The 2015 Passat features the choice of three engines. 1.8T-powered Passats come with a 170-horsepower, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or optional 6-speed automatic. TDI-equipped models get a 150-hp turbo-diesel 4-cylinder engine, while top-of-the-range 3.6L V6-equipped Passats come with a 280-horsepower, 'VR6' 6-cylinder engine. Both the TDI and VR6 engines come only with a 6-speed dual clutch DSG automatic transmission that can pull of remarkably quick shifts. The 1.8L model is intended to save fuel while maintaining the level of performance buyers are used to. It manages 28 mpg combined, two better than the old 2.5L 5-cylinder engine that came in pre-2014 vehicles. The VR6 is the performance pick of the lineup; it's especially strong, smooth and responsive. But the TDI has the potential to put smiles on lots of faces; with an EPA highway fuel economy rating of 43 mpg and an astonishing 236 pound-feet of peak torque, which means this engine also has power to making highway passing and long uphill grades seem easy. The new Passat's large cabin is spacious and feels airy, enhanced by an instrument panel that is designed to yield much of the space to the driver and front seat passenger. The backseat is very generously sized--with enough headroom and legroom for most adults--and getting in and out is easy. Across the model line, the Passat comes with a 60/40-split folding rear seatback. The S model, which starts at $21,340, comes better-equipped than many of the competition's base models. A Bluetooth hands-free interface, air conditioning, remote locking, power accessories, a trip computer, steering-wheel controls and a 6-speaker CD sound system are all standard. The SE model adds leatherette upholstery, a power driver's seat, heated front seats, power heated side mirrors, an upgraded sound system with touch screen and 17-inch alloy wheels. SEL models bring a much more upscale look and feel with footwell lighting, added chrome trim, sport seats, a backseat ski pass-through and a navigation system. The SEL Premium model gets fog lamps, seat memory settings, push-button start and full leather upholstery. Top 3.6 SE and SEL models also get a sunroof and chrome-tipped dual exhaust system in addition to the SEL Premium equipment. All Passat models include six standard airbags--including side-curtain airbags that cover front and rear occupants--plus standard electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes and hydraulic brake assist.
