Ich bin ein Mainstreamer Volkswagen tried building cars in the U.S. once before, and it didn't end well for the Rabbits assembled in Westmoreland, PA. "In Vietnam, 'Westmoreland' was a synonym for boundless optimisim in the face of raw facts. The same principle applies here," said my friend Mike, explaining why his Rabbits at the time were imported from Das Vaterland. The real problem with American-made VWs wasn't Pennsylvania or a self-deluding General, Mike continued, but "mushbucket suspensions, chintzy build quality, frou-frou styling compromises," all resulting in a sub-par ... Read More

Vital Stats

Engine:: 2.5L I5
Power:: 170 HP / 177 LB-FT
Transmission:: 6-Speed Auto
MSRP:: $30,665 as tested

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Quick Spin: 2013 Volkswagen Passat TDI 1355947140

Can you name a fun-to-drive sedan with a manual transmission that can transport five adults and their luggage comfortably while sipping fuel at the rate of 50 mpg? The answer is the Volkswagen Passat TDI – a German antonym for "range anxiety." The past forty years have seen the Volkswagen Passat evolve from a three-door hatchback with a 1.5-liter ...