2002 Volkswagen Passat W8 Sedan

Passat W8s include GLX-level interior amenities: leather upholstery, heated/power front-row seats, an 8-speaker Monsoon sound system, a power sunroof, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a self-dimming rearview mirror and more.

The Passat W8 is available equipped only with the 5-speed automatic transmission, which is appropriate for a vehicle looking to attract owners looking for luxury. The perk here is that VW automatics have the Tiptronic manual shift mode. Developed by Porsche, Tiptronic is one of the best systems for combining automatic and manual shifting into one package. If all the auto-shift systems were this good, it could spell the end of manual transmissions.


Though the W8 is larger than VW's six-cylinder engine, it weighs just 44 pounds more. That extra weight is nearly indistinguishable. Helping to make this added weight unnoticeable is Volkswagen's all-wheel drive system, 4Motion. Fitted as standard equipment on the W8 Passat, 4Motion adds incredible stability to both the sedan and wagon models.


The Passat performs extremely well in all environments, although we would like to have a little more low-end torque available during quick startups from stops. However, keeping the rpm range at midlevel provides ample torque from the W8 as we demanded power exiting the sharp turns on the country roads. The W8 impressed us with its response to the heavy load of our right foot.


Throughout its history in North America, Volkswagens have a reputation for being economical small cars that offer excellent reliability with basic creature comforts. Recently, VW has set out to expand that image. The Golf and New Beetle are based in economy with an element of fun mixed in. The Jetta moves just a bit uplevel, and the addition of a wagon version has added a measure of practicality. The Passat shows the move toward luxury while continuing to be a bit practical. That said, the Passat W8 proves that VW can have luxury and performance wrapped into one package.


The Passat W8 is just the beginning as Volkswagen continues its transformation—or more accurately expansion—toward offering a wider range of automobiles that quench our thirst for motoring pleasure. (www.vw.com)