The Volkswagen name was once synonymous with the ultimate in economy, the least expensive cars to buy and operate. A lot has changed since the original Beetle, however. VW?s are still efficient, but they are not the cheapest cars on the lot.Now, with the introduction of the Passat W8, Volkswagen is competing with established luxury marques with a base price flirting with 40 grand. One thing that?s the same, however, is VW?s innovative spirit. There was nothing like the Beetle, and no one has ever made an engine like the W8?s.Click here to read more