Smoother operator

proportioned. It makes using Apple Car Play, Android Auto and the built-in satnav a cinch. The navigation display also can run on the driver’s instrument display. increasing scrutiny. As we wait for the World Health Organisation and the EU to figure out whether diesel will be throttled out of existence, this is a fine example of the current breed. It’s smooth, quiet and refined and remarkably fuel efficient for this size of vehicle (5.4L/100km). The Passat Alltrack is back as a new model after a brief hiatus. It starts from $49,990 drive-away for the regular model and $54,990 drive-away for the Wolfsburg Edition (as tested). At first guess, I thought it would be nearer $60,000, given its Audi-like levels of quality and technology (LED headlights, radar cruise control, lanekeeping and, of course, the wide screen), nine airbags, leather seats, adaptive suspension and all-wheel drive. The only options are metallic paint (a greedy $700) and panorama sunroof ($2000).

It’s no myth: European cars are expensive to service. Service intervals are industry average 12 months or 15,000km but the first visit is over the odds at $399; the subsequent visits may require a remortgage ($589, $640 — and $1137).