A global powerhouse of an automaker, Volkswagen has struggled to find the right recipe for success in America. Americans, for the most part, just want a car that is affordable, dependable, fuel-efficient, safe, and wrapped in styling that won’t embarrass them. Traditionally, Volkswagen has appealed to enthusiasts who appreciate and value German design and engineering, enough to pay a slight premium for it. Once Volkswagen proves it builds bulletproof vehicles, sales will rise. In the meantime, failing the faithful (Passat – as good as it actually is) at the same time that marketers shrink programs that attract new buyers (free scheduled maintenance) are steps in the wrong direction.