Reborn and renamed in 2012, the Volkswagen Passat SEL PZEV is longer, leaner and more agile than its quasi-luxury predecessors. From its new sport-tuned suspension to its nearly 16 cubic feet of trunk space to its 192-inch overall length, this 5-passenger midsize sedan was redesigned with the U.S. family steadfastly in mind. The standard 2.5-liter engine, also new this year, is tweaked to adhere strictly to California’s landmark emissions regulations and will burn low-sulfur gasoline with no degradation in performance; thus the Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) rating. This doesn’t mean, however, that this upper midlevel trim gets cheated out of its plethora of standard goodies. A power sunroof and 17-inch alloy wheels bolster a pleasant and functional, if not awe-inspiring exterior, while heated front seats, leatherette upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, front and rear floor mats and simulated wood accents top the list of standard cabin amenities. Also inside are standard cruise control, dual-zone climate control, a dashboard video monitor, a universal remote garage door opener and a hard-drive-based navigation system. Entertainment is in the embrace of the standard Fender premium audio system starring an MP3-capable single-CD player and nine speakers and is complemented by satellite radio and a memory card slot. Standard Bluetooth hands-free technology, meanwhile eases communications. Options consist only of a number of cargo organizers and the one-of-a-kind Passat lip spoiler.
Powering the environmentally friendly, front-wheel-drive (FWD) 2012 Passat SEL PZEV is the just-introduced 2.5-liter inline 5-cylinder (I5) engine and its accompanying 6-speed auto-manual transmission. This matchup puts out 170 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque, and is good for an estimated 22 mpg city/31 highway.
Standard safety features aboard the 2012 Passat SEL PZEV include 4-wheel antilock braking (ABS), traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags, front side-mounted airbags and front head-restraint whiplash protection. Additional safety equipment includes daytime running lights, turn-signal-integrated mirrors, dusk-sensing headlights, a post-collision safety system and a remote antitheft alarm.
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