Anyone recommend the Passat?

Hi

I'm looking to upgrade my current car, a Mazda6, to a family estate car. Recent additions to the family mean that the current car is just not big enough.
Amongst others I'm looking at the V70. I'm not sure about an automatic or manual gearbox, so would like some opinions on this. Is the auto, which is what i would ideally like, reliable and consistent? Or would I be looking at a new transmission at 100k miles?

I was looking at the A6 Multitronic, but have heard worrying things about the gearbox that I don't want a £3,500 bill coming my way in the next year or two!

So is the Passat a decent reliable motor?

Comments welcome...

Paul

I do. I've had mine for 2 years now.  I have the 2.0T.  It's quick and handles like a dream.  Spend the extra for the Dynaudio.  It's well worth it.

We just got rid of a 2003 with 90,000 miles and bought a 2005 with 55,500. I can not find anything that rides and performs like a Passat for the money.  We Love It!!!!!!!!!!!!

i love my passat

the passat is a great car, the new ones are awesome, especially the 3.6 4motion, very comfortable and handle great, reliable car, definitly recomended