The 2012 Volkswagen Passat SEL Premium PZEV is now longer, leaner and tweaked to step a bit greener. This 5-passenger midsize sedan’s 2.5-liter inline 5-cylinder (I5) engine gets upgraded catalytic converters and the ability to burn low-sulfur gasoline in keeping with stringent California emissions codes, thus earning it a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) rating. The I5 still puts out 170 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque, aided by its standard 6-speed auto-manual transmission with sport mode selection. Expect some 22 mpg city/32 highway with this decidedly eco-friendly and decently efficient combination.
Green-leaning reputation notwithstanding, as the top-shelf trim in the 2012 Passat lineup, the SEL Premium still boasts 17-inch alloy wheels, a power sunroof and heated, power-adjustable outside mirrors. Leather upholstery, as well as leather and simulated wood grain accents give the cabin a posh feel, while power-adjustable heated front seats, front and rear floor mats and dual-zone climate control don’t hurt, either. Further cabin amenities include a telescoping and tilting steering wheel mounting audio and cruise controls, as well as a universal remote garage door opener and memory for three drivers' settings. Entertainment, meanwhile, is provided by the standard Fender premium audio system with an MP3-capable single-CD player and 9 speakers, including a subwoofer, not to mention standard satellite radio service and a memory card slot. Finally, standard Bluetooth hands-free communications technology complements a hard-drive-based navigation system to finish off this impressive list of features. Options, such as they are, include a unique Passat lip spoiler and a number of trunk/cargo organizers.
Standard safety equipment aboard the 2012 Passat SEL Premium PZEV includes 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags, front head-restraint whiplash protection and front side-mounted airbags. Daytime running lights, a post-collision safety system, turn-signal-integrated mirrors and a remote antitheft alarm, meantime, also come standard in this classy sedan.
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are available with average savings of $1,343 below market price
