The Passat is the best selling car made in Germany in America. The Passat GLS 1.8T is also the cheapest German-built car sold here (at least until the Jetta wagon arrives; less expensive VWs sold in the U.S. are made in Mexico). Maybe the two have something to do with each other, although the Passat's "rocket for every pocket" may be a factor as well.

Regardless of price, our pick would be the GLS 1.8T. It beats the V6 by several more miles per gallon, whether manual or automatic, city or highway and, in our opinion, feels better doing so. You can always order the special options you want?unless it's all-wheel drive. If you need or want that extra traction in a sporty German sedan, consider the Audi A4. They'll sell you the 1.8T all-wheel drive?and with a manual transmission, too.

On the other hand, if you're hankering to spend even more, wait 'til next fall when Volkswagen adds the "W8" engine option to the Passat lineup. This narrow-angle V8 is certain to twist the Passat's tail?but be prepared to spend more at the pump and considerably more on your monthly payment. Or you could save the money and get your 1.8T now and start enjoying the virtues of the Passat immediately.