The new Passat's are huge in the back seat. Front seat, not so much. He will probably still fit, but they aren't as roomy in the front as they used to be.
Actually, they are usually the class of car that uses its space most efficiently. Cruze is big on the inside, so is the regal, golf, etc.
yup
6'6"
Try out the Regal, they look great and come in multiple engine options.
Not sure why you didn't like the GTI, or that would be my suggestion.