Who's driving a VW AllTrack?

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07-10-2018, 04:35 PM
gregL

Quote:

Originally Posted by dump

Thanks for the responses. This sounds like a nice upgrade, but would be concerned about somehow voiding the warranty. But I also don't know much about tuning.

Technically VW could invoke that excuse if there was a drivetrain issue that the increased HP and torque could have caused, but a friend who works at the dealership assured me they'd interpret that liberally. In any case, I didn't want to wait out the 6 year/72k mile warranty because I want to have fun driving it now.

At any rate, I've been assured the Euro-spec gas version puts out similar numbers with the same drivetrain, and I've not had any issues with Audis running Stage 1 APR upgrades.
07-11-2018, 07:01 AM
whyturn

Quote:

Originally Posted by gregL

Technically VW could invoke that excuse if there was a drivetrain issue that the increased HP and torque could have caused, but a friend who works at the dealership assured me they'd interpret that liberally. In any case, I didn't want to wait out the 6 year/72k mile warranty because I want to have fun driving it now.

At any rate, I've been assured the Euro-spec gas version puts out similar numbers with the same drivetrain, and I've not had any issues with Audis running Stage 1 APR upgrades.

Stage one is really just a tune to get it running like it should and map fuel air mix more balanced. It’s not any mod to anything other than map and would be hard to argue it causes an issue.

Will be test driving one soon to see if all the hype is true.
07-11-2018, 12:26 PM
stuckathuntermtn

Almost $30k for a not-full-time-awd Golf. But hey, it handles better slightly better.
07-11-2018, 12:33 PM
The Tortoise

Quote:

Originally Posted by dump

Thanks for the responses. This sounds like a nice upgrade, but would be concerned about somehow voiding the warranty. But I also don't know much about tuning.

FWIW, APR provides a warranty for tuned vehicles if you want to mitigate some risk. https://www.goaprplus.com/

Quote:

The hidden back up camera is "the shit" in winter weather. After 35k, and 1 long, nasty winter, it's still crystal clear; haven't cleaned it yet.

This. It's one of those things that once you've had it you can't go back.
07-11-2018, 12:36 PM
The Tortoise

Quote:

Originally Posted by stuckathuntermtn

Almost $30k for a not-full-time-awd Golf. But hey, it handles better slightly better.

I'd argue more than "slightly".

And yeah, the Alltrack is pricey, but the regular 4-motion Golf wagon is pretty reasonably priced. Most drivers won't give a shit that it's not full time AWD.
07-11-2018, 12:42 PM
plugboots

This “full time” BS is just that. Our Golf w/ Haldex is seamless in its implementation. Yes, way more than slightly. I drive my mil’s Outback, my buddy’s golf wagon, and our Golf R among others I’ve rented and been in, and there’s no comparison.

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07-11-2018, 01:12 PM
tango uniform

Quote:

Originally Posted by stuckathuntermtn

Almost $30k for a not-full-time-awd Golf. But hey, it handles better slightly better.

My original claim was " you'll be hard pressed to find a better equipped BASE model, with a better warranty".

In my opinion, the base model handling is comparable, or better than the WRX.

Plus, they're steeply discounted for various reasons; some trivial, some not.

All that being the case, the answer to your question is yes my friend.

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07-11-2018, 01:13 PM
Flexon Phil

We have over 30K on our 2017. So far so good. In the snow, it is ome of the best cars I have ever owned.
07-20-2018, 12:03 PM
alpinevibes

1 Attachment(s)

Quote:

Originally Posted by plugboots

This was/is my experience coming from Subaru to German. Folks need to go drive one. You really have to give no fucks about any driving dynamics at all to pick a Subaru over a VW in any comparison test.

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This was one of the main factors that led us to the Alltrack after three Subarus: enjoyable to drive and spend time in. The SE with the sunroof and stereo has made me happy.

