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-
Get one if you still can! - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
By ttocsffej - December 3 - 10:16 pmTorque is the name of the game and it gets very addictive! Our 2005 Volkswagen Passat GLS TDI is our first diesel vehicle, and certainly not the last. Weve owned three other Passats, including the 1.8T (manual and tip) and W8 versions, I can say the TDI / tiptronic combination is by far the best and happiest marriage of fuel economy and power in this vehicle. But the EPA rating of 27/38 is a little misleading. Weve never gotten less than 30 mpg average in town, however, weve yet to get more than 37 mpg in 100% highway driving. 32-34 mpg mixed is average, partly because this baby hums along so quietly at 80 mph / 2,350 rpm! 65 mph yields best mpgs. I have had zero issues / problems at 10K miles! TDI is gone after 2005; get one now if you can find it!
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2005 Passat TDI Wagon - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
By James Witt - October 21 - 8:30 pm2005 Passat TDI Wagon special order exact color, trim, leather, OnStar sets this wagon ahead from everybody. Tiptronic one finger up / down shift, corners flat, smooth ride 29 mpg city.
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TDI Passat is fantastic - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
By Scott M - September 17 - 8:06 amI have owned many VWs. GTIs, Rabbits, Busses and Cabrios. I bought the TDI Passat as a knee jerk reaction to the fuel crisis of 08. Let me just say this is my favorite VW of all. We dumped a Ford Expedition to get this and I only lost maybe 25% usable space. I get 28-35 MPG in the city and 38 on long highway trips. The first thing I did when I bought it was have the software reflashed with an Upsolute package for $450. I now have 50 more ft/lbs of torque and 30 more HP. Undetectable by the dealer, doesnt affect reliability, huge difference on the road. Best $450 you will ever spend. If you want a solid family sized car that is fun to drive that looks good and gets good mileage...Passat TDI!
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Get out of your SUV! - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
By LP - August 29 - 1:26 pmI recently downscaled from an Infiniti QX56, a luxurious, massive, gas guzzling beauty to a wagon? Thats right! Gas is now outrageously expensive and this wagon fit the bill. Almost as much cargo capacity as many SUVs! The Passat Wagon has awesome curb appeal and style, great gas mileage, and all of this for low 20Ks!! The 4cyl turbo engine is surprisingly peppy, fun to drive and one of the quietest cars Ive ever owned. I love the "leatherette" seats...I have two small children and these things clean up great. Both the heat and a/c are VERY strong! Great job VW! This is an Audi A4 wagon w/o the sticker shock! Awesome choice over a minivan - you know what Im talking about guys!
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Passat Review - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
By David Jones - August 9 - 7:23 amI purchased a Passat after driving American made cars and felt I had to take the chance. The stability and control I have, have not been found in an American made vehicle. It is extremely comfortable and quiet and get better mileage than the Ford Focus I drove before. I have much more room, better mileage and look much more impressive in this vehicle.
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Perfect!! - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
By Jim - June 18 - 4:36 amI traded in a BMW 325xi for a Passat TDI Wagon GLS. I couldnt be happier. The fit and finish is exquisite. The TDI engine is a joy to drive. This caqr has loads of low end torque. its handling is excellent. It has a beautiful classic design, quiet interior, and no rattles.
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Go New Clean Diesel - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
By Steve Zinnel - April 20 - 5:23 amThis is my first diesel engine automobile. Recently took a 5,000 mile trip out West. Average gas mileage for the entire trip was 40 mpg. Never once had to take it out of cruise when going up the mountains. The diesel engine is very quiet when crusing at 75 mph on the freeway and doesnt seem to change a bit when going up mountains. I have been very impressed with the comfortable ride and amazed at the gas mileage. I drive about 30,000 miles a years, with a high percentage of those miles on the freeway, and thats why I decided to try the VW Passat for comfort and safety, and the diesel engine for economy. So far it has exceeded my expectations.
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Solid Car so Far. - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
By V-DUB - March 12 - 12:40 pmSo far this diesel has been an unbelievable purchase. I wanted to give it a month or so before I reported on anything. I bought the car used with 122 000 KMS on it. I had the timing belt replaced as well as the transmission oil changed and a new fuel filter so there would be know surprizes. I gotta tell anybody who is reading these reviews.....everything I have read about this Passat TDI is bang on correct. This is the smoothest car I have ever driven, very similar to the Audi A4, excellent on fuel, just PURE enjoyable. I am averaging 45 miles to the gallon or 6.4L/100KMS and better on long trips. I have now owned 5 diesels this is the best so far.
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There Really Is A Difference - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
By Jaimito - March 3 - 1:53 amIf you are all about fuel economy, performance, and safety I am not sure what other choice in this price class you have. The stereo has surprising capability, remember this is a base model. The air conditioning works great and when you need a little get up and go this car never disappoints. My fuel economy for highway ranges in the mid-twenties. Thats only because I have a tendency to punch it a little. I have the leatherette seating and with kids I think it is a must have. This car offers a better range of view then other Veedub models. I like being a little different not pulling up to the party in a Toyota. Oh, and so far my car has had no problems!
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No sacrifices - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
By beachdriver - March 1 - 12:53 pmNo sacrificing quality, comfort or safety in the pursuit of lowering fuel costs. Even the base GL is fairly nicely appointed including above average sound system. Handling is fun, acceleration is astonishing given the 40 mpg highway and 35 mpg combined. This cars body is solid. Judging from forums, I have high expectations for longevity of the engine.
