All Torque!

Take Five

by Murph

The 2.3-litre, 5 cylinder engine is a unique combination. These days many opt for the V6 or straight six option. Fire up the VW's V5 engine and the first thing one notices is the 'burbly' engine note. On the road it feels and sounds like any six-cylinder rival. To realise the full potential of the engine it has to be pushed hard. However, the 2324cc 25V unit moves the Passat along rapidly. The available output is a mere 150bhp at 6000rpm. At the lower end of the rev range it's a bit lethargic but power availability mid-range ensures you can reach 60mph from 0mph in 8.5secs and a top speed of 133mph. What did surprise was the engine noise intrusion in the cabin, something which may not appeal to the driver who enjoys a quieter motoring environment.

In the ride and handling department the front wheel drive Passat shares much of its suspension with its close relative, the Audi A4. The VR5's suspension is somewhat stiff to enhance the sporty character of the car. It may be uncomfortable for those who enjoy a softer ride. Together with a good chassis it is composed and well behaved on most road surfaces. Pushing it hard through some bends can result in a little understeer, which is an uncharacteristic feature not found on sporting variants of rivals such as the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Vectra. Steering is crisp and precise, responding quickly to the drivers change of direction. Overall the VR5 holds the road well and will give a reasonable reward to the enthusiastic pilot.

The cabin has an inviting atmosphere. Using light colours above the waistline and dark below creates an air of spaciousness. The fusion of space and comfort enhances the driving experience of the VR5. The dash and instruments may be similar to that of the A4 but their build quality is top class. The instruments are clear and well positioned and easily visible through the three-spoke sport steering wheel. At night they have soothing blue backlights. The seats are a combination of leather and fabric. The front seats are sporty with supportive bolsters. Tilt and rake adjustable steering matched with a height adjustable drivers seat enables you to enjoy an excellent driving position. Equipment levels are high and include, as standard, A/C, electric windows, remote central locking and alarm/immobiliser, however, a CD autochanger is an expensive option at almost �400stg.

This is just a personal opinion but I feel the Passat has an ageless body style. Even if it was introduced almost three years ago it still looks fresh today. It's probably a compliment to the design that many other manufacturers are following the styling cue of the Passat. It's simple and not overstated. The front has similarities with the A4 apart from the legendary VW badge that is. The roofline is clever sloping rearwards giving the impression from the side that the Passat is a hatchback, the car only being available in booted and estate versions. The wheel arches are a feature, which give the car a muscular appearance and are nicely filled with the standard five-spoke alloy wheels with low-profile tyres. Door mirrors, handles and bumpers are all colour coded and help enrich the presence of this car.

The VR5 will not set the road alight but it is a good package. In a really competitive market it's good value for money and holds its value long after it leaves the showroom. As a V6 convert I'm not sure if I could live with one cylinder less!

Murph