 This Passat is nothing like the old model's build or design.  This is the best car I have ever owned.  The engine is very strong and the six speed tranny shifts smart and gets the power to the ground.  The near 4,000 lb. weight and 4Motion make it a very good snow car in Denver on stock all season tires.  It is a much better value than a BMW or an Audi.  The controls are great.  Subarus may be a better value, but the build and handling are superior in the German made VW vs. the Indiana made Subaru. With a light foot I have been getting 19 -20 mpg in town and 27 -28 mpg highway. 