Volkswagen Passat Wagon
19-July-2011
- Vital Stats
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$40,990 - $46,990
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Unleaded and diesel
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Big enough
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4
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The Scoop
Choosing your next family car is the gift that keeps on giving - so with many viable options on the market, test-driving is a must when whittling back to a final decision.
One serious contender to take for a spin at your nearest dealership is the Volkswagen Passat Wagon; representing not only a great price (it starts at $40,990) but a comfortable and practical ride with comfort and style to boot.
The drive
Although extremely popular overseas, the Passat has yet to hit its stride here in Australia. Yet it’s not for a lack of offering – the Passat has practicality and style in spades. It’s just that there’s so much competition in the family car category that, much like Susan Boyle, the Passat hasn’t yet had its breakout opportunity.
The Passat in fact is a fabulous car to drive – it’s refined, responsive and easy to park (with front and rear sensors); steering is made particularly easy with power steering; and it maneuvers and brakes well.
Quiet and smooth, it fairs well in the city and is never heavy when you’re out on the highway. Visibility wise, it’s impressive for both driver and passengers.
Inside
The Passat has a modern, comfortable and spacious interior. It seats 5 with the driver’s seat electronically adjustable with a 6-way setting and height-adjustable steering. The Passat has lots of legroom and great storage options, complete with a smart umbrella drainage compartment on the driver’s side. The boot is a stand-out with enough room to store the groceries, kids bags and then some.
Want fries with that? The Passat comes with a sunroof as optional, yet bonus roof-rails come as standard; and there’s a 6-CD MP3-compatible sound system with 8 speakers, a touch-screen display, dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, and 3 auxiliary jacks around the cabin.
Safety
With a 5-star safety rating, the Passat comes with 8 airbags (think frontal, side, and head), a Passive Safety System; Anti-Slip Regulation, ABS brakes with EBD and the ESP package as standard.
3 words to describe this car:
Stylish, practical, roomy.
What are the best things about this car?
The big boot, mega-comfy seats and lavish interior.
What are the downsides of this car?
In a world of new cars coming with everything but the kitchen sink, the Passat’s iPod connectivity and sat nav. don’t come as standard.
What kind of fuel does this car use?
Unleaded and diesel, depending on the variants that include the Passat Wagon 103 TDI, Wagon 125 TDI, Wagon147 TSI, Wagon V6 FSI Highline, and Wagon R36.
Soundtrack of choice for the Volkswagen Passat Wagon?
Firework – Katy Perry.