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Joined 1 year ago
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Cake day: July 1st, 2023

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  • My Golf is a tad below 1.2 tons, but that’s beside my point.

    The thing about those “mid-range” SUVs is that they are worse in every measurable aspect when it comes to environmental impact. A couple months ago, I compared a VW Golf with a VW Tiguan, both with the same engine. The Tiguan is heavier, uses more fuel and is bigger (space it takes in the city) than the Golf. Both have the same engine, both accommodate 4-5 people and get you to your destination dry and warm.

    The “compact” SUV is worse off in every objective category, and I’m not even getting into manufacturing CO2 or things like pedestrian safety. Off-road vehicles have their practical uses. SUVs don’t, for the vast majority of owners.


  • In Germany, you pay your taxes per 100 cc of displacement and emisssions. It has always been that way, but it changes very little in your overall cost calculation. I drive an older VW Golf with a 1.4 petrol engine. That costs 94 € per year in taxes. Considering insurance, running costs and purchase of the vehicle, that’s almost nothing.

    What I mean is: Having a big engine isn’t a lot more expensive over here. The tax laws are not based on fuel economy or vehicle weight or size. I could have a car with a 3 Liter engine that weighs twice as much as my Golf, and I wouldn’t care if I wanted that fabulous SUV experience.