Just sitting there, the Passat looks more substantial, and its overall design has assumed a certain gravitas befitting the maturity of the car's technology. This includes a wider track (by a significant 1.5 inches), major revisions to the front MacPherson strut-type suspension, and new multilink rear geometry. The steering is now electromechanical and is the best VW has ever given us; the brakes are big 12.3-inch vented discs in front, 11-inch solid discs in back. Standard electronic chassis aids include ABS, electronic stability, brake assist, and an electronic differential lock.
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