2004 Volkswagen Passat Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.38/5 Average
350 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The big news for 2004 is the addition of a 2.0-liter diesel four-cylinder engine to the lineup late in the model year. The 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is a delayed option on 1.8T-equipped GLS models. Also note that the 2.8-liter V6 is no longer available on GLS models. The premium Monsoon stereo and Homelink are now standard on all GLS models, while wood trim has been added to the optional Leather Package. The ESP stability control system is now standard on the GLX. Rounding out the changes are restyled 15- and 16-inch wheels and new side mirrors with integrated turn signals.

Pros:
  • Fun to drive, excellent value in GL or GLS trim, roomy interior with upscale feel, outstanding build and materials quality, available all-wheel drive.
Cons:
  • Expensive upper-level models, less rear-seat room than some competitors, some confusing interior controls.

User Reviews:

Showing 281 through 290 of 350.00
  • Another VW We Love - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Wife retired / traded in a VW Cabrio and GMC Envoy for our Passat. It is fun to drive with surprising acceleration. It has plenty of room to take our doberman (and her crates) to dog shows. Important points in our decision were that this car is a VW Certified used car and our dealers service dept. is second to none.

  • VW Passat, a great performer - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    At sixty-one years of age, I have owned quite a few automobiles and trucks. Having purchased my first Volkswagen in 1980, a Jetta, I have driven nothing else since. I bought the 2004 VW Passat GLX 4Motion for my wife in November of 2003, and had only one complaint. That complaint was precipitated by the "clunk" that transmission made when downshifting. However, a software update cured the problem, and we have had nothing but positive experiences with the car since. This is, without question, the most comfortable, best handling (for its size), and most reliable automobile that I have ever owned. I recommend the Passat to anyone who wants a high-quality car at a reasonable price.

  • The Perfect Car! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    After 1 Year of heavy driving I now believe I have the best car I have ever owned. Great fit and finish, great fuel economy, quiet and powerful. I researched this car using Edmunds and the reviews sold me. However, I wanted to wait a year and 30,000 miles to rate my experience with the car. Reviews that complain about it being underpowered and expensive to maintain must be mistaken. This car drives like the day I bought it: and I live in the hottest part of the South. 40 MPG around town w/AC on Max! 48 Hiway! 500+ miles on a tank of fuel. Finding diesel no problem in SouthEast. Wont trade this puppy for years to come!

  • Passat W8 sedan is great ! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Americans dont understand how really great this car is. Audi Quattro performance and comfort for a fraction of the price (They are both made by the same company.) Larger than an A4 and smaller than an A6, the Passat is a perfect size to deliver both tremendous agility and interior roominess. The W8 option delivers 270 hp of 8 cylinder performance, with upgrades to the suspension and wheels (but you must order the sports suspension). Ive had more than one BMW and Mercedes. They deliver snob appeal and prestige. But VW/Audi cars deliver performace whether the road is dry, wet or icey. Thats something the first two cant begin to match.

  • 2004 VW Passat GLX (V-6) with auto - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Owned the car 1 month and love almost everything. Con sides: 1. no repeat function on the radio for cassette or CD, 2. separate switch to heat exterior mirrors (should be included in rear window defroster switch), ackward to adjust exterior mirrors, 3. poor gas mileage with auto trans., 4. rear window sunshade should be electric vs. manual. Pros: great handeling, power, options are plentiful and included in base vehicle, 2. heated seats to include back rest, 3, light on bottom of all doors to see where you step, 4) well built car

  • Smooth and understated - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Bought my W8 used after a failed Infiniti trannny from mountain driving in Colorado. After 52,000, it has been my best car to date (Lexus, Infiniti, Subaru). The W8 matched to the auto tranny is as smooth as you get. The handling is refined and very solid. With snow tires, Ive had no problems even in the mountains west of Denver. There have been no mechanical issues and my overall cost of ownership has been lower than expected. 22mpg mostly highway running between 80-85mph. I get tons of compliments on this cars BBS rims and the overall look.

  • 2003 W8 - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    After a year of ownership this W8 has lived up to my every expectation. I have had no problems with the vehicle. Quality, integrity, and performance are excellent. Fuel mileage is better than I expected.

  • Love this car! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I had a 1999 Passat (1.8T) and traded it in for a 2004 AWD. The motor is actually zippier. I looked at the 6cyl but it was only 20 more horsepower for about $4,000 more. The 1.8T is plenty fast enough. I love this car. It is really fun to drive and sticks to the road like glue. It is confidence inspiring on wet roads. My favorite part is how cheap this car is. For what you get it is the biggest bargain on the market.

  • Awesome Passat "love those Germans" - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Great car! We have only had it a month but it is awesome on the road and it has all the bells and whistles. Firm ride with great handling and low end tourque. Monsoon stereo is great! The dash lights up red and blue at night. Its a great look.

  • 4Speed, I dont think so! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Have had the car for 8mo. Has gone through the winter, handles very well. A solid heavy car. I feel very safe. Radio area is confusing, everything is right there. Screen is HUGE sound is great. The front seats are height adjustable, great for tall or short people. Seats easy to clean as they are leather very important with kids. There is a britex wizard car seat in the middle and my husband who is 511 has plenty of room to adjust his seat back. Gas tank great. From Groton CT to Windham ME takes half a tank 250mi. Trunk is huge. Fits a play pen and full size stroller and items on either side of the stroller. Fits a set of suit cases in trunk. I have no problem buying another one if this one is crashed.

Volkswagen Passat Reviews By Year:
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