Volkswagen Passat Overview

Volkswagen Passat Accessories

The Volkswagen Passat has long been a favorite among shoppers looking for a little more luxury and style in their midsize family sedan or wagon. For many folks, the Passat fills the gap that exists between normal, humdrum family cars and the financially out-of-reach luxury brands. Displaying a classy, restrained style inside and out, the Volkswagen Passat gives the impression of quiet competence, which is borne out by its refined driving character. Spirited performance and competent handling, along with a supple ride, are typical Passat traits.

Often regarded as a gateway vehicle for German luxury car fans who can't yet swing one of the country's premium nameplates, the VW Passat has enough in its favor to warrant consideration even from those with deeper pockets. This is certainly true of the current third-generation model and the earlier second-generation Passat. The first-gen car, due to its quirky design and questionable reliability, isn't as well regarded.

The present third-generation Passat debuted for 2006 with four trim levels -- Value Edition, 2.0T, 3.6, and 3.6 4Motion -- as well as two engine choices. The turbocharged four-cylinder has been the standard engine all along, but until 2009 a narrow-angle V6 known as the VR6 was optional. This engine pumped out 280 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque, and it could be had with all-wheel drive in the 3.6 4Motion trim. The short-lived Wolfsburg trim level in 2007 added some extra luxuries and visual distinction to the 2.0T model. For the 2008 model year, the trim levels were renamed Turbo, Komfort, Lux and VR6. Notably, some of these upper trim levels were more generously equipped than the '09 car. In particular, these Passats had more luxury-oriented features, including leather seating, a premium audio system and xenon lights.

Volkswagen Passat Overview

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