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 121 through 130 of 350.00
  • A True Q Ship - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Tasteful styling coupled, a torquey engine, well-spaced ratios in the 6-spd manual, and AWD makes for a potent combination that slips under the radar (literally). The AWD with ESP ensures that corners are taken with aplomb. Handling in rain and snow is incredible. Some may find the ride stiff. Steering is a bit overboosted, although adjustment takes place quickly. Very comfortable touring for two, and easily hauls 5 without disomcomfort.

  • vw passat - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    excellent vehicle handling and ride, comfortable on extended trips as well as around town.best vehicle investment ever made.

  • First and last Passat - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I like my Passat, but I doubt Ill buy another one. The six cylinder has nice pickup around town, and is fun to drive, but it dies on the highway, especially if you are carrying people. Also, the gas mileage is ridiculous - I get 13 to 14 mpg around town. Little things - like not being able to read the dashboard meters - make me question the engineering. Also, this car - even with front wheel drive - is terrible in snow. And the Passat is expensive for what you get .. my next car is probably the Infiniti G35. I regret buying the Passat instead of the G35 ... both in the same price range.

  • Few drawbacks, still good purchase - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Overall, I have been pleased with this vehicle. You can read the pros and cons under the improvements/features. Considering what I know now, I would still buy this vehicle again but would give consideration to the GLX if you are going to have many drivers using this car needing various seating adjustments.

  • Still satisfied after 4 years - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    We purchased our wagon new about 4.5 years ago. We have been very satisfied with it. It has run well the entire time and the only time there was a problem that was not a recall was when we got bad gas, which isnt the cars fault! Its been driven 1/2 way across the country a couple of times and the gas mileage is pretty ok, averaging 30+ MPG on the highway.

  • I Still LOVE This Car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I bought my 2004 passat GLX 4motion slightly used with less than 9,000 miles on it. I lived in North Idaho for 11 years and this little car handled everything the weather threw at it. Now Im in Florida and I still love my car. Im At 65,000 miles and It has had no problems at all. Zero. I always do the routine maintenance and It still runs amazingly well. I have always had Japanese cars with their very good repair record but loved the way this little car handled so I bought it, always thinking if it becomes a problem, Ill sell it and move on. When its time to replace this car Ill get another German car. I just love the way they handle. Its sick, but I do love this car.

  • So far so good - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Picked up my new GLX 4-motion Wagon last week. I already have a 2000 Golf and had some early problems (all warranty), so I am on guard this time. BUT, so far everything is great. The gas mileage is less than I would like, but thats the price for the fast lane. Initially I checked out Subarus (the next Outback / Forester) and for the price (got a good deal) I gould not pass up the VW

  • 04 GLX Wagon V6 - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Only had the car for one week now, but WOW! Got it for my wife (30th birthday gift) and we couldnt be more pleased. Great ride, great features, and that famous VW fit & finish. For a "mommamobile" it doesnt get any better than this, and I find myself envious of her ride! Its simply the most classy, well-refined, and user- friendly wagon for under $40k. Looking forward to many years of happiness in owning this vehicle. We hope the reliabilty is better than what weve been reading about, however. On the upside, it cant be any worse than the horrendous car she previously had, a 1999 Pontiac Grand- Am GT. GM should have paid ME to take delivery of THAT car. Go for the VW wagon, yall.

  • Fast, Comfortable & Useful - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Purchased new. Not driven hard except for an Audi Quattro Club weekend at Road America where it held its own at 110 mph plus. Several long trips were very comfortable. A very useful hauler of all kinds of stuff. Sound system: Excellent & I have lots of cassettes and CDs to play. I prefer the front end styling to the later chrome; understated, not glitzy. The engine is wonderful: strong, powerful, smooth and gets remarkably good mileage for an eight; 25 mpg plus at 65-70 mph. Major complaint: Car delivered with OnStar and salesman knew it was important. Two years later (and three years short of the new car warranty) VW canceled the service. VWs response to my complaint. Too bad.

  • BYG Review8 - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    To own a W8 is love. I cant wait to turn the key, crank the stereo and shift into fun! The W8 is a marvel of auto-feats, 4Motion keeps all four tires grounded like no other! The 6 spd manual is effortless and has a powerband that is limitless.

Volkswagen Passat Reviews By Year:
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