Some years ago I had a chance to be at a VW drive event. The event took place at Volkswagen’s headquarters in Northern Virginia. At the event, I got to drive the latest edition of the Jetta.
I really loved the cockpit, the integrated technology, and especially the new design. So, getting a week in the all-new Passat was a thrill to me. The all-new Passat builds on the design of the Jetta but it’s in a larger form factor and, more muscular.
This brings a better appreciation of the design inspiration. I got a chance to drive the 2.0.T SE. It features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 174 horsepower and 206 lb.-ft of torque. It gets an EPA rated 34 miles per gallon on the highway.
In this model, you also get a touchscreen display for VW Car-Net. Car-Net has an App-Connect feature that integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You also get a lot of safety and convenient features. Forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assistance, and more are included.
These are standard options on the SE model which is exceptional. Though it’s classified as a mid-size I found the Passat 2.0 SE to feel more like a full-size vehicle that could comfortably seat five adults. Base price on the 2.0. SE is $25,845. The only option on the model I drove was a sunroof package and a beautiful aurora red metallic exterior. These options brought the delivered price to $28,155. For more information visit. www.Vw.com.
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