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:

• 

  03 VW passat GLS 1.8T Sedan - Great Car - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By 2003 VW passat - December 9 - 12:33 pm

  I have had this car since Jan 2009, and this is the most comfortable car I have ever sat or driven in. The only problem I have had since buying the car was a CV boot which was just a month ago and it was torn and needed to be replaced asap. So I recommend to you VW owners to not go to a dealership for ANY repairs including headlight/tail light bulbs & oil changes unless you want to pay up the butt in bills. Find a car mechanic. The only thing I dont like about the car is that the headlight bulbs are hard to find and replace. My advice to VW owners is to not to go to a dealership unless that is your last option! I love my car and I guess I was just lucky compared to other reviews.

• 

  Fantastic - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By VWman - December 9 - 2:00 am

  This is a wonderful car and my first vehicle. It is sporty enough to keep me happy but calm and luxurious to please passengers. The styling both interior and exterior is excellent- there arent many other cars in the world that look as classy as this.

• 

  CAnt stop smiling - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By AlexWalex - December 8 - 10:00 am

  Moving from 98 Passat to 2001 and 1/2 Passat was a pleasure. More power, outstanding ergonomics, excellent handling.

• 

  A Pleased New Owner - GLS Wagon - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By JBR - December 8 - 10:00 am

  I was originally considering the Jetta GLS with the Lux/leather options. Then I drove the Passat and I had to go for it. The base model suits me just fine. I really LOVE this car. The 5 speed is fun to drive and the Monsoon sound is the best. It feels like a much more expensive car. The ride is rock solid. I had an Audi 200 (1990) before this and feel that I traded up to the Passat. The amenities are plentiful. I especially like the lights under the door panels which illuminate upon exit and entry. I obviously, highly recommend this vehicle.

• 

  THIS IS A 4? - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By WSK - December 7 - 2:00 am

  When we first test drove this vehicle, i couldnt believe it was a four cylinder. After that, I couldn,t justify the extra $2300 for the six. The car has been fantastic. Why would anyone pay all the extra money for the Audi? The build quality is absolutely first-rate; it gives my CLK cause for alarm. ( just kidding MB )

• 

  What a Dream.. - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By JNGALT52 - December 7 - 2:00 am

  I looked at the Volvo 60 and the Passet. No contest. I am in sales and am in my car all day long. The car is very comfortble and the 4 cyl. Turbo along with the 5 Speed Tip-Tronic Auto gets my car up to freeway speed in a flash. Fit and finish is excellent. I am very pleased with this car.

• 

  Love it - 2015 Volkswagen Passat
  By Corey Miller - December 4 - 4:32 pm

  Maintainance costs are high but worth it with the fuel mileage

• 

  Impressed with VW now.... - 1999 Volkswagen Passat
  By knightflyr - December 3 - 2:00 am

  I never thought of owning a VW till I bought this one..One word WOW!! The German craftmenship is outstanding. Just drive one and make your own decisions.

• 

  Excellent Internet Buy! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By La Chula de Coban - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Upgraded from my 2000 Jetta, and paid less in 12/03 than I did for the Jetta in 06/00, and the Pasat has more expensive features (leather interior, 6 air bags, for example)! I found that Internet salespeople work on a salary, not commission: one saves a bunch! The 2004 Passat has a wealth of creature comforts & great engineering.

• 

  One Year Review of 2002 VW Passat - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By Bob H. - December 1 - 10:00 am

  My Passat has run problem free for 11 months and 8600 miles. Ride is smooth and quite on the highway. Highway mileage very good. Averaged 33.8 MPG on a recent 600 mile round trip. Turbo is smooth on the highway a bit of turbo lag in city driving. Overall quality of vehicle is excellent. My only complaint is the comfort of the seats. I previously owned a 1997 Passat GLX with leather seating and those seats fit like a glove. My 2002 has the leather seating option but the seats are not very comfortable on long trips. The seat bottoms seam short and the 2002 lacks one adjustment in seat bottom that was present in the 1997.