The practical VW Passat has been a solid defender of the saloon car in a world full of SUV’s. In estate car (station wagon or Variant) form it is even more practical, doing a great job of being an ideal premium car for business or family as well as being a workhorse when required.
About The Passat Variant
This car is enormously practical and pleasingly comfortable but the unique selling point of the VW Passat is that it can be all things to all men. On board technology will vary according to age but the Passat is sure to feature whatever was current at the time. This model has been around for more than 40 years and through eight generations, during which time it’s grown noticeably bigger and more upmarket offering a capacious boot (trunk) and a high standard of interior and exterior trim to rival the best of the prestige European rivals.
There’s a choice of trim specifications and a wide variety of engine options, although cars being imported from Japan will largely have the frugal and responsive 1.4 litre petrol engine, although other power plants are available. There’s a diesel version too and at the top of the range sits the mighty V6.
On The Inside
It’s a smart-looking interior without being too fussy or chintzy. The locations of the controls are easy to get used to either on the dashboard or on the smart centre console. Some versions will have satellite navigation as standard.
Comfort is key here, the seating designed to cosset the passengers over long distances. For convenience, there are loads of cubby spaces including a cubby box beneath the front armrest. Some models will feature a USB socket in there. All the door bins are well-shaped and lined to stop things rattling around. There are even pockets on the back of the front seats, just like your favourite airline.
The boot is a major benefit: It’s cavernous and will hold, on recent models, a massive 650 litres and that’s even before the split rear seats are deployed for long or awkward items. Even the earlier versions of this car will accommodate over 600 litre of luggage. Some versions will have an electric tailgate. This is a safe car too; the Volkswagen Passat is routinely awarded the full five-star Euro NCAP. As would be expected from this German manufacturer there’s a huge amount of safety equipment on offer across the range; safety levels are very high indeed. Family motorists will appreciate this.
On The Road
One of the biggest aids to the Passat’s level of comfort is the suspension setup. Not too soft or too firm, it absorbs bumps well and avoids transmitting the surface of lesser quality roads into the cabin.
Like the saloon sibling, the Volkswagen Passat Estate car’s handling has two jobs to do. The car corners well; there’s little body roll and sedate driving will pay dividends. The up side of the handling is the great comfort levels that the absence of over-enthusiastic driving will enhance. The point is that overall this station wagon feels safe and assured, composed and refined.
Although this car is a German model, it has proved popular in Japan, as indeed have most Volkswagen vehicles. MHH Japanese Cars offer a comprehensive service importing from Japan with detailed listings. Please check out our website and find the right vehicle for your needs.
