2009 Volkswagen Passat Wagon Review
For 2009, the Passat receives a few changes, one of the most noticeable being the discontinuation of the VR6 model, as well as the all-wheel drive option. For 2009, the Passat wagon comes in a single flavor, with a single engine and transmission option. The Passat is now powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 200 hp, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission (the manual transmission is no longer available). The Passat is available in front-wheel drive only and is designed to compete with cars such as the Toyota Camry, the Hyundai Sonata and the Mazda MAZDA5.
The 2009 Volkswagen Passat wagon does offer a few additional features, the most notable of which is the hard drive for storing music and the navigation system. Other features include ABS and an antiskid system that help make the vehicle a safer place for your family.
2009 Volkswagen Passat Wagon Performance
The engine, while small, is more than capable of moving the Passat around town. Acceleration from a stop is decent and the vehicle also enjoys plenty of power for highway driving, ensuring that you can pass slower vehicles with relative ease. With an estimated 0 - 60 mph time of just over 7 seconds, the vehicle doesn't win any speed records, but it is certainly faster than other models within the class. Fuel consumption is also better than some, though it doesn't top the class. The engine averages 27 mpg for highway driving and near 20 mpg for all in-city driving.
Drivers will enjoy the steering and handling, which provides plenty of road feel and is weighted decently. The vehicle also has plenty of braking power, though the brakes are not oversized. While the vehicle is very stable at highway speeds, road imperfections are translated to the cabin without much dampening. The Passat wagon also offers a firm, confident ride.
Finally, the 2009 Volkswagen Passat wagon offers a pleasantly quiet ride, but rough road surfaces do induce a bit of road noise. Wind noise is muted at all speeds and the engine offers a pleasant growl under harsh acceleration.
2009 Volkswagen Passat Wagon Interior
Consumers will be a bit confused by the interior of the Passat. While the high quality materials used are certainly in keeping with VW's image, the low grade plastics utilized in some parts are obvious. This strange combination does detract a bit from enjoying the vehicle as much as possible. One obvious complaint about the interior is the location of the gauges for the driver. These are difficult to read, due to the angle and the specific location, while the HVAC controls are also hard to reach. The addition of the navigation system does not complicate too many other controls, though VW should have invested in a better screen.
The front seats are quite roomy, offering plenty of space for tall drivers and passengers. However, the seats are shaped oddly and do not offer the best thigh and lumbar support for long drives. Visibility is excellent from all areas in the front, though, with no blockage from roof pillars or headrests. The rear seats offer more than ample legroom, though tall passengers will find the accommodations a bit cramped for their liking.
Cargo room on the Passat wagon is excellent, with tons of rear space for driver's enjoyment. Cabin storage throughout the vehicle is good, better than many others in the class, ensuring that you can stow what you need, when you need to.
2009 Volkswagen Passat Wagon Safety Features
The NHTSA has given the Passat 4 stars for safety, which makes it a very safe vehicle. In addition, you will find that the vehicle provides plenty of safety features, as well. Standard on the 2009 model, you will find front side airbags, dual front airbags, a tire pressure monitor, an antiskid system, daytime running lights, an emergency trunk release, a brake assist system, side curtain air bags and 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, as well.
Summary
The 2009 Volkswagen Passat wagon is an excellent vehicle for those seeking a midsize vehicle with plenty of cargo space, without shelling out the price for an SUV. The Passat offers all the room you will find in higher priced SUVS, without the exorbitant fuel consumption and even gives you plenty of power to get around town. From the busy professional to the soccer mom, the Passat wagon has much to offer today's modern consumer and can ensure safety and a modicum of comfort during most types of driving.