The Passat has a 4/5 star NHTSA safety rating (http://www.safercar.gov/) and is a TOP Safety pick by the IIHS (http://www.iihs.org/). ABS, ESP, Front, side and head curtain airbags - all standard.
2.0 liter turbo charged 4-cylinder with a DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox), this engine/transmission combination beats many 6 cylinder offerings by other manufacturers. The car is a rocket, feels faster than the 200 HP in the specs. Plus, I get 26 mpg combined.
At the time I purchased the vehicle there were a lot of incentives from VW, lowering the price by over $4,000 from sticker. VW Also offered incredible lease rates on the 2010 models. I pay $310/month after $2,500 down - for a $31,000 vehicle.
Comfortable power seats with power lumbar adjustment. Good side support, and with the tilting/telescoping steering wheel - easy to find a comfortable driving position. Also has easy to use steering wheel controls for the cars stereo/trip computer.
