What is your opinion of Volkswagon?

I've heard all those horror stories too but in my experience, as an '07 Jetta owner, I've never had a more reliable car. I have 74000 miles on mine now, bought it at 34000 and I've only replaced a frozen washer fluid pump all under CPO warranty. Well, that and a few black door trim pieces that were fading and peeling in the SC sun. Replaced a dead battery too, but most likely because I added a shotty sound system in it. But mechanically, this car is amazing, I'm certain it'll reach 125000+ before anything big needs replacing. If you need help deciding among models, there's really only one choice IMO. Get an '06+ Jetta GLI or, if you need a hatchback, the GTI. Nearly identical cars, turbocharged, 0-60 in less than 7 seconds, and 32mpg hwy. I learned the hard way and settled for the 2.5 Jetta with auto, but still a great car. In addition, the '06-'07 Jetta 2.5s had 150hp, the '08+ has 170. But they're all geared to burn the rubber off no matter what you choose, just the 2.0 turbo is a much better choice.