It may or may not be a slap on the wrist in the US, but it is a global problem for VW. If they get into deep enough trouble in Europe (see posts above) then it won't matter about the US, they won't have any cars to sell there.

I actually think it is a bigger problem for diesels than VW. As regulators rationalize the different fuel tax rates, and tighten up the NOx standards in Europe, life will get tough for those trying to shift consumers to diesels.

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2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White

Retired:
2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
2004 Z4 3.0 Premium, Sport, SMG, Maldives Blue