2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS Road Test

Clearly visible to the driver through the upper half of the steering wheel is a large analog tachometer situated next to a matching speedometer, both of which are

The standard audio system is straightforward and easy to use, but doesn't produce the same sensational sound as the optional Monsoon system. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

separated by an LCD screen displaying a driver information center. At night these gauges illuminate with brilliant blue backgrounds, while the remaining instrumentation lighting is red. Although some may view the lighting scheme as garish, I favored the array of color and glitz, finding it very effective at clearly displaying critical data.

In the center stack next to the gauge cluster VW has located a straightforward, easy to use audio system, which includes a single-disc CD player as standard equipment. The sound quality of this base unit is good but not sensational. For that an upgrade to the Monsoon audio system is necessary. I

The shifter is set amid a hefty chrome bezel, which adds a classy touch to the fairly stark GLS interior. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

sampled the Monsoon system in a Passat W8 wagon that I tested several months ago and was highly impressed with its sound reproduction and dynamic range.

Heat and ventilation controls are the basic, but highly functional, rotary-dial variety that I so appreciate. This makes the HVAC system easy and intuitive to operate. On maximum, the force of the air-conditioning unit is capable of relocating small parcels to the back seat. Blending in with the center stack is the floor console, which houses the stick shift. The shifter is set amid a hefty chrome bezel, which adds a classy touch to the fairly stark GLS interior. The bezel features additional gating for Volkswagen's Tiptronic manual-mode shifting that accompanies the automatic 5-speed transmission. Standard in the Passat, however, is a 5-speed manual gearbox, with a 6-speed manual available when the W8 option is selected.