The 2009 Volkswagen Passat Wagon is a four-door, five-passenger model that includes a wealth of useful features. While the exterior design is lacking in contemporary flair, the affordable price and superior fuel efficiency make the Passat Wagon, even when compared to the Audi A4 Avant Wagon, one of the best on the market. Families with small children will be more than pleased with the overwhelming number and quality of safety features, and the interior is packed with convenient additions. With over seventy-three cubic feet of cargo space in the rear of the Volkswagen Passat Wagon, any amount of groceries or sports equipment will fit easily. The one flaw that might catch buyer's attention is that there is no entertainment system available like in many of the SUVs on the market.

Under the hood, the Passat Wagon is equipped with a 200 horsepower 2.0L turbo I4. If desired, buyers can upgrade to a more powerful 280 horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder. A six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic is standard, but consumers can opt for a six-speed manual as well. This wagon gets an impressive 19 city MPG and 28 highway MPG. Vented front four-wheel disc brakes provide improved braking capabilities, and independent suspension gives the Passat a smoother ride. An Electronic Stabilization Program keeps the wagon on its intended course and can help prevent a collision, while Hydraulic Brake Assist corrects over-braking or if too little force is put on the brakes.

, the 2009 Volkswagen Passat is stocked with bonus features. Three auxiliary power outlets make it both convenient and quick to recharge any electronic devices, and the Auto Hold program keeps the model from rolling while stopped on a hill. The stereo system has an input jack for any type of music player, so drivers can take their playlists along for the ride. The dash includes several storage compartments for whatever drivers can fit in them, and the driver gets his own personal glove box as well. One of the most innovative features of the 2009 Passat Wagon is the Key Fob. This fob will not only remotely lock and unlock the wagon, it can also be directly inserted into the ignition to start and turn off the vehicle. With this handy addition, there simply is no need for a traditional key anymore.

Safety features range from the typical daytime running lamps to the novel brake pad wear indicator. The power windows have a one-click feature that triggers them to automatically close. While other car makers are handling customer complaints about the windows pinching their fingers on the way up, Volkswagen has provided a sensor that ensures that passengers will not get pinched. The Passenger Occupant Detection System will sense the general height, weight, and position of the front passenger to better determine the force with which to deploy an airbag as well.

Overall, the 2009 Volkswagen Passat Wagon is a super safe model that is a great pick for families. A spacious interior and many convenient features make the model comfortable for every member of the family. Priced at $29,690, the Passat Wagon is an affordable alternative to a bulky SUV.