Overview & Reviews

The Volkswagen Passat has long been a favorite among shoppers looking for a little more luxury and style in their midsize family sedan or wagon. For many folks, the Passat has traditionally filled the gap that exists between normal, humdrum family cars and the financially out-of-reach luxury brands. Displaying a classy, restrained style inside and out, the Volkswagen Passat gives the impression of quiet competence, which is borne out by its refined driving character. A quality cabin and competent handling, along with a supple ride, are typical Passat traits.

The latest Volkswagen Passat is the biggest Passat yet and is priced considerably lower than before to more closely compete with mainstream family sedans. There has been some cost-cutting to meet that lower price, though, which means the Passat may be a little less appealing to aspiring German luxury car owners. Still, we think it has retained enough of its premium feel to make a case for itself as a gateway vehicle. As for used Passats, both second- and third-generation models are very good picks.

Current Volkswagen Passat
Available in a quintet of trim levels (S, Wolfsburg, SE, Sport and SEL), the current Volkswagen Passat boasts many of the qualities that have drawn folks to German cars in the first place. The well-controlled, buttoned-down ride quality is one, while its restrained exterior styling is another. The cabin, though not quite as special as that of VW's CC or the old Passat, is still one of the nicer environments to be found in the class. It's also one of the most spacious, with plenty of rear seat legroom and a large trunk.

The base Passat "1.8T" engine is a peppy yet fuel-efficient 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 170 horsepower. It is one of the more appealing engines in the midsize sedan segment, yet the Passat TDI's diesel engine is nevertheless worth strong consideration. Although a tad louder and with more low-end power than the 1.8T, the driving experience is similar enough that its 34 mpg combined fuel economy comes without a drivability penalty. Its highway fuel economy is actually better than what some midsize hybrid sedans can achieve. For those seeking more power, a 280-hp 3.6-liter V6 is also available.

On the move, the Passat is an engaging sedan to drive thanks to its well-sorted suspension tuning, precise steering feel and strong brakes. The car also manages to earn high marks for ride comfort, which is ultimately more important considering the fact that most buyers will be far more concerned with schlepping kids to school or co-workers to lunch than taking a spirited drive along winding back roads.

In total, the Volkswagen Passat is a midsize sedan that's worthy of consideration alongside the stalwart class leaders from America and Japan. While it still mostly looks and feels like a German car, it now has the generous space and attractive pricing expected of an American one.

Used Volkswagen Passat Models
The Volkswagen Passat was completely redesigned for 2012. It is larger and less expensive than the car it replaced, putting it more in line with American expectations for the midsize sedan class. Since that debut, there have been just a couple of notable changes. Specifically, these Passats came standard with a 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine good for 170 hp. It was sufficiently powerful and efficient, but loud and unrefined, making one of the other engines a more appealing used car choice. It was phased out midway through the 2014 model year in favor of the current 1.8T engine. The current Sport trim level and the Car-Net telematics system were also unavailable.

The previous, third-generation Passat was produced from 2006-'10 in sedan and wagon body styles. It was larger than the car it replaced and Volkswagen made an effort to move it upscale, increasing feature content and price. Perhaps as a result, this Passat wasn't as popular as previous versions, but generous passenger space, a high-quality cabin and strong engines should make it a good used car pick.

The standard engine for this third-generation Passat was a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produced 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission was standard and a six-speed automatic was optional. From 2006-'08 a narrow-angle V6 known as the VR6 was optional. This engine pumped out 280 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque, and it could be had with all-wheel drive in the 3.6 4Motion trim. An automatic transmission was standard for the V6.

There were initially four trim levels -- Value Edition, 2.0T, 3.6 and 3.6 4Motion. Even though the lower trims had steel wheels, other desirable features like a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, an auxiliary audio jack and high-quality leatherette vinyl upholstery were standard. The upper trims could be had with luxury features like adaptive xenon headlights, automatic dual-zone climate control and 12-way power front seats.

The short-lived Wolfsburg trim level in 2007 added some extra luxuries and visual distinction to the 2.0T model. For the 2008 model year, the trim levels were renamed Turbo, Komfort, Lux and VR6. For the final two years, Volkswagen dropped the V6, reduced the Passat to just a single (Komfort) trim level and discontinued most of the car's upscale features. A new hard-drive-based navigation system did become available, however.

Overall, our road tests of the time had good things to say about this generation of Volkswagen Passat, from the high quality of its fit and finish to the engaging yet fuel-efficient performance of the turbocharged engine. Tuned more for ride comfort than clipping apexes on a twisty road, the Passat's suspension nonetheless struck a happy balance between a plush ride and athletic handling dynamics.

The second-generation VW Passat was available from 1998-2005. It was a little smaller than the third-generation Passat but was very popular thanks to its tasteful styling, peppy performance and solid Germanic feel. Based on a stretched version of the Audi A4 platform of its day, this Passat offered an unusually upscale feel. From the way the doors shut to the way the car absorbed bumps without drama and confidently carved its way along a winding road, this Passat was one midsize sedan or wagon that was actually desirable. This certainly had an effect on our editors; both the sedan and wagon were Edmunds.com Editors Most Wanted award winners for five straight years, from 2000-'04.