We're at 7700mi after 9mo on our '17 6MT; no issues, still love it. I've been very tempted by the APR Plus and going from 170hp to 234hp and 199lb/ft to 273lb/ft WITH a warranty. Ridiculous for $999, but not really in the budget for now.

gregL - have you noticed any MPG differences since Stage 1? Did you upgrade the clutch bleeder block? https://www.ecstuning.com/b-ecs-part...001284ecs01kt/

I installed the 2" hitch a few months ago for the RockyMounts Splitrail hitch rack. Took it in last month and got the tint done. Really dig the look with the tint; makes it a little more streamlined:

Attachment 241952

Just got back from Yurp where we oggled Passat Alltracks, Passat R's and lovely TDI Golf Alltracks. Same as it ever was...
07-21-2018, 10:05 AM
gregL

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dr. Scientist

gregL - have you noticed any MPG differences since Stage 1? Did you upgrade the clutch bleeder block? https://www.ecstuning.com/b-ecs-part...001284ecs01kt/

Hmmm. APR Stage 1 upgrade is $599 at Achtuning in Redmond. Almost worth a drive back to Seattle to have it done (takes about an hour) and ski a volcano or two?

I had the car chipped pretty much right away, so I can't really compare mileage, but my overall is hovering around 26mpg and freeway seems to be about 30 so far. The extra torque makes driving in 6th gear, even uphill, viable. No clutch upgrade yet.
07-22-2018, 07:48 AM
char_

Any thoughts on this cars cousin the sportwagen? Obviously sacrifice clearance and AWD, but can get a used 16-17 with 20k miles for $16-17k versus a outback with 60-90k miles in the same price range.

JD power says these are as reliable or better than an Outback.

Just found a head gasket leak on our 08 Outback at 180,000 miles so are looking for a replacement.
07-22-2018, 08:39 AM
tango uniform

The ground clearance difference between the two is only an inch or so. Due to that, and tire profile, I think the sportwagen handling is tighter; the alltrack is still fun though. FWD, with the right winter tires, will easily keep up with any AWD in the snow, so I don't consider that a make or break issue.

Note: the alltrack rear defrost is a joke! That really pisses me off.

The 2016 and up outback is cavernous and way more SUVsh in ride and handling. They've come a long way since the 90s, but I still find them uncomfortable, and tin like. Having said that though, people love them, and I can see why. The subaru cvt works good for local driving, but it's noisy. The winter package system functions better than the base VW. Heated rear seats, and everything on a timer is cool. The ground clearance and snow tires makes them almost unstoppable in the snow. Subaru's pricing is up there; they're not cheap anymore.

In my opinion, if you're driving less than 30min regularly, with weekend adventures. A good deal on a newer outback would be perfect.
If you're commuting, and care about ride, handling and VW engineering coolness. The sportwagen is awesome.
07-22-2018, 11:28 AM
tango uniform

30 minutes or less, with weekend adventures = Subaru outback.

More than 30 commute, resort skiing, trail head parking lots = VW

Of course, this is just my opinion, based on my use. Everyone has their own criteria.
07-22-2018, 11:53 AM
char_

This would be grocery getter, commuter with kids. Outback has been fine and would be fine again, but the math doesn't seem to pencil.
07-22-2018, 12:52 PM
tango uniform

Quote:

Originally Posted by char_

This would be grocery getter, commuter with kids. Outback has been fine and would be fine again, but the math doesn't seem to pencil.

There's always the math. It was a huge factor for me. My neighbor's folks were down sizing to one car, and selling a 2017 outback limited with 11k. They offered me first crack at it for trade-in value. The brand new 2017 alltrack S, with all current buying incentives was still 4k cheaper.

The math rides over all other criteria. That being the case, you won't be disappointed with the VW.
07-22-2018, 12:57 PM
tango uniform

What motor is in the sport?wagen
07-22-2018, 01:01 PM
whyturn

Quote:

Originally Posted by tango uniform

What motor is in the sport?wagen

Same motor as allttrack the 1.8 L turbo. Sport wagon does come in AWD version. It is gnd clearances and feature differences
07-22-2018, 01:31 PM
tango uniform

Arguably the Euro version of the small block Chevy; bullet proof.

I also like the 2.5 5 cyl.
07-22-2018, 07:24 PM
alpinevibes

Quote:

Originally Posted by tango uniform

There's always the math. It was a huge factor for me. My neighbor's folks were down sizing to one car, and selling a 2017 outback limited with 11k. They offered me first crack at it for trade-in value. The brand new 2017 alltrack S, with all current buying incentives was still 4k cheaper.

The math rides over all other criteria. That being the case, you won't be disappointed with the VW.

We went to both VW and Subaru dealers on the last day of the month in Fall, right before new models arrived. We walked away with $5000 off the SE and 0% for 60mo, and an extended warranty from VW. Subaru threw no bones on an Outback and to get a similar spec list as the SEL would have been $4-5k more.
07-23-2018, 07:43 AM
wolfelot

Who's driving a VW AllTrack?

