The present Passat Sedan is larger in nearly every dimension than the car it replaced. Styling is handsome inside and out.

The Volkswagen Passat Sedan comes in Highline DSG and Highline DSG S versions, with a 2-liter turbo-charged, direct-injection, four-cylinder diesel engine that delivers acceptable acceleration and impressive fuel economy. A six-speed manual transmission is standard. A six-speed automatic that features Tiptronic manual shift capability is optional.

While the 2-liter turbo is arguably the automaker's best all-around engine in terms of bang for the buck it doesn't feel as powerful in the Volkswagen Passat Sedan as it does in smaller models like the VW GTi and the Audi A3.

See specs of Volkswagen Passat variants

A range of advanced systems are standard for added control over a wide range of conditions and handling situations. These include four-wheel antilock disc brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, Anti-Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Locking, and VW's Electronic Stabilization Program. What's more, the Volkswagen Passat Sedan offers eight airbags, along with active head restraints to help reduce whiplash injuries; rear side-thorax airbags are optional.

Exterior styling for the Volkswagen Passat Sedan is smooth, sleek, and uncluttered, capped with VW's signature two-piece front grille. The interior is well finished in quality materials, and it offers ample accommodations for five adults. Rear-seat legroom grew by 2.4 inches with the last redesign. The rear seat in the Volkswagen Passat Sedan features separate climate-control vents, 60/40-split folding seat backs to expand the already spacious trunk, and a folding center armrest with a pass-through feature for transporting skis or other long and narrow objects.

See photos of Volkswagen Passat

The Volkswagen Passat Sedan offers a few noteworthy options, including adaptive headlamps that illuminate the road through curves at night. Also available is a premium sound system from the Danish company Dynaudio, which is custom designed for the Passat Sedan. Those particular options are only available with high-priced option packages.

Is the Volkswagen Passat Sedan for You?

Buy the Passat Sedan if	You want a roomy and handsome midsize sedan with a sportier personality than the typical family car affords.
Keep Looking if	You're on a tight budget and/or don't feel the need to pay extra for the Passat's handling abilities and premium accommodations.
Who Fits?	Four adults will enjoy ample comfort, with a fifth passenger able to ride in the Passat's roomy rear seat when needed.
Closest Competitors	Audi A4 BMW 3 Series Mercedes-Benz C-Class Toyota Camry.

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