Passat Prowess
Where the Passat noticeably separates itself from the large field of milquetoast mid-size sedans in today's mid-price market is in driving and handling dynamics. The Passat connects its driver more tightly to the road than most domestics or the Toyota Camry. The cost of improving road feel and handling ability over much of the competition isn't paid in paper currency; the currency tendered is that of ride comfort. Don't get me wrong though. The Passat delivers a comfortable, highly composed ride without becoming a pillow-soft sled. Yet some may find its ride dynamics slightly more abrupt than desired. For those, Buick has the answer.

The Passat offers a communication drive.

I very much enjoyed the spirited dynamics VW engineers calibrated into the Passat's fully independent suspension. I was never left second-guessing where the limits of adhesion were or what to expect when placing the vehicle into an emergency maneuver. Hard braking was undertaken without any unnecessary fanfare and control was never compromised during panic stops. Brake sensitivity is decidedly Germanic-feeling though, which is to say highly sensitive. Nothing more than a light touch was needed to provoke an immediate response that was sometimes more than hoped for.

Passat Paraphrase
Passat build quality is very good and its list of standard airbags includes driver and front passenger thorax airbags along with side curtain airbags front and rear; electronic vehicle stabilization is optional. The front seats in my tester were among the best I have sampled, as was the Passat's optional dual-zone climate control, which is simplicity at its best.

I didn't find the Passat as quiet as some of the more mundane competition referred to earlier. Levels of road and wind noise, while effectively, muted seem to exceed those found in the Camry and some of the ultra quiet sedans marketed today. Nevertheless the increased auditory feedback and reduced sensory deprivation lends credibility to the spirited soul that flourishes within the "low on ego" Passat.

As usual, build quality is high.

Potent, polished mill
Spirited driving dynamics
Room to stretch


Not as quiet as some
Requires premium nectar
Can get pricey


Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) is not standard equipment
Lingering reliability concerns


Photo Credit : Rob Rothwell