Engine choices included a 1.8-liter turbocharged four called the 1.8T that made up to 170 hp, a silken 190-hp V6 and a short-lived 270-hp eight-cylinder W8. Equipped with the W8, the Passat grew too heavy and expensive to have widespread appeal. During most of the car's run, VW offered 4Motion all-wheel drive as an option on V6 models (it was standard on W8 models). A frugal 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine called the TDI became available in 2004. For used-car shoppers, any Passat should be fine, but those built for 2002 and later are the best choices, as they received updated powertrains and beneficial chassis improvements.

The first-generation Volkswagen Passat (1990-'97) sold in North America isn't quite as desirable as its successor. Although space-efficient, this Passat's styling was boxy and a bit strange, especially during the first five years when it had a grille-less nose. The base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine was not a strong suit in these earlier Passats either, as it was described as rough in nature and was taxed with moving this midsize sedan. A few years after its debut, the Passat received more gusto under the hood in the form of the 2.8-liter, narrow-angle VR6.

User Reviews:

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  High Quality with Performance & Style - 2010 Volkswagen Passat
  By Calif Warren - July 4 - 1:56 pm

  Due to recent Toyota safety issues, I switched to my first VW. From the outset, I was very impressed by the design, performance, and safety ratings of the Passat. The base model has almost everything you need, including a very fine AM/FM/SAT receiver with 6CD changer and above-average speakers. All controls are intuitive and easy to understand, unlike many cars that present a baffling array of buttons. The power is astounding for a 4 cylinder, altho there is a slight hesitation from a stop. It climbs a long 7% grade without any obvious downshifting or effort and easily allows you to merge into freeway traffic from short freeway on-ramps. Handling is superb and the ride is very quiet.

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  My friends call it a space shuttle! - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By Moses - July 3 - 6:46 am

  We just traded in my old and tired 98 Olds Cutlass. After my experience with my Cutlass, I swore never to drive anything American (not that Im not Patriotic, but Detroit needs some overhaul). I was thinking of going Japanese but then the Passat got my attention and I do not regret my decision. This car is impressive. Its build quality is top notch. The stuff that you pay extra for in other cars (including BMW) come standard in this car plus much more. The engines power is adequate but is not as athletic as my other car, a 2000 Maxima SE. Part of that could be from the Passats porky 3,800 lbs. curb weight. But then the Maxima isnt loaded with as many safety features and AWD as the Passat. Go buy one!

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  Electrical issues - poor reliability - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By Christian - July 1 - 12:56 am

  My first passat (1998 model) was replaced through the "lemon law" because engine would stall suddenly and the dealer could never solve the problem. This happened a half dozen times, every couple thousand miles on average. I thought I was unlucky, and gave another chance to this second passat. Now, Im well on my way to going to the lemon law again, because of an oil pressure problem that the dealer cannot fix (after three attempts...). This is too much to be a coincidence.

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  2006 Passat - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
  By J Campbell - June 30 - 11:30 am

  This is my 5th VW, it is the best one yet. I am so very impressed with the 2.0T. The 1.8T had turbo lag they have fixed it with the 2.0T. I could not imagine the 3.6 Passat 280 HP compaired to the 200 in my new 2.0T. The interior is very comfortable. The seats are more plush both in the front and back. Gas milage is as rated both city and hiway.

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  GREAT CAR - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By ATAYLOR61822 - June 30 - 10:00 am

  SMOOTH, SOLID, SAFE, FUN TO DRIVE, WHAT MORE CAN YOU ASK FOR? THIS IS THE ONLY CAR IVE FELT COMFORTABLE IN AT 120MPH

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  Great Car! - 2008 Volkswagen Passat
  By 2008PassatOwner - June 28 - 1:43 pm

  I love my new Passat. The 4 cylinder engine with Turbo rides like a 6 cylinder. Great pick up and cruising speed. The Passat is a classy car with lots of room.

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  So much right in one car. - 2016 Volkswagen Passat
  By Galen Gareis - June 28 - 3:35 am

