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2007 Volkswagen Passat Wagon Review

The 2007 VW Passat (Wagon) is one of those vehicles whereby you "feel" the technology and engineering that went into developing the vehicle. The 2007 Passat Wagon is precise, handles well, and has a great computer system - easy to use, telling you everything you would need to know and then some. A plus point for families, you are surrounded by airbags in the event of a collision.



My only dislikes are the stereo system. It is definitely NOT for the music lover, there is NO iPOD connection, and aesthetically it is not pleasing.

I do not like the quality of sound either. There are no redundant controls on the steering wheel which nowadays are common place even in lesser expensive vehicles. Personal storage space in the glove compartment and in general is limited ... or maybe, I am use to a lot more on my previous vehicle - the back end doesn’t count. AND the cup holder in the centre counsel looks like the packaging from a "Ding Dong" cupcake snack. Other than that, it is a terrific vehicle. Definitely read up on the specs and consumer reviews. Apparently, this has the same engine as the Audi TT. You will not go wrong investing in this car.

New for 2007

The 2007 Volkswagen Passat Wagon is redesigned with a longer wheelbase and a wider body featuring a new medallion-shaped grille and clear high-tech headlights. Inside the Passat interior is more functional and ergonomic, with more rear-seat legroom and new rear vents heat and air conditioning. The Passat is powered by a new 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged intercooled engine delivering 207 lb-ft of torque from 1800 to 5000 rpm. The 280-hp VR6 narrow-angle V6 engine returns and is mated to a refined six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic and sport mode.

Interior Design and Special Features

Every Passat, from the Value Edition to the 3.6 4Motion, presents a comfortable and upscale cabin. Fit and finish is superb and theres a feeling of precision to all the controls. Starting the car is a bit unusual but easier than the normal stick-the-key-in-and-twist drill. One simply inserts the "key" into an easily seen/accessed slot on the dash and pushes it to start the car. The wagon has 35.8 cubic feet of cargo room with the second-row seats up.

Safety Features

Most wagons are bought as family vehicles, so buyers pay particular attention to safety items. The Passat wagon has standard front-seat side airbags and side-curtain airbags, along with anti-lock brakes.

Theres no escaping gadgetry with a German car. The Passat wagon thus has a press-start ignition switch and push-button parking brake. Thank goodness it doesnt overwhelm drivers with the excessive gadgetry found in upscale German cars.

Impressive Turbo Engine

While the Passats 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine is fairly small, it is smooth and sophisticated. Its turbocharger helps it generate 200 horsepower and the engine works well with the wagons standard, responsive 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Passat 2.0L (2.0-liter) wagon provides an estimated 22 mpg in the city and 31 on the highway, although it calls for premium gasoline.

The wagons 3.6-liter V6 generates 280 horsepower. It provides 19 mpg in the city and 28 on highways with front-wheel drive and 18 and 27 with all-wheel drive. Volkswagen also recommends premium fuel for the V6, which is mainly for those who consistently carry heavy loads.

The entry Passat Value Edition 4-cylinder wagon costs $25,225, but buyers may as well plunk down a few more dollars and get the $26,175 trim level. It has front seat power recliners and lumbar adjustment, a trunk pass-through area and attractive alloy wheels.

Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options

The 2007 Volkswagen Passat is a midsize wagon with seating for five. There are four trim levels: Value Edition, 2.0T, 3.6 and 3.6 4Motion. Plenty of standard features come with the Value Edition, such as 16-inch steel wheels, a tilt-telescoping steering wheel, leatherette upholstery, air conditioning, an eight-speaker MP3/CD audio system, cruise control, power windows and locks, keyless entry, power heated mirrors and a trip computer. Step up to the 2.0T and a power driver seat, alloy wheels, rear-seat/trunk pass-through and chrome trim around the window frames are added. The 3.6 ices the cake with 17-inch wheels, an in-dash CD changer, satellite radio and a power sunroof. The Passat 3.6 4Motion adds all-wheel drive to the mix. Value Edition and 2.0T options include a sunroof, leather upholstery, an upgraded Dynaudio sound system and a navigation system. The 3.6s options include 18-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, adaptive bi-HID headlights, automatic dual-zone climate control, 12-way power front seats, and wood or aluminum interior trim.

Driving Impressions

A fully independent suspension along with an impressively rigid structure provides sportier handling than previous generations of the Passat, which were more cruiser than sport wagon. Although the chassis is still tuned more for comfort than attacking apexes, body roll is kept in check and the steering is responsive yet light, without feeling overboosted. Factor in the powerful engines and the Passat makes for one of the most entertaining rides in the midsize wagon segment.

Pros

Features for the price are excellent. Reviews have knocked the new passat for price but you are buying a bragain audi, interior fit and finish & features are on par with Audi. For example the std. power liftgate (optional on the 50K A6 avant). Crash tests are excellent. This car has huge brakes with good stopping power and the 3.6 is amazing, it will hang with some fast company, it also has a great deep exahust note. The bi-xenon headlights that steer into corners are a worthwhile option, they work very well. This car also has cornering lights that illuminate to the side if your steering wheel reaches a certain degree. The dynaudio system is smokin.

Cons

Interior is functional and made of high quality materials, just wish it had a little more of its own style, some styling is similar to the Jetta. Why no power seat adjust for front to back adjustment?

Overall Review

This is a car that inspires emotional attachment. The torque and power are unbelievable for such a small, economical engine. Economy is enhanced by the light weight (at least compared to the cargo volume). As much carrying capacity as a medium-sized SUV. 20 mpg in very short trip commuting, 26-27 in 80 mph cruising. Takes real attention to not drive too fast. Very pretty wagon (to my eye, at least). Im still not confident in VWs level of commitment to its customers. AC is definitely weaker than it should be, but my feeling is that if I take it to the dealer and complain, theyll park it by a wall and call me at the end of the day to say its normal. Already have had one experience of spending 3 hours ferrying the car back and forth to be told something is "normal", after having previously both phoned and visited to carefully explain my question.