2017 Volkswagen Passat review

1. Thoughtful touches

It's the little things in the 2017 Passat that make help make it a pleasure to drive or ride in. The available hands-free trunk opener makes life easier when you're carrying sports gear or groceries; all you need to do is wave your foot under the back of the car and the trunk will pop open. As a standard feature, you also get 60/40 split-folding rear seats to expand your luggage capacity or carry longer items. The driver's seat has standard adjustable lumbar support so you can make your driving position as comfortable as possible. For longer journeys, lookout for a 2017 Passat with these available features: leather seating, heated front and rear seats, and memory functions on the driver's seat.

2. Tech-rich

If technology is important to you, the 2017 Volkswagen Passat is a great choice. There's a whole host of available features to keep an eye out for. The Car-Net^® App-Connect^® allows you to connect your phone to the car and access music, maps, messaging, and more via the Passat's dash. The available Fender premium audio system adds yet another dimension to the Passat—it's perfect for long road trips where you need a soundtrack. There are some great standard tech features, too, including Bluetooth^® streaming, and a rearview camera.

3. Driver-assistance features

The front assist features on the 2017 Passat come as standard. This gives you forward-collision warning if you get too close to the car in front and will activate autonomous emergency braking, too, if needed. If you like the idea of these assistance features, there are even more available including a blind spot monitor, rear traffic alert, and lane-departure warning. There are even some cool available features to help you park, including steering assist and distance control for those times when you need to navigate into a tight space.

4. Two engine choices

The standard engine in the 2017 Volkswagen Passat is a 1.8L four-cylinder engine with 170 hp. Because it's turbocharged, you get a spirited drive and there's even a sport mode if you really want to have some fun. Need a bit more power? The 3.6L V6 engine offers 280 hp and is paired with an automatic DSG performance gearbox. You also get steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters with the V6, giving you more control on mountain roads or while passing other cars on the highway.

5. Sporty touches

The Passat might make a great commuter or family car but that doesn't mean it can't be sporty, too. There are a number of available interior and exterior touches that give the 2017 Passat a slightly more athletic look. Pair this with the V6 engine and you've got the makings of an understated yet fun sports car. Most of these features are standard with the V6 and optional with the 1.8L engine. Look out for sporty R-line touches, sports seats, and more.