← Back

Volkswagen Group

Flagged · Avoid

Multinational automotive manufacturing corporation owning brands like Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Bentley, and Lamborghini.

Last updated May 6, 2026

Reasons to avoid

Issues span:ConsumerEnvironmentLabor
  1. Reportedly "worst positioned" to meet 2025 EU CO2 targets, facing potential fines despite green marketing.Forbes2024-08-30
  2. Ongoing fallout from the "Dieselgate" emissions scandal, with billions in continued costs and legal battles.Carscoops2025-05-20
  3. Found liable for "slave-like labor conditions" on a Brazilian cattle farm during the 1970s dictatorship.GlobalPost2025-09-15
  4. Thousands of Porsche, Bentley, and Audi vehicles impounded by US customs due to parts made with forced labor.Financial Times2024-02-14

Ethical alternatives

Reliable Cars & SUVs
Subaru
Consistently top-rated for safety and reliability, with no major safety cover-ups at GM's scale.
♻️ Sustainable
Visit →
Honda
Long record of reliability and fuel efficiency. Fewer regulatory scandals than Detroit's Big Three.
♻️ Sustainable
Visit →
Electric Trucks & SUVs
Rivian
American-made electric trucks and SUVs built from the ground up as EVs, not retrofits. A genuine alternative for truck buyers.
♻️ Sustainable
Visit →
Polestar
EV-only brand with a strong sustainability focus and transparent supply chain reporting.
♻️ Sustainable
Visit →
Pre-Owned Vehicles
Carmax
Buying used is the most sustainable choice — no new manufacturing emissions, and often far cheaper.
👗 Second Hand
Visit →
Local Used Dealerships
Find a local independent used car lot near you — keep dollars in your community.
📍 Local Business👗 Second Hand