Quote:

Originally Posted by gregL

Pretty sharp handling and decent performance straight off the lot, I did a Stage 1 APR upgrade on it for $599 and it's now about 25% faster. I don't think the bigger turbo is necessary for my driving.

. .

What did this do to mpgs? What did it do to engine/exhaust noise? Why doesn’t VW just sell them stock with this performance enhancement?

Intrigued.
07-23-2018, 09:49 AM
gregL

Quote:

Originally Posted by wolfelot

What did this do to mpgs? What did it do to engine/exhaust noise? Why doesn’t VW just sell them stock with this performance enhancement?

Unless you drive faster all the time, I think the MPG stays about the same. Claimed stock MPG is 26/30 and that's pretty much what I'm getting now (did the chip upgrade @ 300 miles). Not sure why they don't just sell them this way in the first place, but my guess is emissions.
07-23-2018, 10:09 AM
gregL

PS Engine/exhaust noise is the same.
07-23-2018, 09:17 PM
Duffman

Quote:

Originally Posted by plugboots

This was/is my experience coming from Subaru to German. Folks need to go drive one. You really have to give no fucks about any driving dynamics at all to pick a Subaru over a VW in any comparison test.

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Depends on the Subi. My Legacy GT while not nearly as smooth , was relatively comparable to the A4 I replaced it with . On the other hand, my wife's Crosstrek rides like the old rickety go cart/ truck hybrid that it basically is.

Now when talking interiors, the VAG group interiors are night and day better than the Subies.

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07-23-2018, 09:25 PM
Duffman

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dr. Scientist

Just got back from Yurp where we oggled Passat Alltracks, Passat R's and lovely TDI Golf Alltracks. Same as it ever was...

When I moved on from my LGT, I wanted a Golf R Sportwagon so damn bad, since the reg Golf R was just too small and I loved test driving it. Can't have that here so how about the newer platform A4 Avant instead? Strike 2. Euros get all the cool wagons, we get stupid crossovers [emoji31]

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07-23-2018, 10:02 PM
bodywhomper

Who's driving a VW AllTrack?

This may be a lame question because of ignorance having never owned a new or nearly new car, but how do peeps in the sticks deal mechanics for the VWs? There’s one known good shop for newer euro cars in my area, with another about 20 miles away, and the closest dealer being 50 miles away. For subi, Honda, and Toyota’s, there are many reputable mechanics in my area.
07-23-2018, 10:08 PM
plugboots

Quote:

Originally Posted by Duffman

Depends on the Subi. My Legacy GT while not nearly as smooth , was relatively comparable to the A4 I replaced it with . On the other hand, my wife's Crosstrek rides like the old rickety go cart/ truck hybrid that it basically is.

Now when talking interiors, the VAG group interiors are night and day better than the Subies.

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Yeah, that’s prolly about right, but maybe you should be comparing the “GT” to the Audi “S” version to be comparable.
07-24-2018, 07:44 AM
Djongo Unchained

Quote:

Originally Posted by bodywhomper

This may be a lame question because of ignorance having never owned a new or nearly new car, but how do peeps in the sticks deal mechanics for the VWs? There’s one known good shop for newer euro cars in my area, with another about 20 miles away, and the closest dealer being 50 miles away. For subi, Honda, and Toyota’s, there are many reputable mechanics in my area.

Rule #1 for VW owners: Buy the car, then run away from the dealer.

Find a good euro mechanic or get a VCDS and wrench on it yourself.
Vw dealers are notoriously weak in the service department.

I'm on my second sportwagen in 3 years, love it. But I like to wrench on my shit so it's a match...

I prefer the vw for the nicer interior, sportier lines, waaaaay better engine - TDI, power and agility, long wheelbase.

VW warranties are great but when you get sketched just taking it in for maintenance or warranty work, it's worth less.

And I live in JH so the FWD with studded snows work plenty good. Pretty flat round here.
07-24-2018, 07:55 AM
gregL

Quote:

Originally Posted by Djongo Unchained

. . . get a VCDS and wrench on it yourself.

Yeah, the enthusiast Vag Com setup is worth having at $199, if just to program your door locks and delete error codes and such and see what the ECU says is the problem, even if you don't do the work yourself.
07-24-2018, 07:58 AM
The Tortoise

OBDEleven is a cheaper option with most of the functionality.

