Volkswagen Passat Highline 2.0 TDi 140ps DSG

Make: Volkswagen
Model: Passat Estate
Year: 2009
Mileage: 80'000
Engine size: 2.0 140ps TDi DSG
Colour: Metallic Black
Specification: Highline

Seeing as though this car had driven a large number of miles in such a short space of time, I was pleasantly surprised to see that all the beige leather was in perfect condition, the gearbox was still as tight as a nut and felt like it had just rolled out of the factory!

I'm a big fan of this Passat, especially being in the highline spec. and with the beautiful DSG 'box. The 2.0 TDi 140ps engine is definitely the right choice for this estate model as it is no slouch, getting to 62mph in around 10s, and has the fuel economy to please all long-distance drivers. Although the 6spd manual is a better bet for motorway driving, the DSG has to be considered as a real alternative to the standard manual as it is ever so smooth and actually makes the car quicker. The electric handbrake had been upgraded to include auto-hold on this particular car which makes crawling up hills much easier. Being a large car, the Passat will not woo you in the corners but will not run away and hide every time you show it a country B-Road! I prefer the ride and handling in this in comparison to rivals such as the Honda Accord and Ford Mondeo as it has more of a luxury feel and makes you feel that little bit 'posher'.

As for the interior, this Highline model came with full beige leather and heated front seats. As with the SE, the drivers seat has a 4-way electric lumber support and is partially electric itself. There is masses of space in every seat so can easily cater for five fully grown adults. The boot is cavernous, being 1641 litres, so you will find it hard to fill it on regular usage! This car is well 'speced' too having cruise control, front&rear parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, on-board computer and handsfree. In comparison to competitors however, you will get more for your money if you opt for Japanese cars. Having said this, one cannot complain that it is baron of gadgets!

I particularly like the styling of this Mk6 Passat as it looks contemporary and more upmarket than others. The larger 17" Highline alloy wheels set the black metallic paint off and wouldn't look out of place parked in-front of a stately home.

On the contrary, I'm not a big fan of the upmarket price tag that follows all second hand VW's. Also, the interior space isn't quite that of rivals.

Overall, I love this model of Passat and will be personally considering one when I come to change my current Bora. The 'posh' feel you get from this car is immense and you will never be disappointed with your purchase.

PS: Look around for the best deal, even if it means travelling half-way across the country as you can save yourself a heap of money!!