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What's New: Side curtain airbags that offer head protection for front and rear passengers are introduced this year, and optional steering wheel controls for the audio and cruise systems are available on GLS (standard on GLX models). All models receive a trunk entrapment release button as standard equipment. Type: Mid-size car Pros: Fun-to-drive, excellent value in base trim, roomy/comfortable interior, solid build quality. Cons: Slight turbo lag on four-cylinder models, some confusing interior controls, price goes up quick with options. Review Volkswagen has been busy in recent years. In between buying up smaller carmakers, designing 12- and 16-cylinder engines, and creating a new line of luxury vehicles, the company has had time to tweak its already excellent Passat sedan and wagon offerings. The base Passat engine is a 1.8-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 150 horsepower and an almost lag-free 155 foot-pounds of torque. While not a race engine, this powerplant offers adequate acceleration and contributes more to the Passat's overall grin factor than one might think, especially when mated to the company's excellent five-speed manual transmission. Stepping up to the 2.8-liter V6 will net you an additional 40 horsepower and 52 more foot-pounds of torque. The V6 comes standard on Passat GLX models and puts the "fun" back in functional with its broad torque band and responsive acceleration. Volkswagen's responsive, five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is also available on the GLX. Regardless of drivetrain choice, all Passats come with superb steering, handling and braking characteristics. With ABS four-wheel discs standard on all trim levels, an independent front and rear suspension, and perfectly weighted power rack-and-pinion steering, the Passat is one of the most entertaining sedans (or wagons) in the midsize class. Some drivers note a bit too much body roll during canyon runs, but the pay- off comes in its excellent overall ride quality. For those living in cold-weather climates, or drivers who enjoy the added stablity of all-wheel drive, the Passat can be had with Volkswagen's 4-Motion system. In addition to its mechanical pedigree, the Passat offers up an impressive list of standard features. Items like air conditioning, cruise control, one-touch power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, a remote trunk release, a full-size conventional spare, side airbags and heated exterior mirrors are included on the base GLS models. GLX trim adds the aforementioned V6 engine, sunroof, heated front seats with driver's seat memory, leather seat coverings and door inserts, variable intermittent wipers with heated jets and an auto-dimming day-night mirror. New this year as standard equipment on Passat GLX (optional on GLS models) are multi-function steering wheel controls for the audio and cruise systems. All Passats get a trunk entrapment release button and side curtain protection airbags to better protect both front and rear passengers from head injuries. Based on a stretched Audi A4 platform and using plenty of Audi parts in its construction, the Passat looks, feels, smells and drives like a more substantial car than its base price tag would lead you to believe. Its contemporary styling will wear well into the new century and its solid construction should keep the car feeling new as the miles add up. Before rushing out to buy that new Accord, Camry or Taurus, you'd do well to at least test-drive a Passat. Styles & Prices at Edmunds.com | | | | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
