Automotive Forums

Hi All,

So I'm in the market for a new car.  I'm thinking something used, as I can only afford around 15K.  I really like the look of Volvos (especially the s60), but clearly cannot afford one.  Do any of you have a suggestion as to a more affordable car that has a look similar to that of a Volvo s60?  I also want to take into consideration safety ratings and customer satisfaction, etc. as well.  The only real specifications I have are that the car be a V6, four door, power everything.  

Thanks!  

Some people complain that all cars look the same these days.  Others, like me, are enjoying a rather exciting resurgence of unique styling in affordable cars.  Thus, if you ask me, nothing looks like a Volvo, and nothing looks like a Camry, etc.  But if you're really just looking for something that's "carefully" styled (as in, styled by people with a design vision, rather than by a consumer focus-group), and assembled to a high-standard, the first car that comes to mind is the 2002-2006 (I think, might be 2005) VW Passat.  

From an engineering point of view, part of what distinguishes the Passat from other sedans in the category is the fact that its important mechanical components, like suspension, engine, and transmission, are basically identical to the more expensive Audi A4 and A6.  The same engineering that makes the A4 and A6 legitimate competitors to BMW and Mercedes is baked into the Passat's mechanical underpinnings; thus, even if it's not faster, sportier, or more feature-laden than a Camry or Accord, it "feels" more special, more precisely engineered, and more expensive.  Other savvy readers may point out that the Accord and Camry share basic componentry with their more expensive cousins, the Acura TL and Lexus ES300/330/350.  But having driven all of those at length (except the most recent Lexus ES330 and 350), the Passat feels more closely related to the Audis.  

But whatever, most people don't care about where their cars' components come from.  The fact (or maybe just my opinion) is that the Passat has timeless and expensive-looking exterior styling and fit/finish, and an interior that would be perfectly acceptable in a far more expensive car.  It's quiet and rock-steady at very high speed, and while it won't win any autocross races, it's surprisingly nimble and satisfying to drive fast on twisty roads.  

The Passat came with two engine options and two model designations.  The GLS was the "base" car, which came standard with power everything, remote entry, traction control, ABS, EBD, CD player, front and side airbags, and head curtain airbags for front and rear passengers, and a 170 HP 1.8 liter turbo 4 cylinder.  A typical option package that you might find on a used car lot might include a sunroof and the "cold weather" package, with heated seats and mirrors. The 170 HP engine doesn't look impressive on paper, and it doesn't fit your V6 criteria, but if you're interested in the Passat, I highly recommend looking at the 1.8T versions before the V6.  The 1.8T has a small, quick-spooling turbo that delivers the full 166 lb/ft of torque at 1800 RPM.  The net result is that it FEELS as powerful as many V6s in competing cars, and if you accept the automotive press (like Car and Driver) test data as a valuable comparison tool, the Passat 1.8T, with the 5 speed automatic, is as quick from 0-60 as the V6 Camry and Accord of the time (7.6 seconds, if I recall).  The engine's torque provides either wafty, effortless acceleration at part-throttle, or rather thrusty acceleration when you floor it.  I'm continually amazed at how fast it'll go from 60-80MPH after a quick stab of the pedal and a drop to 3rd gear.  

Anyway the GLX, I believe, came standard with a 190HP 2.8 Liter V6.  It makes more power and more torque, but doesn't feel faster, and according to the magazines, it isn't.  However, the GLX's standard equipment (and typical options) make it every bit as richly appointed as a genuine entry-level luxury car, with leather, power seats, and real wood trim.  AWD is available on V6 models only through 2004, I believe, after which AWD was available on the 1.8T as well.  I also recall that in the final year of that generation Passat, VW offered a GL base model.  I can't recall how they reshuffled the standard equipment between the GL and GLS, but either way, for $15K, you're probably looking at a 2003 or 2004 GLS anway.  

Anyway, I've waxed on long enough about the Passat.  If this doesn't suit you, there are other options available.  Accords and Camry's abound, and are excellent cars.  Hyundai's newish Sonata is shockingly good, and because it doesn't hold its resale value well (thanks to now-irrelevant stigma of poor quality), you might be able to find a 2006 V6 with higher than usual mileage for $15K.  

Anwyay, let me know.