Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family oriented sedans and wagons.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Our Recommended picks include the Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima, and Subaru Outback and Legacy.

Passat is redesigned for 2006. Look for a U.S. debut this fall. New, more-chiseled styling wraps a slightly larger package. Wheelbase stays about the same, but the sedan grows 2.5 inches longer to around 187 overall, according to preliminary VW information. Width swells almost 3 inches to about 70, while overall height increases fractionally to around 58 inches. Wagons grow similarly, and first-time coupe models may be added later on.

Passat's redesign is based on what amounts to a stretched version of VW's new Golf/Jetta platform, which means engines will again mount crosswise, not lengthwise. Front drive and available AWD continue, however. U.S. engines should comprise a base 200-hp 2.0-liter turbo 4-cyl and a 250-hp 3.2-liter V6, both with direct fuel injection. A turbo V6 and a 2.5-liter 5-cyl turbodiesel may also be offered. Transmissions will depend on engine, but should involve 5- and 6-speed manuals, a 6-speed automatic with manual shift gate, and a computer-controlled 6-speed manual with automatic shift mode. Joining current standard features is an electronic parking brake with integrated hill-holder function that eliminates the need to keep a foot on the brake pedal when stopped on inclines. VW also confirms several new-to-Passat options, including DVD navigation, a remote keyless entry/engine-start system, and "smart" cruise control designed to automatically maintain a set following distance. Other first-time extras include a Bluetooth wireless connection for cell phones, steering-linked bi-xenon headlamps, and 600-watt premium audio. We'll have more details soon, including perhaps an idea on pricing, so keep checking back with us.