Our family vacation plans were falling into place nicely by mid-July. I received a call where I was invited to attend the Volkswagen Free Driving Tour experience in Mississauga. Unfortunately, this event was taking place the week we were going on holidays.
I inquired if they wanted to have someone attend in my place and if they were interested in me reviewing an adult friendly car while on vacation. I was pleased to receive a response saying that Volkswagen would be delighted if we tested their car for the 1546 km trek we were about to endure.
Volkswagen Canada loaned us a 2012 Passat TDI Highline. This vehicle is a 2.0 TDI, 140 hp, 4 cylinder with a 6-speed automatic Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) with Tiptronic®.
As a mom, I want three things from a vehicle. It has to be economical on gas, spacious, and comfortable for growing teens. (Yes, they argue even more at this age)
Picking Up the Volkswagen
I have a teenage daughter, so you can just imagine the luggage we had for 10 days vacation. The Volkswagen Passat’s rear trunk fit everything besides a laptop bag and a few pillows.
It fits four adults very comfortably and the back seat was roomy enough for my almost 6 foot tall son. Actually when we arrived he balked at the size of the car but once in, he was raving on how much leg room he did have and how comfortable the seats were.
I was suffering from a sore back and despite the heat, I was able to adjust the heat on the seats in order to alleviate some of the pain I was experiencing. The 8-way power adjustable front driver and passenger seats with power lumbar support was a pleasure for myself and especially my husband who drove non-stop from Ajax to Gaspe, Quebec.
Fuel Economy
We left Ajax with a full tank of gas, we drove 975 km before we had to refuel. Trois Pistoles is about two hours past Quebec City. My husband was amazed with the mileage as we generally have to stop prior to Quebec City to fill up. (Of course, we had to keep in mind to use the diesel tanks.) This car would be fabulous for commuters as it is so economical.
Driving Conditions and Safety
If you know the Gaspe Coast, you’ll agree that it is non-stop excitement with the coves, rolling hills, and sharp turns. The Volkswagen Passat was a fun car to drive through all of these conditions with its Engine Braking Assist.
Summary and Vehicle Specifications
Overall, the comfort and gas mileage of the Volkswagen Passat makes this car an ideal choice for a growing family. For commuters, the interior dash with the touch screen radio controls and Bluetooth technology will ensure safe travels everyday.
The 2012 Passat TDI Highline sells for $36,915.00 and is fully loaded with 17″ alloy wheels ‘Salamanca’ w/ anti-theft locks and all-season tires, Auto-dimming interior mirror, Front fog lights, Kessy – keyless access w/ start & stop button and more.
Check out the Volkswagen website to learn more about this fabulous economically friendly vehicle today.
The Volkswagen Passat TDI has a:
- 5 year/100,000km (whichever occurs first). Powertrain Limited Warranty
- 4 year/80,000 km (whichever occurs first). New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Wear & tear items and adjustments excluded after initial 12 month/20,000 km (whichever occurs first)
- 12 year/unlimited distance Limited Warranty against Corrosion Perforation
