The 2001.5 Volkswagen Passat re-fashions its exterior presentation (only roof and doors stay unchanged) in a stylized statement. Beyond the catchy cosmetic appeal, the four-door sedan packages an attentive interior. Things like the blue/purple-hue nighttime backdrop to the instrument gauge clusters (easy on the eyes); heated front seats (cozy on cold days); remote fuel door and trunk release levers on driver’s door with valet lockout (convenience paired with safety); and rear seat fold-down center armrest with cupholder/storage zone (comfort for all). The sedan’s tame ride is not without on-command power via a standard turbocharged 1.8-liter 4-cylinder 170 horsepower engine. (A 6-cylinder 190 horsepower engine is optional.)

The top-of-the-line GLX trimmed Passat is a loaded vehicle, featuring such staple appointments as air conditioning (with rear vents), electronic cruise control, power heated side mirrors, tinted glass, fog lamps, and self-dimming rearview mirror. Passat doesn’t offer a CD player as standard fare on any of its trim versions. Side airbags for driver and front seat passenger and side curtain airbags (for head and upper torso) are standard. Base Passat GLS sedan’s suggested price is $21,750. Mileage estimates are 22 city/31 highway when equipped with 5-speed manual transmission.
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