The Volkswagen Passat was launched in 1973. This elegant and smartly designed car continues to be the favorite choice of most Americans. The 2008 Volkswagen Passat is a sophisticated, roomy and comfortable midsize car with a high-quality cabin. It is available in both wagon and sedan body styles. It delivers a spirited performance and competent handling; and makes for an impressive driving experience. But the Passat models with larger wheels and tires tend to be noisy on the road.

Available in four trims - Turbo, Komfort, Lux and VR6 the 2008 Volkswagen Passat comes with a choice of two engines. The 2.0-liter, turbo-charged, four-cylinder engine generates 200 horsepower. The 3.6-liter V-6 generates 280 horsepower. The four-cylinder sedans can be ordered with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The Passat has a powertrain warranty of 60 months or 60,000 miles. The sedan with the manual transmission gives 21 miles per gallon in the city and 29 mpg on the highway; while the automatic transmission gives 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

The base Turbo trim has 16-inch alloy wheels, leatherette upholstery, power driver seat, a telescoping steering wheel, air conditioning, CD stereo with auxiliary audio jack, cruise control, full power accessories, heated exterior mirrors, a trip computer, and rear-seat sunshades. The Komfort gets 17-inch wheels, a sunroof, in-dash CD changer, satellite radio, upgraded interior lighting, and double-blade front sun visors. The Lux has automatic headlights, leather upholstery, power front-passenger seat, driver-seat memory, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and front and rear parking sensors. The high-line Passat VR6 adds 18-inch wheels, adaptive bi-xenon headlights, sport seats, and an upgraded Dynaudio sound system.

The Volkswagen Passat comes with a full suite of safety equipment. Standard safety features on all models include front air bags; seat-mounted, side-impact air bags for driver and front passenger; side curtain air bags; four-wheel disc brakes and an anti-lock brake system; speed-variable electromechanical steering; electronic stability control; several traction control systems, including anti-slip regulation (ASR); tire-pressure monitor; and a security system.