Volkswagen Passat.(Family Sedans)(Evaluation)

The Passat continues to be defined by a solid, luxurious feel; comfortable, quiet ride; capable handling; and an interior that exudes quality. At more than $25,000, the GLS we tested costs the most of this group, though it has advanced standard safety gear unavailable on most competitors. Those strengths help the Passat remain a top choice. But its controls and cargo space didn't score quite as well as those in the Toyota Camry.

THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE

The Passat rides smoothly unladen and only slightly less so with a full load. The cabin is quiet except for some engine drone. Cornering was competent, with minimal body lean and quick, well-weighted steering. The Passat was secure and stable in the tight, fast corners of our track and handled our double-lane-change avoidance maneuver easily. A small, 37-foot turning circle makes it easily maneuverable.

The 170-hp, 1.8-liter turbocharged Four delivers lively performance but requires premium fuel. Our automatic-equipped version sometimes hesitated, particularly at low revs. While the transmission shifts smoothly, the standard five-speed manual improves the driving experience. Expect 23 mpg in mixed driving. The uplevel 2.8-liter V6 is strong and smooth. Braking was very good overall.

INSIDE THE CAR

The interior is worthy of a luxury car, with rich-feeling materials and meticulous detail. Multiple seat and steering-wheel adjustments should help nearly anyone find a good driving position. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, although the seat-adjustment knobs are stiff and hard to reach. The well-shaped rear bench accommodates three adults.

Controls are mostly well designed. But the power-mirror switch is poorly placed, and the audio switches are too small and flat. The manually operated climate-control system worked very well and provides cooling for the glove compartment.