In addition to a comprehensive safety package, residing in Passats ranging from base through to the
4.0-liter W8 GLX, the latter discontinued after this year, is an abundance of comfort and convenience accoutrements. Despite my GLS tester arriving without the spoils of the Leather Package, which adds leather seating, a leather covered multi-function steering wheel, leather shift knob and leather hand brake, or the Luxury Package, which adds a power sunroof, alloy wheels and HomeLink, it was nicely appointed. The standard GLS indulgences include remote locking, power windows, power mirrors, air conditioning, cruise control, Monsoon sound and heated seats. OnStar is also available along with a Sport Package, which adds 17-inch alloy wheels and sport suspension.
Regardless of how a Passat purchaser chooses to equip or not equip VW's midsize wagon, it won't detract from the vehicle's core attributes of sensibility and practicality. Although the solidly built Passat TDI wagon may lack driving spice, it is a high performer in the categories of comfort, functionality and frugality, not to mention its a pleasure to drive.
Specifications (TDI wagon):
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| Comfort, functionality and frugality are definitely the Passat TDI wagon's specialties. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Regardless of how a Passat purchaser chooses to equip or not equip VW's midsize wagon, it won't detract from the vehicle's core attributes of sensibility and practicality. Although the solidly built Passat TDI wagon may lack driving spice, it is a high performer in the categories of comfort, functionality and frugality, not to mention its a pleasure to drive.
Specifications (TDI wagon):
- Price Range (MSRP): $30,190 - $57,820 ($24,360 - 41,160 USD)
- Body Type: 5-door wagon
- Layout: Front engine, FWD
- Engine: 134-hp, 247 lb-ft of torque, 2.0-L, (122 cu-in) turbo diesel
- Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 5-spd auto with manual mode)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS with EDS
- Cargo Cap (wagon seats up/folded): 1104 / 1,600 L (39.0 / 56.5 cu ft)
- Curb Weight: 1,599 kg (3,519 lbs)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 2.0-L TDI, 8.7 / 6.1 L/100 km (27 - 38 mpg)
- Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Audi A4 Avant, BMW 3-Series Wagon, Dodge Magnum, Ford Taurus Wagon, Jaguar X-Type Wagon, Mazda6 Wagon, Mercedes C-Class Wagon, Saab 9-5 Wagon, Subaru Legacy Wagon, Volvo V50
- Web Site: www.vw.ca
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