1999 Volkswagen Passat Review

The Volkswagen Passat sedan easily qualifies as that automaker's top car.

Volkswagen's New Beetle is grabbing the spotlight this year, but other VW models also are strong sellers. Sales of the Passat have doubled since it got a a major redesign for 1998.

Audi owns Volkswagen, so it's not surprising that the Passat strongly resembles an Audi and shares major parts with Audi models--although it has a ``Beetlesque'' sweeping roofline.

Volkswagen is positioning the Passat as an upscale model. In Europe, this car is considered a rival to entry-level BMW and Mercedes-Benz models, although it's doubtful many Americans feel that way--at least not yet.

The Passat starts at $20,750 and ends at $26,250 for the GLX model, which has items such as a leather interior, sunroof and heated power front seats.

I tested the $23,190 GLS V-6 model, which has the 190-horsepower, dual-overhead-camshaft V-6 that is standard in the GLX.

The GLS V-6 has tasteful wood interior trim, besides the large amount of equipment found in the lower-line Passat GLS four-cylinder. Standard are air conditioning, power windows and door locks, remote keyless entry, traction control, anti-lock brakes, cruise control, AM/FM/cassette, front side-impact air bags and sports car instrumentation.

Both Passat engines are above-average and work with a five-speed manual or Tiptronic five-speed automatic transmission that can be shifted manually.

The base, turbocharged, 1.8-liter 150-horsepower four-cylinder delivers spirited acceleration, while the 2.8-liter, 30-valve V-6 turns the car into a hot rod with either the manual or automatic.

The Passat is reasonably economical with the 20-valve four-cylinder, delivering an estimated 21-23 m.p.g. in the city and in the low 30s on highways. The 30-valve V-6 provides 18-20 m.p.g. in the city and 29 on the highway.

The solidly built Passat is fun to drive, with fast, precise steering and a taut suspension that delivers crisp handling and a supple ride. The powerful brakes stop the car surely and quickly, although the brake pedal is a bit too touchy.

Neat touches include outside door handles that are easily grabbed, outside rearview mirrors that are just the right size and polished aluminum shifter gate and inside door handles.

Too bad the rear windows don't go all the way down and the outside hood release feels flimsy. At least the hood uses hydraulic struts, eliminating the need for an old-fashioned prop rod. Controls work smoothly, but the radio controls are too small and the glovebox is tiny.

The Passat's rich-looking interior is quiet, except for a fair amount of road noise. This 106.4-inch-wheelbase sedan is shorter than many rivals but has limo-style backseat room. Four tall adults--or five in a pinch--can stretch out. The front seats are firm but very supportive and comfortable during long drives.

The dual front cupholders have a clever design that allows them to pop out from the dashboard and rear cupholders look sturdy.

The trunk is huge, and rear seatbacks flip forward to provide even more room for cargo.

The Passat provides lots of driving kicks and high practicality--a combination that is easy to get enthusiastic about.