The 2017 Volkswagen Passat R-line is a safe, reliable sedan with great tech features. The Passat’s simple and timeless aesthetics have a wide appeal.
The 2017 Passat gets a lot right by offering the features for which most shoppers are looking.The Passat is available in S, SE, and SEL trims. R-Line models have packages available to give a more sporty appearance, placing it somewhere between the S and SE models.
The 2017 Passat is a comfortable family shuttle thanks to its roomy backseat and a trunk big enough to fit a family’s worth of luggage.
As far as styling, the 2017 Passat uses high quality materials throughout such as tightly grained plastics, wood grain or metallic treatments. As an added bonus, VW has upgraded the Passat’s infotainment system to include touch controls and proximity sensing.
Upgrades feature telematics, connected via VW Car-Net, and integrated apps for smartphones including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink. However, the base S comes standard with several features which include, but are not limited to: 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, full power accessories, a rearview camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, height-adjustable front seats with manual lumbar adjustment in the driver’s seat, 60/40-split folding rear seats, cloth upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a collision mitigation system with automating braking, the five-inch touchscreen, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, a USB port and an auxiliary audio jack.
As is expected from a Passat, highway manners are excellent, too. It rides smoothly and quietly. The cabin keeps out most of the wind and road noise, and the front seats are supportive enough that they should keep you comfy on a long road trip. This year’s Passat has earned an overall safety rating of five stars by the NHTSA. The Passat definitely gives you bang for your buck.
This sedan is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which comes standard on all trims. The Passat’s engine is rated at 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. In Edmunds performance testing, a Passat with this engine accelerated from zero to 60 mph in a quick 7.7 seconds. EPA fuel economy estimates for the 1.8-liter stand at 23 city/34 highway, a decent mileage estimate.
However, should you want more power, there is a 3.6-liter V6 available on the SE and SEL Premium trim levels. The V6 produces 280 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque. In Edmunds testing, a Passat with the 3.6-liter V6 made the sprint from zero to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds.
This engine is rated at 23 mpg in combined driving (20 city/28 highway).
For 2017, the VW Passat has seen a few upgrades but overall, has remained largely unchanged from last year’s model, which is for the best because this year’s Passat is provides a smooth quiet ride with several technology features. The 2017 Passat may not have the most striking looks, but its modern and simple appearance is sure to garner widespread appeal.
The MSRP for the 2017 Passat starts at $22,400.
