VW’s once-upscale Audi fighter is designed now to do battle with Honda and Hyundai, losing a dash of German flavor in the process. The Passat is designed with American buyers in mind, built in Tennessee. A 170-hp 1.8-liter turbo four with a five-speed manual is standard; a six-speed automatic is optional. A 280-hp 3.6-liter VR6 is the sporty upgrade with a six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic. 2015 and 2016 TDI diesels have been stop-saled until further notice due to EPA violations.