[Aussie]

That was an interesting comparison. I wonder how my Cruze would stack up against the VW. It has a different engine (161hp) and transmission (6T45) and hydraulic steering which feels nicely weighted to me. It also has 266L/F of torque at the same 1750rpm as the VW. Also it is 36kg lighter at 1540kg than the US Cruze. Not saying it is better just different enough that it might make a difference.

PS. For me the biggest difference between the US engine and the one used in my car is the chain driven cams. Does the VW use belts or chains on the cams?

 

[Aussie]

My son's mother in law has a diesel Jetta with dsg transmission and he said he likes it but the Cruze is a lot smoother to drive and he prefers it to the Jetta. He is not the sort of persons who just tells you what you want to hear he tells it like he sees it.

 

[Aussie]

I think my 2014 CTD is downgraded a little compared with earlier hydraulic steering and a timing chain cars. At least it still has a real 6 speed tranny which I'm sure will eventually be replaced with cheaper CVTs in entry level cars.

The timing chain engine is actually the newer design.