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 321 through 330 of 350.00
  • WOW - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    This car is the best in class. I compared everything from Acura to VW and this car for the price has the most bang for your buck. I love it, and I am sure you will to. Everything from the side impact air bags, to the heated mirrors(great for the cold weather places). The air condition is like a snow storm in Buffalo. The heat is like Hades for those cold winter nights. The inside of the car is so quiet with the radio off that you can hear a pin drop, no road or outside noise.

  • The Best Car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I am 16 years old and this is my first car and it is spectacular. Although i do not have much experience with cars i have yet to find a flaw in this beautiful machine. Go ahead and get yourself one of these babies and the chicks (or hunks) will be all over you!!!

  • economy plus zip - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    We wanted good fuel economy (and get about 36 mpg on open highway @ 65 mph) with enough power to handle acceleration for merging and passing. The 170 hp in the 1.8 turbo met our requirements and we thoroughly enjoy our vehicle.

  • too new to review... - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    So far so good... I have been very impressed with the way the car drives. It is always wanting to go faster! Love the interior and the design.

  • Disappointing - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    It is a typical VW, it is a wanna-be Audi or Porshe. It has some great features, but is short on design and quality. The metal dents really easily, and the paint is poor. The car has had two recalls already. I love to drive, and this car makes me want to drive less. If you are smaller in stature, it probably will work for you, but forget the tall people.

  • What a mistake - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Ive driven Volkswagens since 1982, time to move on! The lease was up on my Golf so I took advantage of a special lease deal on the Passat. MAJOR MISTAKE. Warning lights on the dash signal impending doom and then just reset at random, Dealer says just ignore no big deal. Car cant track a line down the road, wanders off on every bump, joint, and groove(Steering Suspension and/or Tires?), Dealers answer, deflate the tires!! Car is hard to control when it is windy,(I live in a windy state!)car changes lanes before steering inputs have any effect! Dealers answer, see above. Newest fun, gas fumes coming in through vents immediately after start up, to the dealer again! Internet search, LEMON LAW!

  • Best vehicle I ever owned - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Reading review after negative review I wonder whether I was just lucky, or whether my experience is more representative of the norm. My Passat was totalled last summer when a tree blown over by a storm crushed my garage (of course the Passat was in the garage). My experience? 95,000 miles with only 2 service matters. Fuel pump failed at 88,000. Parts and labor < $300. Replaced one CV boot at same time as a precaution. Parts and Labor also about $300. Thats it. Outstanding performance and handling. Understated but elegant interior. Good ergonomics. Seats were firm but wonderful for long trips.

  • Silver Ride - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    This is just an awesome car to drive. Im a former Accord owner and I think my Passat is a much better car than the Accord was.

  • Miss My Smaller Cars - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I bought the VW Passat 4-Motion because I drive 35,000 - 45,000 miles per year, at times in poor weather conditions. The 1.8T engine has adequate power, and accelerates well after a brief turbo lag. The ride is relatively sedate. The car does not repsond quickly in turns, and is less fun than expected on twisty roads. In a recent ice storm that paralyzed Raleigh the 4-Motion worked perfectly. I was even able to stop and start on a steep, ice-covered street without incident. It performs as intended-a comfortable work car that is safe and gets 27 mpg combined. Other vehicles that I considered were the Volkswagen GTI or Acura RSX. I chose the bigger car for the better ride quality. I should have gotten a car that is more fun to drive.

  • Great car! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I test drove so many cars before the Passat and was immediately sold. I love everything about this car, and am so happy with my purchase. I love to drive this car and have found nothing negetive about it. I have and will strongly reccomed it to anyone I know shopping for a car.

Volkswagen Passat Reviews By Year:
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