Overview & Reviews

The top-of-the-line W8 model has been discontinued. The GLX loses its standard telematics system. New 16-inch "Rockstar" alloy wheels are standard on the GLS (in place of the former 15s), and new 17-inch "Bistar" alloys are optional on the GLS and GLX.

• Better handling dynamics than most sedans in its class, excellent value in GL or GLS trim, roomy interior with upscale feel, outstanding build and materials quality, available all-wheel drive, unique diesel engine option.

• Upper-level models are expensive compared to Japanese rivals, less rear-seat room and storage than competitors, V6 is down on power.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 166.00

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  VW Passat TDI Wagon, Great Car! - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By Jeff Spahn - November 3 - 11:56 pm

  My 2005 Volkswagen Passat GLS TDI Wagon has been very reliable. I have never had a cold start issue, no matter the temps. This is the last year you can run BioDiesel in the Passat (new 06 Brochure says no to Bio). My car has no smoke and gobs of passing power without a downshift. We live 70 miles from the dealership. I was apprehensive about this at first, but we never need to see them. Being able to go 10,000 miles between oil changes is nice. This car has a super quiet engine. Only the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Diesel is quieter in my experience.

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  Big fun, small dollars - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By traubenberg - June 26 - 11:03 am

  I just recently purchased my 05 Passat GL and I love it. Its got big-car space with small-car moves. In the first week, I averaged almost 24 mpg - and that included quite a bit of turbo- induced fun. During a recent 50-mile morning commute, I got 27 mpg (3/4 highway, 1/4 city). Thats equivalent to the 02 Accord I had, but this car is bigger, faster and less expensive than the Honda was. Im 63" and being able to comfortably fit behind the wheel and have three full-grown adults with me is a huge bonus. My complaints are minor: hate the hubcaps, the stereo is anemic, miss my sunroof. For the money, I think this is one of the best cars out there. The fit and finish is amazing! Go VW!

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  Totally Unreliable Car - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By Olney - April 4 - 6:06 am

  I love the super positive reviews from people who have owned a VW for all of 1 day! Wow, no problems after 1 whole day! Imagine that! Must be a great car! We have had a 2000 Passat 1.8T B5 for 2 1/2 years. Its a great car if you dont mind spending thousands of dollars a year in repairs. It is the most unreliable car we have ever owned (30 years of driving). VW does not stand behind its products. We have been to three dealers and they are incompetent and occasionally criminal. We have no confidence in either our car, VW dealers or VW of America. As a result, we are trading in on an Infiniti this week. I will never buy a Volkswagen again nor can I recommend one.

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  My dream car - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By GABrad2 - November 27 - 1:00 am

  The cars runs well, but the milage in the V6 decreases greatly in city traffic. Also the transmission module failed just prior to a long trip. The car was under warranty, and a dealer took care of the car. The car requires high test gas, which has become quite costly

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  Great little car and fun to drive - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By Otto - September 3 - 5:53 am

  I am very happy with my Passat wagon. It is nimble and a blast to drive thanks to great handling. The turbo motor lacks low end torque, but once you put your foot into it, the car has enough power to get you in and out of trouble. Its highway mileage is also a real plus, but the 91 octane requirement means you need premium fuel. It has good cargo room for its class and the high roof helps out here. The fit and finish are also very good. The interior is austere but very well done, but the glovebox is the only real storage space.

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  So far so good - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By djfllmn - April 23 - 9:06 am

  My dad purchased this car in Feb. of 2009 on the same day that I got my 2003 Ranger. Ive never been much for German cars, but Im slowly starting to like them. I read all of the reviews that mention the sludge problem. They dont change their oil frequent enough. It should be changed every 3 months or 3000 miles and you will be good to go.

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  No Problems-Love it - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By caz - August 13 - 10:33 am

  This is my 2nd Passat; I had an 03 as well and both were purchased new. Ive never had any issues with either of them. The 1st had 97K on it when I sold it, my current has 80K. Im considering waiting for the new Passat CC to come out. I prefer German cars over Japanese.

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  Loved it & now hate it - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By thomasz - July 3 - 12:40 am

  We bought it after our 01 passat starting having problems (bottom pan fell off while on the hwy). The car is great when you do not have any issues. Our passat has been in service for repairs 12 times or more in 3 years. 4 of them I needed to be towed. Had fuel system problems, a/c went out twice (we live in Texas), check engine light blinked several times totally disabling the car (once over x-mas holiday), replaced rear axle beam due to old one bending, & now the oil pressure light came on and showing signs of sludging (found out that sludging is a big problem with the 1.8T engines) and might have to replace engine. We have drove across USA with it and it is unreliable on any type of trip.

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  good - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By shehzad khan - May 17 - 9:20 pm

  the volkswagen passat i have is only 1998 tdi sports, but is very comfortable. I have had 8 cars and iam only 21, the passat has been my favourite of all, comfortable, good handling, good fuel economy, and obviously strong as usual

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  fun to drive, "Monday car" - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By Sofia P - February 23 - 5:40 pm

  I drive 30,000+ miles a year. My new Passat is a repacement from VW for my last years model that was a lemon. My first Passat had engine problenms, molding problems, you name it and it had a problem. It had spent 79 days in the shop during the first year that I had it. VW was great and they gave me a new one. My new Passat drives great and is comfortable. In three months, and 11,000 miles it has only been in the shop for ten days, not including maintance. Next time I will not purchase a VW.