Hey Pappy!
I don't mean to turn you off but the VW forums are generally pretty liberal...
I'm a diesel Dubber. 1890 VW Caddy (the pickup) with a transplanted 1.6td.
That era was analog everything. There are about 5 wires going to my engine and thats the way I like it. 45 mpg. And I brew my own Bio-d so it doesn't get any cheaper than that.
For you I would recommend a Toureg.
Ya' know, in case you need to defend yourself...
Now as far as the newer era...
Long term cars that people want to keep usually have a Toyota or a Honda badge and don't have a diesel in them either......Your experience may vary....
My other car is my second 91 Honda Accord, and I'll probably buy a third when this one is done. Put gas in it and change the brake pads every so often and you'll get to 300,000mi.