Getting in is easy, with a silicone-damped assist handle over each door. Central locking is standard, and a valet key keeps the guys at the car park out of your trunk. The interior center dome light, with time delay, is complemented by two reading lights front and rear. Doors lock at 8 mph (but can be reprogrammed by the dealer) and unlock for occupant rescue in case of airbag deployment. In addition to the standard front airbags, the Passat comes standard with side seat-mounted airbags and side curtain airbags designed to help protect front and rear seat passengers in case of a side collision.

The seats are firm but comfortable for a long drive. The front seats have a hand-crank recline that has the advantage of being infinitely variable but takes longer and is more awkward to adjust. VW uses special soft-touch paint for painted surfaces. A new-design console between the front seats has size-adjustable cupholders and a large storage compartment.

Two adult males will have adequate room in the back seat, but three will be a squeeze and shouldn't be contemplated for more than just a short ride. Three-point seat belts are provided for the outboard passengers only. Cupholders for the rear seats are located in a fold-down armrest that also has more storage.

The sedan's trunk is truly cavernous, with a flat floor extending the full distance to the seatbacks, which is quite a way. The result is an impressive 15 cubic feet of cargo capacity, and with none of it lost to the trunk lid supports as the Passat has articulated trunk lid supports.