Originally Posted By: Quattro Pete
Originally Posted By: fdcg27
It'll have less power but may offer better fuel economy.
Passat has less HP, but more torque throughout the entire RPM range. Being an NA engine, the Accord does not reach its peak torque until 4,400 RPM. And at 1,500 RPM, the Passat has more torque than the Accord at 4,400 RPM.
I test drove the Passat and came VERY close to purchasing it. I decided I just can't bring myself at this time to trade in my well cared for paid off Accord with only 53K miles. Maybe in 5 years, maybe sooner who knows. When that new car itch hits me it hits hard lol. I have to say though, The Passat felt less punchy than I thought it would. I know our Jetta is a smaller car by comparison, but that thing feels MUCH more lively than the Passat did.
A couple things to note about the Passat that I noticed during the time I had it. Very comfy ride, soaks up bumps nicely even with the 19" wheels. Nice quiet cabin also. Great gas milage! It's pretty nice cruising around in such a large car and getting economy car MPG numbers. Steering and handling were great. Fit and finish was very nice save for the 1 spot I noticed in the headliner that wasn't tucked in properly (that would have drove me nuts). It is a sharp looking car and will age well! Smooth transmission although not as responsive as the 09G in our Jetta. Again I will slightly complain about power. It is certainly sufficient, I just figured they would put a little more OMPH in the 2.0T. Hondas 2.0T by comparison makes about 100 more pound feet of torque. One of my biggest gripes is the stereo system. It is lacking, A LOT. The stock system in my Accord is much better, the Passat sounded very tinny.
Most of those things are me just being nit picky though. I LOVED the car, and if I can hold off another 5 years and if the current Passat at that time still has the same characteristics this one does, it will certainly be on the top of my list. Glad I can still scratch my VW itch by hoping in our Jetta for a spin haha.
Edit: as nice as it is to drive these Turbo'd VW's around, there is something about winding out my n/a K24 to 7K with that VTEC pop at 5K. Feels and sounds so good! haha.