Advice Sought on purchase

[electricmonk]

Hi, yes forum noob.
I have had a few air cooled vw's before and due to circumstance now find myself looking for a more modern vehicle, something reliable economical and hopefully fun to drive. I could go out and buy a car now if I wanted. But because I am me I want something different, hence my reason for being here.
I like the look of the Passat's and Bora's around 2000-2003. I have a budget of $12000. I need a car that can handle a hundred k round trip up a steep hill once a week as well as get me to work and back on a ten minute journey during the week. I will have my children in the car when I have access so that's why upgrading to something a little safer than I normally drive.
I have seen a few 4Motion's out there and like them, I also missed out on a Passat Synchro by ten minutes that I absolutely loved. Also like the 4motion's as well
Trouble is I know nothing about water cooled vw's
I would like a 6cyl but here there are also 5cyl models. Not sure about the 4's as the cars appear to be moderately heavy and would like a bit of get up and go. Not a rev head by any means and always stick to speed limits.
Can someone tell me what I should look out for on models between those years? Any info on different configurations would also help, I have no preference between auto or manual.
I am even looking at buying interstate now as I need a car soon.
Perfect car would be black, with the black and tan interior.
I guess what I am saying is HELP lol, someone educate me.

Jason

[Lams]

The pre 2005 Passat did come in a V6 4motion (or a W8 4motion but I think they're still around $30k) in auto - it's a nice size
The Bora also came in a V6 4motion, it's a little smaller but it is available as a manual.

Have you also considered the Audi A4s?