2000 VW Passat

By Bob Storck

Passat comes to our shores fresh from a sold out performance in Europe. The acceptance of the Passat here has shown Teutonic engineering can still relate. The really appealing feature is the roomy and well laid out interior, with reclining seat controls for not only the front, but also the rear. To round out the family oriented package, the designers have slipped in a large trunk.

For extra space, the Avant station wagon is stylish and spacious. Now it can be ordered with the narrow angle VR6, and all models get all speed traction control. Many Passat features only appear on high-end competitors, if at all.

The Audi 1.8 liter turbo four is powerful and capable at any speed. Then there's always the capable 3 liter V6 that most will choose. We've been awaiting the 4-Motion AWD system, but again, maybe next year.

Most will opt for the five speed adaptive automatic transmission, which alters its shift patterns to match driving style, with the Porsche developed Tiptronic feature. This allows the driver to shift the automatic like a manual.