Topic: Test Drive: 2016 Volkswagen Passat Highline

[Autos_Editor]

Smooth operator.
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[JohnnyMac]

One thing I dislike about the new Passat is the manual transmission is no longer offered on the middle or upper trim levels.  This is disappointing and seems like less manufacturers are offering this, I can only think of the Mazda 6, Honda Accord and Subaru Legacy offering a manual in higher trim levels.

I'd like to read a review of the VR6 model Passat.  It's a rare bird indeed and never seems to be written about.  Too bad it didn't offer 4motion AWD, that would probably boost sales a bit of that package.

[SKYMTL]

Without the TDI in there these VW's are bland, boring, also-ran cars with really no stand-out features to put them ahead of similarly-priced Toyotas, Hondas, Nissans and Mazdas.  Then again, maybe that understated look is what some folks are looking for. 

[Sir Osis of Liver]

Without the TDI in there these VW's are bland, boring, also-ran cars with really no stand-out features to put them ahead of similarly-priced Toyotas, Hondas, Nissans and Mazdas.  Then again, maybe that understated look is what some folks are looking for.

I prefer understatement to flamboyance, so I guess I fit the category.

But the turbo 1.8L is a nice engine, especially with the manual as mine is equipped. It's also got a huge interior and trunk. Not headline grabbing, but appreciated when needed. Outward visibility is excellent also, which is becoming increasingly rare, even in midsize sedans.

It does everything else as well as the competition.

[Sir Osis of Liver]

One thing you could say about the Passat’s heroically innocuous styling: it’s a fine choice for would-be felons. “Witnesses describe the getaway vehicle as, uh… car-like.”

 

[OliverD]

I prefer understatement to flamboyance, so I guess I fit the category.

The B5 was a great example of an understated car that still had a unique look.

[JRM]

Without the TDI in there these VW's are bland, boring, also-ran cars with really no stand-out features to put them ahead of similarly-priced Toyotas, Hondas, Nissans and Mazdas.  Then again, maybe that understated look is what some folks are looking for.

Have you driven one?  It's miles ahead of the Camry and Altima, with lots of low end torque, an excellent ride and good handling and steering.  Plus the interior is very well executed and near luxury quality.  And even the base model is better equipped than most of the competition's.   The biggest plus for me is the understated (not bland like the Accord) styling, but then I'm not a look at me kinda guy.  The Mazda6 puts styling above practicality. i.e tight fitting interior and cargo.  So where does the Passat not stand out?

[Sir Osis of Liver]

I prefer understatement to flamboyance, so I guess I fit the category.

The B5 was a great example of an understated car that still had a unique look.

I'm obviously biased, but I prefer the current look to the look of the B5.

[ChaosphereIX]

it is a car.

this thing deserves no more description.

God it is boring.

[Noto]

I LOVE this car, especially in Trendline trim with a 6MT.

[Sir Osis of Liver]

it is a car.

this thing deserves no more description.

God it is boring.

 

[Sir Osis of Liver]

I LOVE this car, especially in Trendline trim with a 6MT.

 

[mlin32]

^That animated GIF made my day.

[greengs]

Without the TDI in there these VW's are bland, boring, also-ran cars with really no stand-out features to put them ahead of similarly-priced Toyotas, Hondas, Nissans and Mazdas.  Then again, maybe that understated look is what some folks are looking for.

I don't know about that.  A base VW Trendline Golf 1.8T is a very nice overall package.  In that 20-22k range I think it would be a front runner for me if I were shopping in the segment.  I don't think it will be long before they take away that engine (and replace it with 1.4T) in the lower trims though as nothing really compares in the segment. 

[SKYMTL]

Without the TDI in there these VW's are bland, boring, also-ran cars with really no stand-out features to put them ahead of similarly-priced Toyotas, Hondas, Nissans and Mazdas.  Then again, maybe that understated look is what some folks are looking for.

Have you driven one?  It's miles ahead of the Camry and Altima, with lots of low end torque, an excellent ride and good handling and steering.  Plus the interior is very well executed and near luxury quality.  And even the base model is better equipped than most of the competition's.   The biggest plus for me is the understated (not bland like the Accord) styling, but then I'm not a look at me kinda guy.  The Mazda6 puts styling above practicality. i.e tight fitting interior and cargo.  So where does the Passat not stand out?

I have actually.  It made me feel older than I already am. 

[Sir Osis of Liver]

Without the TDI in there these VW's are bland, boring, also-ran cars with really no stand-out features to put them ahead of similarly-priced Toyotas, Hondas, Nissans and Mazdas.  Then again, maybe that understated look is what some folks are looking for.

I don't know about that.  A base VW Trendline Golf 1.8T is a very nice overall package.  In that 20-22k range I think it would be a front runner for me if I were shopping in the segment.  I don't think it will be long before they take away that engine (and replace it with 1.4T) in the lower trims though as nothing really compares in the segment.

The base Passat felt better than the Accord, especially the seats. The mouse fur seats on the base Accord belong to the 1980s.

The Mazda6 looks nice on the outside, but I don't get on well with dash iPads, and it was generally noisier.

The Camry didn't offer a manual, so wasn't considered, much like the Fusion and Malibu.

[ChaosphereIX]

it is a car.

this thing deserves no more description.

God it is boring.

 

heh ok will do Sir

Mazda would be my purchase in this segment...

[Ex-airbalancer]

You should just buy what I like 😃


Mark

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[mlin32]

The euro version of this car is much better looking and a lot more upscale while maintaining that conservative approach to design.  They should have just brought that version here.

It only looks upscale when optioned properly. I saw plenty of bland Passats there too, with 16" steel wheels, flat black paint, and halogen tail/headlamps. Like our company fleet cars......

Plus, a lot of people on this side of the Atlantic wouldn't pay for the B8 Passat, in the same way many didn't want to pay for the B6 Passat.

[Sir Osis of Liver]

The euro version of this car is much better looking and a lot more upscale while maintaining that conservative approach to design.  They should have just brought that version here.

It only looks upscale when optioned properly. I saw plenty of bland Passats there too, with 16" steel wheels, flat black paint, and halogen tail/headlamps. Like our company fleet cars......

Plus, a lot of people on this side of the Atlantic wouldn't pay for the B8 Passat, in the same way many didn't want to pay for the B6 Passat.

 

Edit. Using the French website, a Passat Trendline with the 1.4L TSI and aluminum rims runs €26,250.00 or $C39,481.98. I'm not sure if that includes taxes.