2000 Volkswagen Passat: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Introduction of all-wheel-drive models and an available V6 wagon highlight 2000 for Volkswagen's biggest car. Passat borrows pieces from sister-company Audi's A6 model, which is larger and costlier. Four-door sedans and wagons are offered with front-wheel drive or VW's new 4Motion all-wheel drive system. Standard on all are antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, front side airbags, and, on front-drive models, traction control.

GLS models offer a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine or extra-cost V6; the V6 was previously available only on the sedans. GLX sedans and wagons come standard with the V6, plus leather upholstery and wood interior trim. Manual transmission is standard on all models and a 5-speed automatic with a manual shifting mode is optional. 4Motion is available only on automatic-transmission GLX models. It normally maintains a 50/50 front/rear torque split but can sense tire slip and redistribute up to 75 percent of the engine's power to either axle to restore traction. Exclusive to GLXs are 16-inch alloy wheels; last year, these were optional on GLSs in place of their 15-inch steel rims.

Other additions for 2000 include a dealer-installed dashboard CD changer, a wood shift knob for the GLX, and for all models, an anti-theft coded ignition key and a dashboard light that illuminates when the brakes might need to be serviced.

COMPETITION

Mazda's 626 gets the nod as the Best Buy in this class. Not because it's the fastest or roomiest, but because it is the best all-around performer. Ranging in price from $18,000 to $22,000 depending on equipment and engine choice, the 626 offers room for four large adults, a comfortable but sporty ride, above average acceleration, and good fuel economy.

Recommended choices include the sporty Mitsubishi Galant, the vanilla Nissan Altima, the powerful Oldsmobile Alero, and the refined Volkswagen Passat.

Hyundai's Sonata is our Budget Buy here. Though it's just an average performer on the road, its below average price and quality construction help it stand out. Chrysler's new PT Cruiser is the wildcard in this segment. Not really a sport-utility or minivan, the PT has been well-received by our staff. It offers versatility and eye-catching styling not found among compact cars.