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2016 Volkswagen Passat SE: A strong, but vanilla midsize sedan

Volkswagen's refreshed Passat covers the midsize sedan basics with a comfortable ride, spacious interior and more technology features, but it leaves standout styling to rivals.

Jon Wong
Jon Wong was a reviews editor for CNET Cars. He test drove and wrote about new cars and oversaw coverage of automotive accessories and garage gear. In his spare time, he enjoys track days, caring for his fleet of old Japanese cars and searching for the next one to add to his garage.
Jon Wong
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Volkswagen released an updated Passat for the 2016 model year. Can you tell?

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With an as-tested price of $30,325, our Passat 1.8T SE with Technology test car seems like it's fairly priced consider the amount of technology features packed into it.

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With the diesel engine not currently offered, the gas 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is the fuel economy champion of the Passat lineup, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 25 mpg city and 38 mpg highway.

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The Passat SE with Technology comes standard with a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, front assist with automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitor.

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Visual updates to the 2016 Passat include a new domed hood, chrome four-bar grille, slimmer headlights, bumpers and trunk lid.

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Unlike its competitors, the Passat continues with a clean and understated design language that will be perfect for those who prefer to fly under the radar.

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While its looks say otherwise, the Passat's chassis is a competent handler, while also returning nice ride comfort with the help of its thick sidewall tires.

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Like the exterior, the Passat's interior is simple and straightforward in design, but a little dull.

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The Passat's MIB II infotainment system features a 6.3-inch captive touchscreen capable of pinch-zooming and swiping controls, navigation and Bluetooth. On the SE with Technology model, VW's Car-Net platform allows for the integration of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink.

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An easy-open trunk feature is new on the Passat for 2016. With the key fob within 3 feet of the trunk, waving a foot under the rear of the trunk will automatically pop it open.

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