I changed the steering weight and throttle response on my Golf Wagon. It made a significant difference.
07-24-2018, 10:18 AM
tango uniform

Changing the steering weight, and shifting points is a feature in the driving mode option on the alltrack. Or, are you guys talking about more advanced re-programing?
07-24-2018, 11:41 AM
Djongo Unchained

Quote:

Originally Posted by tango uniform

Changing the steering weight, and shifting points is a feature in the driving mode option on the alltrack. Or, are you guys talking about more advanced re-programing?

Way more advanced if desired. VCDS is the standard for all vw diagnosis/repair. OBD11 is fine but a bit less to offer.

Google it; Ross-tech makes it.
07-25-2018, 06:59 AM
The Tortoise

Quote:

Originally Posted by tango uniform

Changing the steering weight, and shifting points is a feature in the driving mode option on the alltrack. Or, are you guys talking about more advanced re-programing?

Only for the Alltrack. The Golf Wagon doesn't have the adjustable driving settings.
11-29-2018, 02:33 PM
Bobcat Sig

Bump.

Looking at these since the wife's GTI was totaled by a high driver last month. She loved her GTI and I've long been a VW/Audi/Porsche guy. Seems like it would be a good vehicle for with snow tires and a good option for us on long ski trips.

How have they been for those that own them?
11-29-2018, 02:47 PM
tango uniform

In short; I love mine. The base model is pretty generous with features, which is a VW tradition, and is adequate for me. I have a few complaints, but nothing serious. I have an auto DSG transmission model, and am happy with it's versatility. Get to a dealer and drive one ASAP; now's the time to buy!
11-29-2018, 03:23 PM
Bobcat Sig

Quote:

Originally Posted by tango uniform

In short; I love mine. The base model is pretty generous with features, which is a VW tradition, and is adequate for me. I have a few complaints, but nothing serious. I have an auto DSG transmission model, and am happy with it's versatility. Get to a dealer and drive one ASAP; now's the time to buy!

Bueno. The requirement for the wife is heated seats and a moonroof, of which I approve. Which I think that bumps me all the way up to the SEL, no?
11-29-2018, 05:20 PM
Flexon Phil

40K on our 17 S. Love it.
11-29-2018, 05:49 PM
spotted dogs

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bobcat Sig

Bump.

Looking at these since the wife's GTI was totaled by a high driver last month. She loved her GTI and I've long been a VW/Audi/Porsche guy. Seems like it would be a good vehicle for with snow tires and a good option for us on long ski trips.

How have they been for those that own them?

We have one and it’s been exactly as advertised. Mrs Spots and Daughter drive it over literally the worst roads in Canada , the Coquihalla ( legit.... ever seen highway through hell?) every weekend to coach. Comfy, safe, efficient .... A roof box and you are ready to roll. It’s fun to drive too! I would recommend full on winter tires. All the safety systems in the world mean squat if your tires aren’t up to the task.)

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11-29-2018, 06:04 PM
gregL

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bobcat Sig

The requirement for the wife is heated seats and a moonroof, of which I approve. Which I think that bumps me all the way up to the SEL, no?

Even the "S" comes with heated seats, does she actually use the moonroof? I never did in 13 years of owning Audi A4 Avants . . .

Anyway, I'm super happy with mine, chipped it with an APR Stage I 91 octane upgrade ($599), got some OEM 17x6.5's with Hakka R3's, driven in snow twice so far and it rocks. Plus it's the only small wagon I could find with a 6MT . . .
11-29-2018, 06:31 PM
tango uniform

Quote:

Originally Posted by gregL

Even the "S" comes with heated seats, does she actually use the moonroof? I never did in 13 years of owning Audi A4 Avants . . .

Anyway, I'm super happy with mine, chipped it with an APR Stage I 91 octane upgrade ($599), got some OEM 17x6.5's with Hakka R3's, driven in snow twice so far and it rocks. Plus it's the only small wagon I could find with a 6MT . . .

They're also leakers! Shhhhhh.... I didn't say that.

I couldn't wait for the MT6, but I'm good with the auto; all highway; 150/day; plus it's easier to surf the web while driving....jk
11-29-2018, 06:38 PM
tango uniform

It could be viewed that the roof is an extra 3600.00, and will likely leak at some point.

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