2008 Volkswagen Passat Turbo

Even in a class filled with well-fortified challengers from the U.S., Japan, and South Korea, Volkswagen's Passat Turbo stands out. Its 2.0L four-cylinder engine is unusually muscular, thanks to a turbocharger that helps raise output to 200 hp. Chassis feel is decidedly Germanic: solid, taut, tuned to handle speed effortlessly. And the Passat's European DNA means a clean, sleek exterior shape and a simple, orderly cabin that stands apart from some of the flashier competition.

If you're seeking a four-cylinder, four-door "driver's car," look no further. With the most potent engine in its class, the Passat leaves rivals gasping in its exhaust fumes. Zero to 60 mph takes just 6.7 sec with the available six-speed automatic transmission (a $1075 option). Further, the Passat trips the quarter-mile lights in just 15 sec flat. "The 2.0L turbo is so lovely," says Kiino. "Gobs of torque down low, very smooth, plus good mileage." (The Turbo returns 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway with the automatic.)

The first time you bend the Passat into a corner, you'll know its virtues don't end with its mighty mill. Steering feel is smooth and linear, and the suspension returns plenty of handling prowess (0.83 g) with a ride that never turns harsh. Keep an eye on the speedo: The Passat Turbo does "swift" like Howard Stern does shock. You might not even notice your true pace until those blue lights appear in your rearview mirror.

Yet, for all of its athletic talents, the Passat remains a dutiful family member. There's plenty of room in the cabin, the materials mostly look and feel high-quality (the standard leatherette makes a fine leather substitute, but some gray plastic trim bits look cheap). Climate control is manual, though heated front seats are standard.

Criticisms are mostly minor. The pressurized engine drinks premium fuel only; that equates to about six percent more in annual fuel costs -- a price we're willing to pay to enjoy the Turbo's thrust. The standard "smart key" is an obnoxious little rectangle that, instead of being smart enough to talk to the ignition while still in your pocket, requires insertion into a motorized slot that seems to exist only to break one day. It's needlessly complicated. Also, it's no secret that VW has suffered reliability woes in recent years, though the company insists it's turning things around. (In an effort to back up that claim, VW has recently announced that all 2009 models will come with free scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles.)

At around $26,000 with the automatic, the Passat Turbo is pricier than some competitors but still a solid value. In fact, you'd have to call that price fair indeed for an "almost 3 Series."