The previous generation Passat was a competitive car but had grown a little tired. All-new for 2006, the Passat sedan offers a compelling list of equipment and performance in a package that provides more interior space than the diminutive Jetta. Power options include a 200hp 4-cylinder and 280hp V6. A six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic shift input is featured across the line, but the entry level model does offer a manual transmission. The 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is offered on the top-line Passat. The Passat is a solid car that deserves a hard look for shoppers of other premium mid-sized sedans like the Nissan Maxima. Although a fully-loaded Passat can reach $40k, 2.0T models offer a lot of car for a very small differential in price over reasonably-equipped Jettas. This means the Passat bears careful inspection by prospective buyers of the new Jetta.

What Changed:

All-new Passat is longer, wider, and taller than the model it replaces. Engine choices include a 200 hp, turbocharged four-cylinder and 280hp, 3.6L V6. The top-line model features 4Motion AWD.