The 2012 Volkswagen Passat

German automaker Volkswagen has completely redesigned the Passat midsize sedan. The car was designed in Germany, but it is manufactured in Chattanooga, Tennessee and has been designed to suit American needs and wants. The result is a compelling sedan for both families and those who want a car with more room and higher-end features.

Inside, both front and rear occupants enjoy ample room all around. Compared to the 2011 Passat, rear passengers enjoy an additional three inches of legroom, meaning even tall adults can sit comfortably in the back. Road noise is minimal, even while traveling at freeway speeds. Interior surfaces and gauges have a higher-end look and feel than other midsize sedans. VW also offers an optional Fender audio system that has been designed specifically for the Passat’s interior, providing crystal clear sound. The additional space does not stop at the Passat’s trunk, where 15.9 cubic feet provides ample space to stow groceries, luggage or any number of other items. If the trunk does not provide enough space, the rear seats fold down , allowing the cargo area to extend into the backseat area.

Volkswagen provides buyers with plenty of power train choices for the 2012 Passat. 2.5L models come with a 2.5 liter five cylinder engine that produces up to 170 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. Both a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic transmission are available. Fuel economy estimates are 22 mpg for city driving and 32 mpg for highway driving. TDI models come with a 2.0 liter four cylinder diesel engine that works with a turbo to produce 140 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. Buyers can choose between either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automated manual transmission, with fuel mileage estimated at 31 mpg city and 43 mpg highway. 3.6L models come with the largest and most powerful engine, a 3.6 liter V6 that pumps out 280 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission is the only option, with fuel mileage coming in at 20 mpg in city driving and 28 mpg in highway driving.

The 2012 Volkswagen Passat comes with several other features to make owning one a pleasurable experience. Optional fog lights turn with the wheel, providing illumination around curves in the road at night. Remote start is also available, allowing the car’s interior to heat up or cool down before occupants get inside. If the Passat is involved in a collision, the Intelligent Crash Response System turns on the hazard lights to warn other cars on the road, unlocks the doors to allow rescuers easy access and shuts off all power to the fuel pump to prevent a fire from starting.