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 41 through 50 of 350.00

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  Ive lost faith - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Peter - December 12 - 10:33 am

  I bought this car in July of 2004. The car was great until the winter came and it got cold. When it got below -20 C the car would not start. VW had such confidence it would start at this and colder temperatures that at the time it did not make a block heater for the car. Big mistake. The car was unreliable and has left me stranded several days in a row when it was cold and would not start. I since got rid of it and bought a Subaru. I will never buy a diesel car again in an area where it gets below - 20 C. This car is for only 3 seasons and not four. I have since read that VW has had numerous complaints about cold temperature starting problems.There now is a recall in effect for the fuel pump.

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  Fantastic - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By VWman - December 9 - 2:00 am

  This is a wonderful car and my first vehicle. It is sporty enough to keep me happy but calm and luxurious to please passengers. The styling both interior and exterior is excellent- there arent many other cars in the world that look as classy as this.

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  Excellent Internet Buy! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By La Chula de Coban - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Upgraded from my 2000 Jetta, and paid less in 12/03 than I did for the Jetta in 06/00, and the Pasat has more expensive features (leather interior, 6 air bags, for example)! I found that Internet salespeople work on a salary, not commission: one saves a bunch! The 2004 Passat has a wealth of creature comforts & great engineering.

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  I love my Passat! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Jalli427 - November 22 - 10:00 am

  My Passat has been a pleasure to drive from day one, and now at 10,000 miles it remains so. I drive a lot for my job, and I look forward to getting in my car and taking off on a cruise. Its attractive, classy and responsive. It also handles amazingly in tough situations. Nice audio system, too. Need I say more?

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  Great Car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Sean - November 17 - 6:23 am

  We have really enjoyed our new Passat. We test drove a manual and found it to be quite jerky and slow out of first gear. The automatic has the same brief slow start but is much less jerky. The car rides very well and looks great. It is comfortable to drive with good lumbar support and it really has a nice solid feel on the road. Some people have noted that the engine is sometimes confused when entering a freeway and shifts too quickly and does not approach top speed quickly. Ive found that if you let it accelerate with moderate application to the gas pedal and then punch it at about 35-40 mph it will really go. We zip past other cars on the freeway without a pause.

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  Really fine car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By JB2004 - October 28 - 2:00 am

  I love the drive and feel of the car. Like the looks, and its a good value for your money.

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  W8 in Arizona - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By jackson - October 26 - 12:20 pm

  I purchased my 2004 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion new after owning 2001.5 Passat wagon. I get about 20 mpg around town (about 3 mpg less than the fuel usage computer reads, however). I expected exciting performance with the W8 engine; but the Tiptronic transmission takes away all the fun. Also, the car will bog down badly (dangerously) if you try to accelerate quickly after braking to a stop (say after coming down a freeway exit). Also, the A/C randomly fails to come on, and the car has to be shut off and restarted to reset. The dealer apparently has no answers for either issue. The OAT readout is 6 to 9 degrees F high. This cars depreciation has been fierce. My wife dislikes the door that come back on her when she pushes it open to get out.

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  Another warning light - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Sharon - October 19 - 2:50 am

  I purchased my passat used last fall. I was really excited to get it. I got a lemon this time. It is in shop about once a month with a warning light on. Already had part of the dash replaced and about 3 software upgrades. Both headlight burned out at the same time. Just turned 50K so the warranty is gone. I am just waiting for the next problem. VW has let me down. I am going back to toyota as soon as I can.

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  Excelent - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Kevin - October 3 - 4:10 pm

  I would never buy any other station wagon. This wagon is more fun then most cars Ive ever had.

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  VDub scores a "9" - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By jwellsnapa - September 15 - 2:00 am

  I really enjoy driving this car, however, it takes some time for the engine to react... it is not as "peppy" as some of the other models. Also, it feels like the car is a little "lopsided" when making sharp turns. However, I would rate this car a 9, and I would definitely test drive this car when looking for a new sedan.