What Is the 2014 Volkswagen Passat?
The 2014 Volkswagen Passat is a full-size sedan with seating for five. It's offered in five main trim levels: S, Wolfsburg Edition, SE, Sport and SEL Premium. All versions have front-wheel drive. Competing sedans include the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and Kia Optima, among others.
What's New on the 2014 Volkswagen Passat?
For 2014, the Volkswagen Passat gets a 170-horsepower, turbocharged gas 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, replacing the 2.5-liter five-cylinder. The SE and higher trim levels now get a backup camera, and the SE also comes with two-tone seats. The Sport trim is new to the Passat lineup.
Volkswagen's Car-Net telematics system is also available and includes roadside assistance, crash notification and stolen vehicle assistance. Speed alerts, a vehicle health report and an improved point-of-interest service for the optional navigation system are also included withCar-Net. Car-Net's features can be managed via a smartphone app or web portal.
How Does the 2014 Volkswagen Passat Compare to Other Full-Size Sedans?
The Passat isn't particularly techy or eye-catching, but it's practical, competitively priced and roomy. One of its biggest selling points is its spacious backseat with 39.1 inches of legroom. To put that in context, the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima offer 34.6 inches and 34.7 inches, respectively.
What Features in the 2014 Volkswagen Passat Are Most Important?
Under the hood of the 2014 Passat you'll find a 170-hp, turbocharged gas 1.8-liter four-cylinder gas engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Two optional engines are available: a 140-hp, turbo-diesel 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a 280-hp, gas 3.6-liter V-6. The gas engines can run on E15 fuel. Available transmissions include a six-speed automatic, a five-speed manual, a six-speed manual and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic.
Significant standard features include 16-inch wheels, air conditioning, a CD stereo with auxiliary input and Bluetooth streaming audio, cruise control and a 60/40-split, folding backseat. Available options include a power moonroof, foglights and a navigation system.
The Passat also comes standard with antilock brakes, an electronic stability system, side-impact airbags for the front seats and side curtain airbags for both front and rear seats.
Should I Buy the 2014 Volkswagen Passat?
Overall, the 2014 Volkswagen Passat offers good value for families. Interior quality is impressive, as is passenger space throughout the cabin. On the road, it delivers a comfortable, composed ride, although the steering lacks road feel. There's hesitation from the optional dual-clutch automatic transmission, and if you opt for the V-6, plan to purchase premium gas.
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