  I keep my cars 15 to 20 years. So quick study isnt my thing...but thats what you go on when you buy newer and own them for decades. I looked at all the usual suspects in the mid sized / mid priced (like 30K is cheap?) segment. For the record, I drive a 2008 FORD Focus and a 1999 E320 Mercedes so Im shooting for ONE car that jams those two together into a single package. The information gathering is shown below, on this pretty remarkable and overlooked VW PASSAT; http://wardsauto.com/test-drives/vw-s-new-18l-turbo-delivers-efficiency-road-mbs http://wardsauto.com/2015/2015-winner-vw-18l-turbocharged-dohc-4-cyl http://www.greencarcongress.com/2013/08/20130829-ea888.html http://vwts.ru/engine/byt/byt_bzb_1_8_tsfi_eng.pdf If your still with me after looking over the above, this car has ALSO received the top safety pick for cars in its size range. So we have safety, technological sophistication (EA888 1.8L engine and user friendly dash interface), real world economy / mileage with a true sedan shape and efficiency. It doesnt hurt the FORBES study show that the 1.8L PASSAT is a 250,000 mile capable car (http://www.forbes.com/pictures/ehmk45efjfd/7-volkswagen-passat/). The 2016 PASSAT meets or exceeds my E320 in actual space and blows it away in efficiency. Its darn near what my 2008 FOCUS reaches (The FOCUS is a LIGHT 2600 pound car that gets 36-37 MPG average) in mileage!! User reports from doubting Thomass (I was, too!) report 35 MPG in real world use. So this car meets the requirement of a cost effective well built car that gets decent mileage. I didnt need more power than the E320 had, but actually wanted better economy and GOOD power. This engine delivers. Drive one, youll see. The styling is a stark RELIEF to the catfish mouthed and insect derived massive black plastic front ends of todays me too cars. Old fashioned you say? My E320 is 17 years old and still looks sharp as ever and the PASSAT will age just as well. A legacy SEDAN greenhouse shape, not coupe with four doors (see the CC model) is great to drive and live with. Four minutes into the test drive it felt like I owned the car forever. The steering is light but the car is tightly buttoned down offsetting this some. It tracks superbly, too. So it gets tighter as you speed-up but this car is intended to not be "heavy" handed. Why people insist on a sports car attribute across the board when this is a SEDAN Ill never know. Sports cars are occasion cars, this is an every day car. Quiet as my E320, wow. - The brakes are slightly odd, in that the pedal is initially soft but has a good deal of bite, then they quickly firm-up and respond to increased pedal PRESSURE, not movement. They dont droop to the floor, however, but just have some initial softness. Im used to older cars with far less brake circuitry stealing away some tactile feel. - The 6-speed torque converter trans. shifts well, but DOES go to the highest gear as you lift off the pedal. And, it will hunt for the highest gear sooner the lighter you use the pedal. SPORT mode makes it easier to keep it pulling smoothly. This isnt the touted Dual Clutch, and doesnt have problems common to DCT, either. 38 MPG and 25 MPG in town say its still efficient. - The interior of a car should be nice, and also easy to keep clean. Doors that open into the rain and snow should NOT be covered in material that stains (cloth, suede, ETC) in my book. A-pillars and B-pillars should also be easy to clean as these are natural grab handles for dirty hands. I like the PASSATs choice of high grade vinyl or TPE (it is hard to tell if it is a TEP or TPR) as it is good feeling yet easy to clean. This is a car, it will get dirty! Let me clean it please...and yes they did. - Seating is excellent minus the ability to tip the seat bottom cushion up or down. But, the angle is correct as is and few will really see need to move it. If you do, you cant. The steering wheel has more than ample up-down and in-out to suit even my 48" wifes reach. This car as a good range of fit for about any driver. - The new electronic dash is nice but better yet, the HVAC are still DIALS and BUTTONS! YA! so quick get in and go on cold mornings is easy. The secondary controls are touch screen items. There are a series of buttons on the side of the display that get you close to where you need to go, too. This is a very good "hybrid" execution. Not too much in the way of buttons (crowded dash) and not too few (clean but hard to use / navigate). My premium model has the FENDER that is well rated. - Im not a fan of the bigger wheel, that I thing are stupid on an every day car. They are heavier, more prone to damage and expensive for what? Slightly better racer boy response (seldom) and looks (mostly). Count me out, I think that the 17" 55 series wheels are far more realistic in everyday use. Far cheaper, wear longer and better riding. Oh, huge 15.9 foot cubed trunk and 18,5 gallon tank.

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  07 passat, 2.0t auto - 2007 Volkswagen Passat
  By Brian Corkery - June 27 - 9:46 pm

  Build quality is simply bad, drivers foot pedals are off set to the right of center, this means your right leg rest against the panel in the right side of the foot well. Tons of squeaks and rattles with 10,900 miles on it now. Seat warmers have no easy to see LEDs to see at a glance if they are on. Seats are extremely comfortable though. I was skeptical initially but the performance and economy are great with the automatic. Headlights are wimpy I had a 95 VR6 that had 206,000 miles on it. Theres no way on earth this 07 will last that long

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  passat glx v6 - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By gypman - June 27 - 2:00 am

  This car is really fun and easyto drive, and comfortable, too. I love adjustable seats. I handles beautifully and climbs hills effortlessly.

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  Mileage & Fender Problems: READ THIS - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By Mike Kurry - June 27 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I love this car but have two major complaints: 1. The mileage is 14 city / 22 highway - weve spoken to Boston VW about this - they say nothing can be done. Given that VW still adverstises 19/26, we feel deceived. 2. The rear fender is terrible. It dents at the slightest contact, like cheap plastic with the paint coming off. Look at the fender of a VW on the street.