But beyond top-notch interior functionality, the fit and finish inside is marvelous. All surfaces speak of quality and class, including the authentic walnut wood trim adorning the center stack, console, shifter and door pulls - definitely an elegant touch that contrasted beautifully against the black leather upholstery of my test vehicle.
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| The fit and finish inside the Passat wagon is marvelous. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Equally as elegant, in my view, are the large circular analogue tachometer and speedometer that are positioned on either side of the LCD information screen. These instruments are very easy to read day or night and conveyed the precision of a Swiss timepiece. Following the same design theme and set slightly above the tach and speedo are two smaller gauges dealing with the engine temperature and fuel level. To the right of the main gauge cluster is the center stack, which houses the controls for the audio unit, heated seats, ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and heating and air-conditioning functions. I was particularly fond of the five-position dials, which set a wide temperature variance for the heated seats.
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| The optional premium Monsoon audio system is easy to use and really belts out the tunes. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
When equipped with the premium Monsoon audio system, as my tester was, the Passat wagon can really belt out the tunes with crystal clarity. In addition to its concert hall sound, this system was one of the most straightforward to use that I have encountered in a long while. Unlike the majority of high-end audio heads, this one didn't rely on multi tasking buttons and digital readouts to contour the sound dynamics. Rather it utilized three small dials to independently increase or decrease bass, mid-range and treble settings. Two matching dials managed balance and fade adjustments. It was absolutely refreshing to simply turn the relevant dial rather than search through multiple screens and programs in order to acquire audio perfection.