THE Passat Syncro is controlled by a relatively fast-ratio power assisted rack and pinion steering system. Like virtually every front-wheel drive car today, the front end geometry uses negative steering offset to help cancel out the effects of varying friction coefficients on either side of the car. This tends to automatically correct any tendency to pull to one side if the braking surface differs from one side of the car to the other. The leather-rimmed steering wheel is adjustable for height and reach.