2004 Volkswagen Passat Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.38/5 Average
350 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The big news for 2004 is the addition of a 2.0-liter diesel four-cylinder engine to the lineup late in the model year. The 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is a delayed option on 1.8T-equipped GLS models. Also note that the 2.8-liter V6 is no longer available on GLS models. The premium Monsoon stereo and Homelink are now standard on all GLS models, while wood trim has been added to the optional Leather Package. The ESP stability control system is now standard on the GLX. Rounding out the changes are restyled 15- and 16-inch wheels and new side mirrors with integrated turn signals.

Pros:
  • Fun to drive, excellent value in GL or GLS trim, roomy interior with upscale feel, outstanding build and materials quality, available all-wheel drive.
Cons:
  • Expensive upper-level models, less rear-seat room than some competitors, some confusing interior controls.

User Reviews:

Showing 221 through 230 of 350.00
  • Very happy with my Passat - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I wrote a review back in 2006 - now I see I was unfair to this vehicle... 3 1/2 years later and 35000 miles later I like it even more... It has been a stellar performer and a fun car to have. I am planning on a major service in about 6 months (timing belt) and expect to drive it another 6-7 years. What a jewel...

  • new owner(4months) - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    selected this model for price,style and fuel economy 4cylinder. after 2weeks you get a letter notifying you of the 4cyl engines problems with oil clogging. whats good is you are covered by and 8yr unlimited mileage transferrable warranty for this problem. whats bad is the need to use synthetic oil at scheduled oil changes (double the price) and the need to maintain documentation of all services should this problem arise. this was a disappointment for me becuase i think a 4cylinder engine should provide the lowest maintenance costs. i am averaging 24 mpg over 5000 miles. the car so far has been enjoyable, but i am coming off an acura tl

  • Great Car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I love my Passat, and the service that comes with it is fantastic

  • Uber Wagon - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    My wife and I looked at a Saab 95 and Volv0 V70, but the GLX Wagon had the best combination of features (Onstar and Memory Seats that drive the price of the 95 to $40,000) and price. The only thing missing was a little exclusivity and Xenon headlights. Gas economy seems very poor, but I expect it to improve as we put more miles on the car.

  • This car saved my daughters life - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    In March 2003, my one-year-old daughter and I were involved in a rollover accident on the interstate, which occured when I lost control of the car (note: 2001 model I was driving did not have stability control). Thanks to the superior safety of the VW Passat, we were both able to walk away from the accident without a scratch. The car was totaled, and I immediately went out and bought another just like it. I would recommend this car without reservation to anyone with small children.

  • vw passat wagon - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Great combo of a family car and sedan.

  • puny issues - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Passat Wagon with 4 MOTION- Quiet, powerful, and very comfy.Power seat acting up after 2 weeks, a couple of bubbles in the dash vinyl, and the thud of the downshift into 1st at stops the only complaints – wish I didnt have to deal with it; the dealer tells me as I sat in the car to drive it off the lot that they would need to reprogram the computer on first servicing. Now, I can sleep at night.

  • Nice Car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    This tastefully designed car is built on a stretched Audi A4 platform and utilizes A4 & A6 underpinnings. The interior is seriously lacking in storage space & the Monsoon stereo doesnt have strong bass, but interior quality is first class. Likewise, the exterior build quality is as good as it gets. The turbo 4 is both strong and weak depending on when the boost kicks in. Utilizing this engine to its best advantage takes practice. The driving dynamics are where this car excels as it feels taught, solid, and connected to the road. However, the brake pedal feels a tad mushy. Overall the car offers more panache than its competitors and represents a good value.

  • Good buy for the price - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Very well priced German car when compared against other like models. I have had both an auto and manual, highly recommend the manual for more pick up. Considered buying a 3-series BMW though I did not see the added value in the lower end 3-series for the extra money. The Passat has lighter handling than the BMW, due to not having sports suspension, and you pay for this with slight roll in the coners. For a 100% german car it is great value, especially now Ford have their hands on BMW.

  • Love My Passat Wagon! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Everything about it is great, bought it new in January 2004. My husband pulled a u-turn in it two weeks later (didnt see the oncomining car) which required front right body work. Boy, did he feel stupid! It drives just great, love the "bun warmers", blue lights in dashboard, visability, and comfortable seats. I am a realtor so comfort and ease of ingress and egress are important. Highly recommend it. Our other car is a Saab which is expensive for repairs and has had numerous problems.

Volkswagen Passat Reviews By Year:
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