With clear, wide-open roads for the majority of our trip to the SEMA show in Las Vegas, the Passat Wagon got plenty of throttle exercise. At higher speeds, the cabin remained fairly quiet, with some wind noise penetrating the doors and sunroof, though it was never bothersome. Road and tire noise were also evident, but again, they were well kept well within reason and never an annoyance. The engine remained quiet under normal operation, only upping the decibels when the driver really worked it, and then it returned with a refined and eager note.