The goal with the Passat in both markets is to position it as a premium choice for mainstream mid-size sedan buyers who like the luxury car goodies, but aren't yet prepared to sacrifice the size and space they want just for the privilege of driving something with a German luxury car badge. As such, it sees its competition as vehicles like the Acura TL as much as mainstreamers such as V-6 versions of the Camry and Altima.
The sixth-generation Passat's calling card is power, both under the hood and in the passenger compartment. Three trim levels are offered, the 2.0T, the 3.6 and the 3.6 4Motion all-wheel drive version, with wagon and likely diesel variants coming later.
Space inside the Passat is definitely improved, but it's still not the roomiest car in its class. The front seats are moulded nicely to maximize legroom, and with the front seat adjusted for a six-footer I could comfortably fit my six-foot frame in the rear seat, but I was pushing its space limits.
Trim materials inside are impressive, especially on the V-6 model, as well they should be. The Passat 3.6 is considerably more expensive...
With nearly equal acceleration, a much lower price, plus significantly better fuel economy, it's not surprising that VW expects the 2.0T version to far outsell its muscular big brother, to the tune of nine to one.
It's an impressive car, and should appeal to well-heeled buyers with a hunger for power, whether luxury intenders or not.
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