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.
Model/Trim/Package | Engine | | | Original MSRP
|
Passat | 2.0l I4 (200-bhp) | A6 | FWD | $24,035 |
Passat | 3.6l V6 (280-bhp) | A6 | FWD | $29,960 |
Passat | 3.6l V6 (280-bhp) | A6 | AWD | $31,910 |
Passat | 2.0l I4 (200-bhp) | M6 | FWD | $22,960 |