As expected in a Passat, active safety also is tantamount to the development of Volkswagens, and the 2006 Passat is no exception and arguably among the leaders in its segments in offering a list of performance items that can help avoid accidents in the first place, including the stability and surefootedness of a precise-handling front-drive sedan, with standard four-wheel disc ABS brakes that are coupled with a sophisticated Engine Braking Assist system.
Another major technical advancement in the new Passat is a standard electromechanical power steering system that can help assist with straight-ahead driving adjustments when necessary—an example of this could be freeway driving through strong crosswinds. All Passats come standard with an Electronic Stabilization Program—an active safety item that is being recognized through independent research to be an increasing vital safety feature – Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) and Electronic Differential Locking (EDL). Of course, later in 2006 all wheel drive comes with 4MOTION.
The new Passat employs an advanced version of the tried-and-true independent McPherson strut architecture. The car’s strut-type axle creates a very desirable direct steering ratio, a high level of transversal axle rigidity and a low tendency to allow body roll on tight turns. The Passat’s precise handling is only one attribute of this front suspension; the design also helps enhance its ride by optimizing springs, separately mounting springs and dampers, improving mounting points for the lower wishbones, and using twin-sleeve shock absorbers. All of these features mean that there’s less noise during varied driving conditions and on multiple surfaces.
At the rear, the new Passat now is equipped with an advanced multi-link independent rear suspension. This feature promises to help the Passat set a new standard in its market segment by providing an ideal balance of sporty driving dynamics and ride sophistication. This fully independent four-link suspension, with coil springs, telescopic shocks and stabilizer bar, also allowed the designers and engineers to create more utilitarian space and practicality including a wider luggage compartment.
Handling performance is honed to perfection by a new electromechanical power rack-and-pinion steering system that offers an extremely good "center feel" and contributes significantly to the new car’s confident-feeling stability. Unlike some similar systems found on luxury cars, the new Passat’s function varies the steering assist based on the car’s speed and other driving factors. This gives the Passat driver a desirable connected-to-the-road feeling but also provides the added capability of active-return steering and straight-ahead driving correction assistance.
As expected, Volkswagen is backing the new Passat with a comprehensive warranty that includes a bumper-to-bumper New Vehicle Limited Warranty for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first, with wear-and-tear items and adjustments covered during the initial 12 months or 12,000 miles. Additional coverage is provided by 24-hour roadside assistance for four years with unlimited mileage, a five year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty and a Limited Warranty against Corrosion Perforation for 12 years with unlimited mileage.
Here is a list of some of the new Passat’s latest developments:
-All-new sixth generation Passat – completely redesigned and restyled inside and out
-Standard 2.0T turbocharged four-cylinder with direct injection, 200 hp, 207 lbs.ft. torque
-Available 3.6L V6, 280 hp, 265 lbs.-ft. torque with standard six-speed automatic
transmission with Tiptronic (4 quarter 2006)
-2.4” more rear legroom than previous generation (37.7” vs. 35.3”)
-1.5” wider track front and rear (61.1” vs. 59.6”)
-3.0” wider body width (71.7” vs. 68.7”)
-106.7” wheelbase (106.7” vs. 106.4”)
-Overall length of 188.2” (188.2” vs. 185.2”)
-Six-speed manual transmission, optional six-speed automatic with Tiptronic on 2.0T
-A/C standard on all models
-Dual-zone automatic climate control (Climatronic) optional on 3.6L
-Standard eight-speaker AM/FM/CD sound system that is MP3-format compatible
-Premium sound with in-dash six-disc CD changer optional on 2.0T, standard on 3.6L
-Dynaudio sound system optional. Coming from Denmark’s most exclusive stereo maker, the Dynaudio system is custom designed to the Passat to achieve the best audio experience possible.
-Available 10-way power driver seat, available 12-way on 3.6L
-Optional DVD Navigation system, audible with color screen
-Electronic parking brake standard
-Tire-pressure monitoring system standard
-Optional multi-functional steering wheel
-Standard tilt and telescoping four-spoke steering wheel
-Leatherette seat trim standard, leather optional
-Rear passenger vents for A/C and heat standard
-60/40 split folding rear seats with folding center armrest and pass-through feature
-Front center armrest with cooling storage feature
-ABS with four-wheel front vented discs standard
-Electronic Stabilization Program with brake assist standard
-EDL, ASR
-Standard crash-active head restraints
-4MOTION available with 3.6L V6 (later in 2006 MY)
-Eight air bags standard with rear side-thorax airbags optional
-Fully independent four-link rear suspension
-Electromechanical power steering
-Park distance control optional on 3.6L
-Bi-Xenon headlights with washers optional on 3.6L
-18” wheels optional on 3.6L (delayed introduction)