Overview & Reviews

GLS model vanishes from radar as Volkswagen prepares for launch of all-new Passat in mid-1997.

• Huge interior with lots of leg room, superb seats, excellent road manners

• 2.8-liter V-6 responds sluggishly when harnessed to automatic transmission

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 43.00

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  I hated this car! - 1997 Volkswagen Passat
  By Shushumommy - January 13 - 10:00 am

  I lasted less than a year in this car. I bought it used at 55,000 miles. Many things went wrong right off the bat, but the dealer encouraged me to hang in there with the car and made quite a few of the repairs on the house. Still, I did not trust the car or feel safe in it, and everytime a repair was needed I held my breath. I am turning this car in today and couldnt be happier.

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  Passat Piece of Junk - 1997 Volkswagen Passat
  By Former Passat Driver - June 27 - 1:06 pm

  My 1997 Volkswagen Passat is a completely unexpected bad product from Germany! This is the biggest hunk of junk we have ever owned. We bought it with resonable miles on it. Shortly after owning it all the electronic issues began. VW mechanics removed entire dash to fix some of the problems which reset digital mileage. There goes the equity! I have had so many problems with this thing (I agree with all other comments made here..too many to list...). We thought many times about finding one of the hurricanes and leaving it in the heart of the storm. It has finally died and we will not be sad to say goodbye! Buyer beware...looking at the other years after this car, it doesnt look like Passat has fixed any issues with this car!

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  Stay away! - 1997 Volkswagen Passat
  By A.W. - July 16 - 10:00 am

  Too many problems to specify. This car has been in the shop more times than all the other cars I have owned combined. The electrical system has failed numerous times. The sunroof track has broken four times. The AC and vent system has malfunctioned since I bought the vehicle. Luckily I purchased a used car warranty with the purchase. I have most definitely gotten my moneys worth. I have heard from others who have also owned 1997 Passat wagons who have had as negative experiences as I. I am very VERY disappointed.