Motor Trend, one of the world’s premier automotive authorities has named the Volkswagen Passat the 2012 Motor Trend Car of the Year.

“Chassis, steering, ride, and handling all are tastiest within this segment,” said Motor Trend editor-in-chief, Angus McKenzie. “It’s in this category the bigger Passat really demonstrates its engineering excellence.”

The Passat offers class-leading rear-seat legroom and standard Bluetooth and automatic dual-zone climate control.  The Passat is also the only midsize sedan with a clean diesel option in the lineup.  When equipped with a manual transmission the TDI clean diesel model will get an EPA estimated 43 miles per gallon on the highway and a range of 795 miles.

“Volkswagen is extremely proud to receive this honor,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen of America. “This recognition from Motor Trend is a testament to the engineering integrity of the Passat and validates our strategy of providing a US-built, German engineered mid-size sedan at a price in the heart of the mid-size segment.”