For 2012, the Volkswagen Passat S, now representing the base trim of the lineup, comes across as a bigger, friendlier, more economically viable 5-passenger sedan. With standard 16-inch steel wheels and power-adjustable mirrors outside, and cloth upholstery, cruise control, dual-zone climate control, remote power door locks and power windows inside, the redesigned Passat S distances itself from many rival entry-level offerings. Add to all that a sport-tuned suspension, almost 16 cubic feet of trunk space, standard telescoping tilt-wheel steering, a trip computer, MP3-capable single-CD player with six speakers and Bluetooth hands-free communications technology, and this affordable sedan ought to strike a chord with those in the market for a well-endowed family car. Options for the base Passat S, meantime, include an Appearance package with 16-inch alloy wheels, 6-speed auto-manual transmission and folding rear-seat center armrest, as well as a unique Passat lip spoiler and carpeted front and rear floor mats.
Powering the front-wheel-drive 2012 Passat S is a brand-new 2.5-liter inline 5-cylinder engine (I5) that combines with the standard 5-speed manual transmission for 170 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. The manual transmission comes with a brake hill holder, while the available Appearance package replaces the stick shift with a Tiptronic 6-speed auto-manual transmission that includes a driver-selectable sport mode. EPA estimates put mileage with the manual transmission at 21 mpg city/32 highway, and the 6-speed auto-manual at 22/31.
Safety-wise, the 2012 Passat S is delivered with 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front side-mounted airbags, front and rear head airbags and front head-restraint whiplash protection. Additional standard safety and security equipment includes daytime running lights, turn-signal-integrated mirrors, dusk-sensing headlights, remote antitheft alarm and a post-collision safety system.
5 GOOD DEALS
are available with average savings of $1,067 below market price
