2006 Volkswagen Passat

With a re-envisioned chrome grille and front end, a sweeping new style from end to end, and an elegant new interior the represents the best of the breed, the Volkswagen Passat sought to take on all mid-size competitors for 2006 by offering a perfect balance of luxury, power, and contemporary styling.

While the most noticeable changes for the 2006 Passat were on the outside, the real story starts under the hood, with an all-new 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that pumped out 200 hp. It was dropped into two new Passat trim packages for 2006, the Value Edition and the 2.0T, and matched with a six-speed manual overdrive transmission, which was standard; a six-speed automatic was available as an option.

Volkswagen also offered a 3.6-liter, 280-hp V6 engine, which was standard on the high-end Passat 3.6L trim package. The six-speed automatic transmission was also standard with this package, and VW's 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system was available as an option.

Overall, the 2006 Passat was three inches longer and three inches wider than the previous year's model. And into that longer, wider body Volkswagen packed a long list of standard features, including
air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, cruise control, a telescoping and tilt steering wheel, a trip computer, and an audio system with a CD player and MP3 capability. Safety features included traction control, stability control, an anti-lock braking system, an anti-theft system, and front, side, and side curtain airbags.

The 3.6L package added even more, including a power sunroof and a CD changer. Options included a leather steering wheel, a navigation system, heated seats, and power-adjusted seats.

The refinements and additions to the 2006 Passat did not escape the notice of drivers, many of whom were impressed not only with the car's interior appointments but also its handling, suspension, comfort, and styling. Minor problems were noted with the electrical system by some drivers, but other than that drivers voiced few complaints about the car.