As big a seller as the latest Jetta has been over the last two years, the there have been detractors that say the interior is a bit too basic. VW learned from this mistake and has included soft touch materials on the dash and framed with nice looking accents. The seats are bigger than the European Passat for our bigger than European backsides! All Passat models except the ''Highline'' trim come with faux leather that looks and feels very close to the real thing. In fact, I would stick with this over real leather due to durability and lack of aging from sunlight. Heated seats are part of the same ''Trendline Plus'' package and worth the additional $900. Bluetooth connectivity, auxiliary radio input, leather steering wheel and shifter are all included. It is hard to describe the room available in the back seat, the proportions really are limo like and the back might just be the best seat in the house.
The Ride
The Passat has three engines to choose from including a base 2.5L 5-cylinder, then a 2.0L turbo diesel and a 3.6L V6. The engine of choice for many buyers should be the ultra efficient diesel capable of using just 4.9L/100km on the highway when matched to an automatic. This motor pumps out gobs of torque and cruises with ease. The problem for some buyers is the price of the diesel at $27,495. This cheaper 2.5L engine isn't a drastic step down, it moves this big car well with its 170hp and is especially effective when placed in the transmissions sport setting. For those rare buyers who still like to throw their own gears, a manual is still available, a bit of an extinct species. The Passat comes with a fully independent suspension and the long wheelbase provides a supple yet connected ride. The interior is insulated from the outside world, only the drone of the 2.5L engine is noticeable. For buyers who like a bigger European car on a relative budget, this Passat offers a lot.
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