2016 Volkswagen Passat 1.8T SE

If you want a proper US-spec sedan that covers serious miles without costing serious money, this 2016 Volkswagen Passat 1.8T SE deserves a close look. Because it was built for the American market, it registers easily on USAREUR plates and ships home without hassle when your tour ends.

Under the hood sits Volkswagen’s 1.8-liter TSI turbo four, rated at 170 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic. Better still, the engine has just received a complete tune-up. The timing chain and all of its components have been fully replaced. In addition, it has new fuel injectors, new NGK spark plugs and new NGK ignition coils. As a result, this Passat has been given a new lease on life: it drives smooth, quiet and eager, with strong pull and relaxed Autobahn cruising.

The real reason people choose a Passat, however, is space. The rear seat offers limo-like legroom, and the trunk swallows family luggage or a full PCS load of boxes. Moreover, the SE trim steps up comfort over the base model, so long drives to Ramstein or the Alps are far more pleasant, even with the whole family on board.

Admittedly, this Passat has covered 153,817 miles. Even so, the major wear items have now been renewed, and it comes with 15 documented service records and a clean title. In other words, the expensive work is already done. Taken together, it is an honest, roomy and economical sedan at a fair price.

At $9,995 tax-free, it is ready for a test drive in Wiesbaden.

Autobahn66, Your next car is here!