Introduced for 2012, Volkswagen's midsized sedan was redesigned and optimized for the American market; that is to say, it grew larger than most competitors, lost some of that crisp European driving feel, and became less expensive.
Since then, continual changes have tweaked and honed the Passat. For 2014, VW replaced the unrefined and thirsty five-cylinder engine with a smooth and responsive 170-hp, 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. This new engine provides readily available power and achieves 28 mpg overall -- very commendable for such a large sedan. The six-speed automatic transmission works well enough, but isn't quite as refined as the better ones in this category. Buyers willing to sacrifice fuel economy for speed can go for the 3.6-liter V6; acceleration is swift and it got 23 mpg in our tests.
Passat buyers who prioritize fuel economy tended to go with the diesel-powered Passat TDI. Its engine was redesigned for 2015, delivering an excellent 36 mpg overall in our testing. While very efficient for this amount of space, the Passat TDI isn't a runaway fuel economy champ. It only beats the most efficient non-hybrid midsized sedans, like the Mazda6 and Nissan Altima, by four or five mpg overall. Hybrid versions of the Toyota Camry and Ford Fusion are quicker and more efficient. Where the Passat TDI really shines is on long highway road trips, with an amazing 49 mpg and over 800 miles of range.
On the road, the Passat feels solid and satisfying, with fairly agile handling, a comfortable ride, and a very quiet cabin. Inside, drivers will find oodles of space, simple controls, good outward visibility, and a comfortable driving position. But the fit and finish isn't that impressive, and the car is a bit stingy with standard features. The seats are large and supportive, even over the long haul, but some staffers found them to be too hard. Rear-seat and trunk room are supremely generous, equaling some large sedans. And the Passat's upright stance provides easy cabin access and a good view out.
2016 brings an update for the Passat, with new front and rear styling, added infotainment capability, and up-to-date electronic safety gear.