What Is It?
2006 Volkswagen Passat

What's Special About It?
Volkswagen is busy. Close on the heels of the new VW Jetta, which appeared just two months ago at the Los Angeles auto show, is today's unveiling of the sixth-generation 2006 Volkswagen Passat.

Although it's longer (2.4 inches), wider (2.9 inches) and a smidge taller than the outgoing model, the new Passat rides on a wheelbase nearly identical in size to its predecessor. Weight also remains largely unchanged, though torsional rigidity has improved by over 50 percent. Most cabin measurements aren't available yet, but one area benefiting from the larger body is the trunk which now boasts just less than 20 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity. That's nearly 5 cubic feet more than the current Passat offers.

Two engines are available: a 197-horsepower direct-injection four-cylinder and a 246-hp direct-injection 3.2-liter V6. Both can be paired with either a standard six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic Tiptronic. The V6 will also be offered with an automatic dual-clutch gearbox (DSG).

For those who still question VW's decision to build its ultraluxury $70,000-plus Phaeton sedan, rejoice, as the affordable Passat now shares some of the Phaeton's advanced features. Technology new to the Passat includes an electronic parking brake, automatic adaptive cruise control, VW's draft-free Climatronic dual-zone climate control and Bi-Xenon adaptive headlamps which swivel to illuminate the road ahead. There's also a new keyless ignition system.

To provide maximum entertainment down the road, the Passat offers a 600-watt, 10-channel audio system, along with the option of in-car Bluetooth technology to allow mobile phone users to talk hands-free.

What's Edmunds' Take?
With so many new features available, the Passat has moved as far into luxury territory as possible without bearing an Audi badge. Although pricing won't be announced until the Passat goes on sale this fall, if VW maintains the current price gap between the Passat and the Audi A6, the newly luxurious Passat could be all that consumers need. — Kelly Toepke