Image and vehicle data supplied by JATO Dynamics Ltd.
2006 Volkswagen Passat Sedan
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What’s New?
The 2006 Volkswagen Passat marks the launch of an all-new and sixth-generation version of the German automaker’s mid-sized, family-oriented passenger car. The Passat will be available as a sedan or station wagon, and with front- or all-wheel drive.
Overview
The 2006 Volkswagen Passat is some 2.5 inches longer, three inches wider, nearly one-half of an inch taller, and has a track (the distance between the two wheels on the same axle; i.e., the two front wheels) that is 1.5 inches wider than its predecessor. It also has a wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear axles) that’s more than two inches longer than the previous model. These new dimensions should enhance not only the quality of the vehicle’s ride and handling, but also of its comfort by providing an additional 2.4 inches of rear-seat leg room.
Standard equipment includes tire-pressure monitors, tilt and telescoping steering column, power windows, and much more. Major safety features include eight air bags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control technology. The Passat also has active headrests to help mitigate whiplash injuries in an accident. To help avoid accidents, the Passat features a special brake-disc cleaning system that periodically activates in wet weather to make sure moisture doesn’t build up on the brake discs and to shorten stopping distances in inclement weather. Available options include a 600-watt Dynaudio sound system produced by a Danish company that specializes in producing equipment for recording studios.
Spurring on the Passat’s dynamic capabilities are two engine choices. Available at launch is the 2.0L, turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 200 hp. Later in the 2006 model year, Volkswagen will offer its narrow-angle V-6 engine that will provide 280 hp. Both engines send its power to the wheels through a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.
The Competition
The Volkswagen Passat competes in the Midsize Conventional segment, where the latest safety features, room for the family, and fuel economy are important factors in the decision-making process.
The Toyota Camry continues to outsell the competition, selling 376,803 units during calendar year 2005, according to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report.SM It is followed by the Honda Accord (369,293 units sold in 2005), with the Nissan Altima (255,371) ranking next on the sales chart. Volkswagen sold 49,233 Passats in 2005.
The 2006 Volkswagen Passat marks the launch of an all-new and sixth-generation version of the German automaker’s mid-sized, family-oriented passenger car. The Passat will be available as a sedan or station wagon, and with front- or all-wheel drive.
Overview
The 2006 Volkswagen Passat is some 2.5 inches longer, three inches wider, nearly one-half of an inch taller, and has a track (the distance between the two wheels on the same axle; i.e., the two front wheels) that is 1.5 inches wider than its predecessor. It also has a wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear axles) that’s more than two inches longer than the previous model. These new dimensions should enhance not only the quality of the vehicle’s ride and handling, but also of its comfort by providing an additional 2.4 inches of rear-seat leg room.
Standard equipment includes tire-pressure monitors, tilt and telescoping steering column, power windows, and much more. Major safety features include eight air bags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control technology. The Passat also has active headrests to help mitigate whiplash injuries in an accident. To help avoid accidents, the Passat features a special brake-disc cleaning system that periodically activates in wet weather to make sure moisture doesn’t build up on the brake discs and to shorten stopping distances in inclement weather. Available options include a 600-watt Dynaudio sound system produced by a Danish company that specializes in producing equipment for recording studios.
Spurring on the Passat’s dynamic capabilities are two engine choices. Available at launch is the 2.0L, turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 200 hp. Later in the 2006 model year, Volkswagen will offer its narrow-angle V-6 engine that will provide 280 hp. Both engines send its power to the wheels through a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.
The Competition
The Volkswagen Passat competes in the Midsize Conventional segment, where the latest safety features, room for the family, and fuel economy are important factors in the decision-making process.
The Toyota Camry continues to outsell the competition, selling 376,803 units during calendar year 2005, according to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report.SM It is followed by the Honda Accord (369,293 units sold in 2005), with the Nissan Altima (255,371) ranking next on the sales chart. Volkswagen sold 49,233 Passats in 2005.
