[nosubstut]

Unfortunately we have to replace the family hauler ('03 Maxima) that lost in a head-on tangle with an SUV; SUV slid on ice, into my lane (two lane, undivided) and when I braked I found out that we too were on ice. Fortunately, with many blessings, no life threatening injuries.

The task at hand is replacing the Maxima. Budget constraint is maximum of $30-$35M. Living in the North Atlantic, FWD is a requirement. While the Maxima was not bad, we would prefer a better frontal crash test rating. Looked at Volvo, which seems cramped in rear seat legroom. Thought about Subaru but also small rear seat room. The short list has come down to a choice of two- VW Passat (drove the GLX 6cyl) and the Acura TL. I think both are nice cars that exemplify differences of German vs. Japanese approach to driving. My daily driver is a Honda (third Honda for me) and I feel familiar with Honda reliability. I admit that I haven't looked at VW in years and have a question about the current state of VW reliability (comments welcome!). I know that the redesigned Passat, '06 will be introduced this summer, but I need a car sooner than August.

Anybody have experiences with either the Acura TL or the Passat and/or alternative recommendations? TIA.