Overview & Reviews

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.

• Fun to drive, excellent value in GL or GLS trim, roomy interior with upscale feel, outstanding build and materials quality, available all-wheel drive.

• Expensive upper-level models, less rear-seat room than some competitors, some confusing interior controls.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 350.00

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  Passat Wagen 1.8T - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Ken Krigbaum - May 11 - 2:50 pm

  To be fair, I have not had the Passat that long (2 months). It currently has 7,600 miles, mostly highway miles. So far, I have been impressed. I generally trade cars every year, and I usually buy Toyotas. I still dont think anyone matches Toyota for quality, value, reliability, etc., which begs the question, "Why a VW?" Well, to put it simply, its "the ride." It is a drivers car at a great price. To be sure, this is a touring car, and that is where it shines. At 80+mph, its "at home" getting 40 mpg or better. In the city, its performance is a bit lurchy. In traffic, the turbo isnt a great match.

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  pretty good car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By john101 - April 23 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive. Have had several recalls over the year Ive owned it. I dont like the turbo "lag" in hard acceleration but gas mileage is good as is performance.

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  A Problem - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By abettinger2 - April 10 - 2:00 am

  Bought it for my wife. Ignition coil problems, instruments turn out hard to read in bright sunshine with sunglasses on, seat velour wearing, drivers door handle wearing and seats to short for my legs.

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  Comfortable Ride - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By CeCe - April 6 - 7:43 pm

  I absolutely love this car!!! I had a 96 Mustang before this purchase for 8 years and it only took me 2 days to become spoiled from my 05 Passat. The gas mileage is great. And actually I travel 50 miles to work one way and I average more than 38 miles to the gallon. Its more like 40.5, and Im no pokey driver. Ive only had it for a short while, but I predict I will love it always!

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  noticeable turbo lag - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Biochemist - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the car for a month now and have to agree with some of the previous comments about the turbo lag. Also the car does not corner as well as my previous vehicles- maybe due to the rear torsion beam suspension setup. VW service is a hit or miss- so search carefully for a good VW service dept. My selling dealer could not align my car and after 2 tries, went to another VW dealer to have it corrected. Otherwise, interior and exterior is beautiful to look at.

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  Passat Diesel wagon 2004 - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By sandy P. - March 31 - 10:00 am

  GREAT car, avg 42mpg hwy, 35-36mpg city. Fun to drive, lots of poweer. The only thing I dont like is it doesnt have power seats. This is my first VW and it wont be the last.

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  My new wagon - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Manhttnbch - March 11 - 10:00 am

  Just bought a GLX, 4mo and so far its great. ESP is now included standard in 2004. Too early to tell anything related to service but car has been out there a while.

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  Perfect Balance - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By V-Dub Man - February 27 - 2:00 am

  I traded a WRX for my Siverstone Gray wagon and Im not looking back. Its the perfect balance between fun and practicality. The low-lift gate will hold two golf bags nicely (with the rear seats down)and thats a "biggy" for me. The car handles great on the twistys yet it cruises in great style on the interstates. And you feel like your in a much more expensive car. The Monsoon sound system completes the package. The fit/finish and paint are top drawer (see $100K Phaeton). The manual shifter is silky smooth and really complements the 4 cylinder turbo. right now Im a "Happy Camper"; I just hope it lasts!

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  Not cost effective - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Unhappy With Passat - February 27 - 2:00 am

  The running lights have been replaced four times during the first year of ownership. Ive been told by the V.W there is nothing that I can do but continue replacing head lights. The breaks squeak since the first month of purchase. I was told by V.W due to the rotor material the vehicle makes squeaking noices when the vehicle stops.

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  Great Car for the Price - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Jeff M. - February 22 - 10:00 am

  After seeing a promotional add offering rebates, I checked out the Passat, and Im glad I did. Having had the car for only several weeks, I cannot comment on the long-term reliability, but my initial impressions are very positive. The car handles extremely well, and the interior noise level is quite low in both city and highway driving. The styling is a bit bland, but the build quality appears to be very good. Im 6 and had no problem in finding a comfortable seating position with excellent headroom. Controls are clearly marked, well-lit at night, sturdy and very intuitive.