2008 Volkswagen Passat Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.68/5 Average
127 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Volkswagen shuffles equipment around, creating Turbo, Komfort (Ja, that's with a "K"), Lux and VR6 trim levels for the 2008 Volkswagen Passat line. Rear side sunshades are now standard on all Passats, as is a power driver seat. Formerly known as the 3.6L, the Passat VR6 gains adaptive bi-xenon headlights as standard equipment. In addition, the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is now standard on VR6 wagons.

Pros:
  • Ample power with either engine, balanced ride and handling, spacious seating for all, elegant cabin with exemplary fit and finish, available all-wheel drive.
Cons:
  • Prohibitively expensive with the V6 engine, options-laden four-cylinder models are pricey, too, excessive road noise with 17- or 18-inch wheels, poor fuel economy on 4Motion models.

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 127.00
  • So much fun - 2008 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I test drove a lot of vehicles, including Acura TL, Volvo 40, Infiniti G35 and the Lexus IS 250. When I prioritized fuel economy, seat comfort for all passengers (12 ways on both fronts, Lux Edition) and fun factor, I kept coming back to the Passat. Ive taken it to Florida and back, averaging almost 34 mpg. Ive had a couple little problems that the dealer fixed right away; the satellite radio was defective and the right rear door mechanism broke inside. This has been a very enjoyable purchase, and I often find reasons to go somewhere now. I have about 8000 miles on the vehicle now.

  • A Wagon Even a Teenager Likes - 2008 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Our son out-grew our A4 Avant and we needed a larger non-SUV replacement. We looked at the A6 Avant, BMW 535 and Volvo wagons. Since we had to have an all-wheel drive and wanted a wagon, it left only a few choices. While not as posh as the Audi or BMW the VW is a steal based on price and standard equipment on the VR6 4-Motion model. If a badge for the neighbors to see isnt a priority this is the best valued german wagon out there and it is a blast to drive compared to its Japanese counter parts. The back seat leg room is great - even comfortable for adults. Cargo space is cavernous. This car handles incrdibly well in the snow and ice even with the stock 18" all season tires.

  • I love my passat! - 2008 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I recently traded in my nightmare of car (Jeep grand Cherokee). I bought my passat a few days ago. Im over the moon! My kids love it. The backseat is roomy. The trunk space is much bigger than I expected. And I love the sound system. The sun / moon roof. And the power! Go Volkswagen!

  • You too can Drive One - 2008 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    "CHAMPAGNE TASTE ON A BEER BUDGET" probably covers everything that you need to know about the new Passat, and for all you non-drinkers, you just plug in your cool key and drive. The value to cost ratio is excellent. I tend not to keep cars for over 3-4 years, so as for reliability, the Passat will probably work just fine or will be covered under warranty. On the other hand, my wife has the C. Beetle and she loves it.

  • so far so good - 32k miles - original owner - 2008 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I have had this car as a lease since 2008. I have had no issues at all, only been to the dealer every 10k miles for oil changes & scheduled service. Lease is about to end so Im trying to figure out if it makes sense to buy the car outright or possibly go for the new 2012 US made version.

  • Great improvement over 06 sedan - 2008 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Traded in my 2006 2.0t sedan for 08 wagon... what a difference 2 years and a wagon has made! The ride and handling are improved, its quieter and looks much better in wagon form (also more practical). The automatic transmission shifts more smoothly too. Gets better mileage than the 06... lets hope the reliability is better as well.

  • EXCELLENT CAR! - 2008 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Ive had my Passat for about a couple months now and I absolutely couldnt be happier, the ride is super smooth even on rougher surfaces, its packed with features and full of space. The transmission shifts very smoothly and road noise is very minimal considering mine has the larger tires and wheels. The cabin feels very upscale, I enjoy that it has an auto hold brake feature, heated seats, and the 6 disc CD changer works flawlessly. The only negative is the chrome trim used around the windows, they oxidized rather quickly and in my opinion VW needs to improve the quality of that material. Besides that the car drives and handles like a dream !

  • No major problems after 2 1/2 months - 2008 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Car handles very well. Great entry level luxury sedan. Would recommend.

  • Ride on - 2008 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I drove multiple other cars in this segment. Chose the Passat after driving Honda, Nissan, Dodge, Mercedes and Cadillac. This car has similar or more features for thousands less. Being a large person- 65, 230lbs- the interior amazes at its roominess. I stayed away from the nav system (mixed reviews), and find the rest of the controls are very intuitive and easy. Build quality rivals any of the others, Japan or European. Mileage very adequate- averaging 25mpg since purchase. A little road noise is noticed at speed, but nothing unmanagable, or unable to be overcome by the fantasic sound system.

  • Should have bought one sooner - 2008 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    What a great vehicle. Fun to drive, great looks, snappy acceleration, corners like a dream, comfortable and simply one of the best buys in my life (and I have owned several Lexus). Should have had these over the years and saved a ton of money. Thanks VW.

Volkswagen Passat Reviews By Year:
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