2006 Volkswagen Passat: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Volkswagen redesigns its midsize car for 2006 with fresh styling, larger dimensions, and more power. Passats come as 4-dr sedans and as 4-dr wagons that went on sale in mid 2006 as 2007 models. The redesigned Passats retain virtually the same wheelbase as the 1998-2005 models they replace, but their bodies are 3 inches longer and wider. Both come in models designated Value Edition, 2.0 T, and 3.6. The 3.6 versions are available with front-wheel drive or with VW's 4Motion all-wheel drive. The other models are front-drive only. Value and 2.0 T models have a turbocharged 200-hp 4-cyl engine. The 3.6 versions have a 280-hp V6. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on 4-cyl sedans. A 6-speed automatic with manual shift gate is optional on the 4-cyl sedans and standard on wagons and 3.6 sedans. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and traction/antiskid control are standard on all Passats. So are front-torso side airbags and curtain side airbags. Rear torso-side airbags are optional. Newly available features include a navigation system and steering-linked bi-xenon headlamps. Leather upholstery is optional, with wood interior trim available on 3.6s only.

COMPETITION

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

New or significantly redesigned models include Chevrolet Impala, Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Volkswagen Passat.