Yes, also the forced option packages. Want navigation without keyless go and blindspot detection? Nope.

There’s a speed limit of 85mph in the US. No car ever in the US will ever be used to its full potential on public roads.

On the positive side you guys get the more powerful engines and more equipment standard for less.

No sarcasm at all. All those mentioned by me exist. Today. Ready to buy. Just not for the American market because bluetooth and monthly payments seem to be the only thing important for local buyers. My daily is an ‘02 lwb Diesel manual Merc sedan. Then again, I’m in Germany wishing we had american fuel and car prices.

Yeah, because you absolutely can’t get a C or E wagon with a manual anymore. Or a 3-series, 5-series, A4, A6, Passat...

There’s loads of manual Mercs, the US just dont get them. The new E is the first to have a manual sourced by ZF and not developed in house though.

No, just no.

Why? Can’t compact cars be premium?

To me the thought that people are honestly angered or pissed off by this is ridiculous, as is the thought that someone bought a Diesel because its good for the environment.

Yeah, the low rpm turbo boost and torque makes it feel much more powerful than it really is.

They exist, my uncle had a grey diesel manual one with plastic bumpers, cloth seats, panoramic roof and park assist.

Lol. What about 200hp is even remotely related to a slow car?

Came here to mention those, wasn’t disappointed

She’s being driven like most politicians on a federal or state level here in Germany are. Even most mayors have their own (unarmored) A6 and a chauffeur. Personally she stated that she owns a 2010 Golf.

She currently drives an armoured A8 L W12. This to replace it is very unlikely.

Absolutely agree. I drive 35k miles a year just throughout Germany and I’m eternally thankful for diesel engines with our fuel prices. With large cities rather close and sometimes a few trips to the city center a day miles rack up fast.

Driving home from college over the weekend and spontaneous day trips to visit friends throughout Germany pay their toll. Luckily I have a Diesel or I’d be looking at a few thousands in fuel costs which frankly I couldn’t afford.

I wish big cars were as affordable here as they are in the US. Driving 35k miles a year got me to really appreciate the spacious cruisers you guys have over there :)

As a European, I can’t get how cheap cars and fuel in the US are and people are still whining all the time. 35k in Europe will get you a Golf with heated seats, 150hp and maybe nav.

Funny enough Road and Track managed to beat a Prius in fuel economy in an E250 Bluetec on a longer run around the SF bay area.