Vehicle: 2003 VW Passat W8 sedan with 5-speed Tiptronic

Performance: The W8 is powered by a 4.0L W8 engine that pumps out 275hp and 273 lb/ft of torque. The throttle response is instant and linear. The torque delivery is better than average, however, it lacks the seat-of-the-pants feel of W8′s 6 bangers or even turbocharged 4 banger rivals. The overall response is better describes as gentle than breathtaking considered the hp and torque output of the engine nature. The 5-speed Tiptronic, once again, shifts smoothly and crisply without abrupt feel. The manumatic mode works very well with W8 by squeezing every possible power without sacificing refinement.

Handling: W8 is tuned toward more of a cruiser than a curve eater. The handling is predictable without nasty surprise. Same as lesser Passats, the steering provides plenty of feedback that’s true to its Teutonic heritage. Suspension system absorbs bumps well which creates a ride that easily rivals much more expensive V8 rivals. With the benefit of 4Motion system, W8 can easily be the only 8 banger luxurys sedan you could find at this price range. However, there are quite an amount of body rolls and understeer due to its rather soft suspension setting. VW needs to give W8 a sports suspension if they want to compete with any top dogs in this price range.

Interior: The interior is typical Passat. The seats are comfortable and well-contoured. Everything else are logically placed with an awesome standard stereo system, the climate control works effectively. There are tasteful wood trim put together on center console and door panels. Considered the price VW is charging for a W8, however, here lies a problem. Customers who are shopping a luxury car expect more fancy features than typical Passat “family sedan” uplevel version GLX ones. That’s an area where W8 is lacking. While the Passat’s overall fit-and-finish is simply exceptional in its family sedan segment, it seems a bit lacking when it has to compete with true luxury market.

On the back, the same typical Passat comfy back seats and uninstrusive trunk hinges.

Conclusion: I have to admit W8 is a great step for VW to go upmarket, its also a stepstone for consumers to accept ” people’s car” as a luxury brand before the Phaeton arrives on our shore. On the other end of the scale, I found the W8 engine underwhelming considered its spec and performance of its rivals. Lastly, people buying W8′s price tag doesn’t want its interior to associate with a lesser silibings that feel and put together 99.99% similar. Despite all the criticisms, W8 remains a pretty decent package.

OVERALL VERDICTS FOR 2003 PASSAT W8 SEDAN
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Performance: 2.5/5
Handling/fun-to-drive: 3/5
Fit-and-finish/built quality: 3.75/5
Ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4/5
Value-for-money: 2.5/5

Overall rating: 3/5