Overview & Reviews

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.

• Fun to drive, excellent value in GL or GLS trim, roomy interior with upscale feel, outstanding build and materials quality, available all-wheel drive.

• Expensive upper-level models, less rear-seat room than some competitors, some confusing interior controls.

User Reviews:

Showing 291 through 300 of 350.00

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  Rattlebox - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Lemonbuyer - May 26 - 10:00 am

  Purchased new.. dashboard started rattling 1 week after we took delivery. Has been in shop 11 times for that problem alone. Trim moldings come unstuck, we just stick them back on. VW couldnt care less. Consulted a lemon lawyer - not defined as a lemon cause rattle is not considered a defect. What a sad joke. We tried to trade this car in on a Toyota and the best trade price we were offered was $13,500. Pathetic resale and now I know why. Its a heap of junk! I dont know how we are going to sell it privately with a loud rattle in the dashboard! Were going to cut our substantial losses and kiss VW goodbye.

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  Piece of junk - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By susan - April 24 - 1:36 am

  This is the absolute biggest piece of junk we have ever owned. Car broke down on the highway at 70K, engine needed to be rebuilt ( all oil changes up to date ) The interior is falling apart; slats for heat, all outlets to charge cell phones are blown, console between seats never shuts. Just got the car back yesterday and it was dead again by the time I went to pick my daughter up at school. NEVER will buy another VW - I am going to send them all of my bills so they can see what a nightmare this has been. Selling the car - just bought a FORD

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  VW PASSAT 04-SSSWEET - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By EHONDO3 - April 19 - 10:00 am

  CAR IS VERY FUN TO DRIVE,WILL JUST GET UP AND GO, RUNS GREAT FOR A 4 CYL. AUTO. HAD MY SHARE OF SHIFTING GEARS. IF YOU FEEL LIKE SHIFTING YOU CAN WITH THE TIP-TRONIC TRANS. I GOT THE BLUE/SILVER PAINT-BEAUTIFUL, A REAL HEAD TURNER. 1ST GERMAN CAR, BIG DIFFERANCE BETWEEN HONDAS,TOYOTAS. WELL MADE CAR, HAD IT 3-MONTHS LOVE-IT. SO FAR SO GOOD.DRIVE ONE BEFORE YOU BUY.

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  42,000 Miles of Happiness - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Curtson - April 16 - 11:33 pm

  Ive had this car for 42,000 problem-free miles and have enjoyed all of them. It has a 5-speed manual transmission and 4-Motion which has been a great combination (no longer offered) for handling in all conditions. The drivers seat is the most comfortable car seat I have used. I never get sore on long trips. I find the seat in my wifes 2005 Camry to be far less comfortable. The gas mileage has been better than expected: 32 mpg @ 55-60mph, 30 mpg @ 65-70mph. The acceleration is way too much fun. My 18 year-old son doesnt care for the way it looks, but after driving it, said it is a hot car. I no longer let him drive it by himself. I want to drive this car for a long time.

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  Upscale performace with horrible reliablity - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By roznstyle - April 9 - 11:24 am

  Purchased the vehicle brand new in 2/04. Followed the recomended mantenance religiouly. In the years Ive owned the vehicle I was left stranded 4 times and needed to be towed to a garrage. Tow #1 60K miles. Water pump (make of PLASTIC) failed causing the engine to overheat. Tow #2 75K miles. Fuel Pump failure. Tow #3 100K miles. car would not start. Brand new spark plugs were dirty and needed to be cleaned. Simple issue is a major problem when stranded. Tow #4 120K miles. water pump (Aagain!) after inspection, we needed, new water pump, timing belt, tensioners, cam seal, aux fan, main fan bearing, new belts, to the tune of 2K from a reputable 3rd party VW mechanic. Never Again VW!

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  Nice Car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Jim from MA - April 8 - 10:00 am

  Nice car to drive, comfort, features and some power in a midsize car. I love the extras that VW packs in their cars and the 4 motion system is a plus to have in new england. I cant wait to use it in snow. The car has become the household favorite due to features and ammenities. I traded a 2002 Jetta which was nice but small. I like the VW experience. This is an impressive car and i have 13K miles on it after afeww months of ownership

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  Unsatisfactory - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By D. Melton - March 7 - 10:06 pm

  I purchased a brand new German automobile with great credentials and reviews in the safety, performance and reliability categories. Ive been dissapointed from about 6 months after my purchase on. Ive had multiple problems and numerous return trips to the dealership. However, after two years they do have a fix for the trunk. They will install new hinges that actually do not require prying open and then slamming the trunk down. Go to dealership and have them order the new hinges for you.

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  Great Fun Car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By rraleighguy - March 7 - 2:00 am

  After I got smart and left the Volvo cult--I got SOOO much more for my money at VW--The Passat handles great--is a great looking car--definitely the best car Ive ever owned

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  2004 GLX Passat - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By soccmom1 - March 1 - 10:00 am

  Great car to drive. No problems just general maintenence. Nice pickup and better than listed fuel economy. LOVE IT!!!!!!!

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  Wagon: Fun to Drive?? - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By knelson - February 24 - 10:00 am

  After owning more cars than I like to admit, this is a pleasure,fun,family car.Sporty,FAST & classy to boot.Love the speed and beautiful interior.Feels more expensive than it is.Rear seats fold down easily for hauling.The 4 motion saved me the 2nd day I owned it.This car has spoiled me for anything else.Own a Jetta too& will always have a VW in my garage!!