Car shoppers have no shortage of choices for midsize sedans, but one nameplate that stands out with its affordable price tag and upscale design is the 2017 Volkswagen Passat. It treats its owners to a smooth ride, powerful engine choices, refined and sophisticated interior, abundant space for passengers and cargo and a wide array of advanced technology and safety features. Take a look at this 2017 Volkswagen Passat vs 2017 Toyota Camry comparison to see how the new Passat stacks up against the midsize sedan competition.
In terms of affordability, the 2017 Passat has a base MSRP of $22,440, which is $630 lower than the Camry ($23,070). However, the real advantage comes when you factor in all the Passat's standard features, making it a high-value choice for midsize sedan shoppers. The base Passat 1.8T S comes standard with a rearview camera, dual-zone climate control, 5-inch touchscreen, six-speaker sound system with a CD player, USB port and Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity. Also, the Passat R-Line adds new standard features for 2017, including voice control, SiriusXM Satellite Radio 3-month trial and Volkswagen Car-Net App-Connect technology, while the Passat SE includes all that plus KESSY keyless access with push-button start and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert.
Advantages of the 2017 VW Passat for Orange County Car Shoppers
On the performance front, the 2017 Passat offers two high-tech engine choices: a 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI four cylinder and a 3.6-liter VR6 engine, which delivers a magnificent 280 horsepower — one of the highest outputs in the midsize sedan class. In comparison, the strongest engine the Camry offers is the weaker 268-hp 3.5-L V6. In addition, the 2017 Passat 1.8T has a fuel-sipping EPA estimated highway gas mileage of 34 mpg with the automatic transmission, which edges out the Camry's 33 hwy mpg. The 2017 Passat also benefits from its electro-mechanical power steering, which is weighted to provide a balance between precision at highway speeds and lower steering weight at parking speeds. Also, swinging into a tight parking spot is easy, thanks to the Passat’s 36.4-foot turning radius and just three turns from lock-to-lock.
Both drivers and passengers of the 2017 Passat are treated to a comfortable and spacious ride. Designed and specifically tailored for the U.S. market, the Passat delivers plenty of space for five adults. Ingress and egress is nearly effortless with large, wide-opening doors, and the large trunk can accommodate 15.9 cubic feet of luggage, compared to 15.4 cu-ft for the Camry. And with the Passat's MIB II, the latest generation of Volkswagen infotainment systems, you can enjoy a well-connected and entertaining ride with an impressive range of multimedia features and connected vehicle services. If you live in San Juan Capistrano or anywhere else in Orange County and would like to learn more about the 2017 Passat, then don't hesitate to get in touch with us at Capistrano Volkswagen!
