BECAUSE of the fixed location of the rear differential, the Passat Syncro uses a fully independent rear suspension in place of the front-drive versions' torsion beam axle layout. Not uncommonly, this affects the wheelbase, in this case shortening it slightly. The front suspension is a coil sprung four-link layout (pictured) while at the rear VW has fitted the subframe mounted twin wishbone system used elsewhere in the VW and Audi Syncro range. The four-link front suspension aims to reduce torque steer and provide good ride quality.