On the road, the suspension offers a nice balance between ride and handling while giving the impression that the Passat is firmly planted on the road. The driver feels quite comfortable and satisfied behind the wheel.

Not the lightest or smallest in its class, the Passat still manages to offer good driving dynamics.

A surprisingly dynamic 4-cylinder
The Volkswagen Passat is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. The 200 horsepower not only look promising on paper, but they're also pretty rewarding on the road. The power delivery is flexible and the turbo knows how to be effective and subtle at the same time. Meanwhile, the transmission is outstandingly smooth, with well-calibrated gear ratios.

The 200-hp four-banger, seamless turbocharger and smart gearbox make up a winning formula for brisk accelerations and reasonable fuel economy (10.5 L/100 km). The brakes are decent, yet they could easily be improved. That said, in normal driving conditions, the braking system operates with a relatively firm hand.

Not the lightest or smallest in its class, the Passat still manages to offer good driving dynamics. The steering is always accurate and firm enough to encourage spirited driving. The car holds the road quite well and feels both solid and precise in corners. Of course, every safety feature Volkswagen has to offer is included. What's more, all-around visibility is good.

Let's sum up...
The 2008 Volkswagen Passat is a nice car for performance enthusiasts who desperately want to fly under the radar. Far from a head-turner, this low-key sedan stands out by offering above-average quality, fit and finish. It's also an energetic yet comfortable and efficient performer. As far as family sedans go, this one is really pleasant to drive. While the Passat is slightly pricier than most, it certainly deserves serious consideration due to its high-value proposition.

The Volkswagen Passat is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine.