2009 Volkswagen Passat: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Volkswagen Passat is no longer offered with a manual transmission, a V6 engine, or all-wheel drive. This front-wheel-drive midsize car comes as a sedan or wagon in a single Komfort trim level. The sole powertrain teams a turbocharged 200-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The VR6 model, which had a V6 engine and available AWD, has been discontinued. Available safety equipment includes ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, front side airbags, rear side airbags, and curtain side airbags. A navigation system is optional, and it includes a hard drive for storing digital music files.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord, and Kia Rondo. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 5, Saturn Aura, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Prius.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mazda 6, Mitsubishi Galant, and Nissan Maxima.