2006 Volkswagen Passat Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.33/5 Average
403 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The VW Passat has been redesigned inside and out for 2006. The current version is 3 inches longer and 3 inches wider than its predecessor, with a more spacious cabin. Initially, VW will offer only a sedan, but the wagon rejoins the lineup later in the 2006 model year. Engine choices include the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.6-liter V6; last year's diesel engine option has been dropped. Trim levels have been renamed and recast; the Passat now comes in Value Edition, 2.0T, 3.6 and 3.6 4Motion trims.

Pros:
  • Powerful engines, excellent ride and handling dynamics, roomy and upscale interior, outstanding build and materials quality, available all-wheel drive.
Cons:
  • V6 models are expensive compared to Japanese rivals.

User Reviews:

Showing 141 through 150 of 403.00
  • Pleasure to Drive - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Compared to other comparably-priced sedans (Camry, Accord, etc.), Passat drives like a sports car, with plenty of acceleration ability (even without the 3.6L engine) and steering control. It may not be perfect (check engine light goes on and off intermittently) but it is a great, fun car to drive.

  • Smokey the Passat - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    My wife and I test drove the vehicle and made our deal on this used Passat. The Carfax looked clean and required maintenance was accounted for. We signed a drove home. We then took our daughters for a ride and returned the vehicle to the drive. Fifteen minutes later we started the car. Smoke poured from the hood. The car died. Towed to the dealer and fixed. Not an auspicious start. We had it less than 1 hour. At any rate, it was repaired and runs fine. Coil burned out. Other than that debacle I like the vehicle. For now it has to prove itself to be reliable. After that flame out in the driveway that might be hard for this buggy to do. She does fly though with the Turbo!

  • LEMON. PERIOD. - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Where do I even start. First off, DO NOT buy this car. I had this vehicle for almost five years and it is indescribable the feeling I had when I got rid of it. Never will I stray from Honda or Toyota again. There is a reason there are so many Hondas on the road and very few VWs. I learned the hard way. This car consistently broke down and needed repairs. Not cheaper, either. The air compressor went out twice, cold air return motor died, and numerous recalls. I honestly still cant believe a car could be so bad. On the bright side, I tell anyone who will listen how awful my experience with VW was. I have convinced at least 30+ people to never buy a VW with my previous experience.

  • Three weeks of ownership, Three Times Being Serviced - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    The air conditionint in my new Passat went out after 400 miles and the emergency brake got stuck at 1,000 miles. The dealer needs to replace the switch ( 2 weeks waiting time). Also, my car has rattles in the dashboard and as of today, drivers door as well. It has loud wind noise. I guess they dont make them like they used to. This is the last VW I will ever buy.

  • Disappointing - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I bought this car for quality. But have not received anything but aggravation. What a big lie that Germans build quality. Since I bought this car I been taking it to the dealer for electrical problems. Too many to list. And forget about vw to help, all they tell me "Im sorry to hear that you having trouble."

  • Run for the hills - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Ive owned this car from new and from week one, yes week one, its been in the shop. After having this car for almost three years now, I cant remember a time when I wasnt making plans in my schedule to take it in. Heres a short list: 3 nav units, satellite replacement, CD changer, airbag sensor, battery, window controller, almost all of the "soft touch" pieces on the interior, ashtray lid, catalytic downpipe assembly, front suspension parts, brake parts,rear trunk springs, fuel sending unit, 2 speakers and Im sure I forgot a few! This car is worthless! Its value has decreased so fast my head spins, and its no surprise if you read the reviews. Im trading it ASAP. Ill never buy VW again!

  • Excellent family car with an edge - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    As a Volkswagen fan for many years, I was pleased to see that the new 2006 Passat still had all the great features that I had come to expect from Volkswagen. This new Passat also has many fetaures I wasnt necessarily looking for, but now find I cant live without, such as the cool push-button in-dash ignition system, the drivers side glovebox, and the in-door umbrella holder. Its also a cool and sexy looking car, one that belies the insane size of the trunk, the 30+ highway MPG, and the incredible safety and reliability. This is not only an excellent family car, but a great "cool" car as well, and I dont have to feel like a soccer mom just because its safe!

  • Biggest Piece of Crap I have ever owned - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I bought this vehicle in Germany over a year ago. In the past year I had over 2600 dollars in repairs. Not routine maintenance, but repairs. It ate oil....there was never a leak, but the oil would disapear. The maintenance lights would appear magically after repairs were completed. I purchased the VAG COM diagnostic program to stem the cost of the regular repairs which were required for safe operation of this money pit. I was throughly disappointed that I sold my 06 Ford Focus. But I was able to unload this clunker to purchase a 2011 Chevy Equinox. I will never buy a foreign car again!

  • Capacity Performance Quality Efficiency - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Owned 3.6L since new. 40k miles and a great car. Never stranded, no major issues. Get amazing MPG on the highway; e.g SF to Tahoe - avg 28 to 30 MPG City 16 to 18 depending on driving style. Solid NO rattles! Remember this was German built. Capacity! Folding rear seats can fit 7ft plus items. Rear facing child seat & still leg room in the front. No issues in a year or more. Park sensor beep in rain issue was fixed now no issues. Comp update – hesitating acceleration gone. Performance, handling, features, quality unmatched. More HP & Torque than BMW 330, can take it any. Styling has held well, granted not as great as a BMW but sacrifice a little vanity for HP, room, cup holders, features.

  • Lemon - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I have owened the car for a month and so far it has been in the service shop for three weeks. It has braken and and had engine problems and the service is extremely poor. This is my fourth Volkswagen but it will probably be my last.

Volkswagen Passat Reviews By Year:
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