Hmmm.
Mondeo has more space and better handling (for values of handling that include weightings for feel, turn in and grip factor). Also bigger boot, admittedly a drab interior. Mondeo 2.2 diesels are better to drive too. Like it or not the C class and 3 series overlap with the Passat range and have better handling and engines, even in basic form, and still get all round electric windows (a feature you seem to crave, oddly I've never needed to wind down the rear windows of our Verso which is windy, but my A class is electric all round, and in one way it's a pain as if your not concentrating you catch the wrong switch and feel daft at the toll booth). The Passat (current one) is nothing more than a stretched golf, which in itself isn't a bad thing, but really provides nothing more than a way for VW to have a medium saloon without big production costs. I think it's better than the old Passat, but since the demise of its real competition (the Rover 75) leaving it with the Vectra (better sporty versions, but the base ones feel cheap) and the Mondeo (again base ones feel cheap but the upper models are good) and the Avensis (dull but good, bit like the Passat) it is bound to sell well. In terms of engines, the Vectra and the Avensis diesels are better than the VW ones to drive.