 15mm spacers and extended lug bolts. I like how it looks. The rear will rub a bit if loaded down with people and cargo, but that's rare.
Which sort of brings me to my "dilemma" if you want to call it that. I don't really feel like the target demographic for this car. A big trunk and backseat is great but is pretty low on my priority list. I'm a single dude. I don't need a car to carry anything more than myself and my junk. I test drove a GTI and 350Z last week, and those cars were a blast - even the FWD GTI behaved differently enough to make me think "this is just a different league". And they would probably suit my needs just fine for the time being. I should have just gotten a GTI in the first place.
So the Passat is for sale. Hopefully I can time things right to jump into what I want. Worst case scenario is I don't get what I want for the Passat and just keep it for a while longer. Best case scenario is I get something actively enjoyable to drive, and hopefully that becomes my long-term keeper.
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07-26-2019, 11:55 AM
#37
Team Owner
I came in expecting to see a new car. I was pretty disappointed until i read you are getting a new car
Nothing wrong with the Passat, but nothing is right with it either. It is just an appliance.
350Z/370Z is extremely thirsty. Just make sure you are ready for that if you decided to go that route. G35/G37 is a better alternative for me personally. 350Z is just too....heavy and spartan...
GTI is a good choice.... and i would also recommend S2000... it is one of those cars i would recommend EVERYONE to own it at least once in their life time... I DD it for 6 years combined, so it is do-able.
Nothing wrong with the Passat, but nothing is right with it either. It is just an appliance.
350Z/370Z is extremely thirsty. Just make sure you are ready for that if you decided to go that route. G35/G37 is a better alternative for me personally. 350Z is just too....heavy and spartan...
GTI is a good choice.... and i would also recommend S2000... it is one of those cars i would recommend EVERYONE to own it at least once in their life time... I DD it for 6 years combined, so it is do-able.
07-26-2019, 12:13 PM
#38
Moderator
GTI is a winner for sure. Best of luck unloading the Passat.
07-26-2019, 12:57 PM
#40
Ex-OEM King
US market Passat isn't on MQB is it? If no, that explains why the GTI feels so much better. Good luck in your search!