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The 2008 Volkswagen Passat Wagon is the more versatile version of the all-new Passat sedan. Unlike the sedan, which competes against such benchmarks as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, the Volkswagen Passat Wagon has few (if any) direct competitors. The interior is a cut or two above that of any comparably equipped wagon in its price range and its handling characteristics are completely European sedan-like. Whether you're looking for a versatile sedan substitute or a more efficient, more enthusiastic SUV replacement, the Volkswagen Passat Wagon won't disappoint. Combine the cargo versatility of a mid-size SUV with the driving dynamics and fuel economy of a mid-size sedan, build it with premium-like features and materials, then adorn it with a starting sticker price in the mid-$20,000 range and you've got a vehicle with an undeniable rational appeal.
New trim names are Turbo, Komfort, Lux and VR6. New standard features include a 12-way power driver's seat, manual side sunshades and a leather steering wheel and shift knob. The 4MOTION all-wheel drive and adaptive bi-xenon headlamps are standard on the VR6. Inside the Volkswagen Passat Wagon's refined passenger cabin you'll find a combination of quality materials and dynamic design that's at once both relaxing and invigorating. Interior trim options include wood, aluminum or composite, and standard leatherette seating gives even the base model an upscale feel. Neat features include an electronic key and electronic push-button parking brake, plus a cleverly placed umbrella holder and two cooled storage compartments. A 60/40-split seat back functionally extends the Passat Wagon's deep but narrow cargo area.
As is the case with so many new models nowadays, the Volkswagen Passat Wagon has grown in size, making it the largest wagon in Volkswagen's fleet. The wagon shares its distinctive face and some sheetmetal with the sedan, but the design is cohesive enough that it in no way comes across as an afterthought. Standard roof rails are a wagon exclusive, while mirror-integrated turn signals are a nice touch. Wheel options range from 16-inch alloys on the Turbo to 18-inch alloys available only on V6 models, which also feature twin single exhaust pipes flanking the left and right sides of the vehicle. The big VW badge placed prominently on the back doubles as the rear hatch release. |
