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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  05 VW Passat - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By Drew - January 9 - 1:20 am

  I am completely satisfied with this car. We upgraded from an 03 VW Jetta so we could have more room for our growing family. It feels sturdy, drives smooth and weve had no problems arise.

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  Fun sporty wagon - 2007 Volkswagen Passat
  By Ken - January 5 - 10:37 pm

  Bought the 3.6 back in 2012 and have loved every minute of it! Very peppy and hands very well. But be warned! After 120,xxx miles this car costs $$$

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  The Good, the Bad and the Ugly - 1999 Volkswagen Passat
  By Paul - January 5 - 4:30 pm

  Purchased my Passat used with 38,000 miles on it. I thought I was moving up in the automotive world and I was, moving up into expensive frequent repairs! If only these cars performed as well as they look. I got hooked on the great exterior and interior design, but the reliability is horrible. Timing belt, ECM, suspension, power steering all have been problematic. Car eats oil for lunch, but doesnt leak. I got a decent price when I sold it, but I felt bad knowing what the new owner would experience owning this car.

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  This car rocks! - 1999 Volkswagen Passat
  By Frank Shard - January 2 - 10:00 am

  My Wagon has 155K on it, and I have not had a single thing go wrong since I have owned it. The tires may have to be replaced with only 35K on them, but I think thats the tires, not the car. It sounds like some of these people got lemons or something, because my passat is rock solid! I think I can easily get 300K out of this car before its all said and done.

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  Best car I ever owned - 2001 Volkswagen Passat
  By irteknishun - January 2 - 10:00 am

  We have had this car for a year. This is the nicest car i have ever owned. This is out of ten. It reminds me of the first car I ever owned which was a 1972 mercedes 280sel 4.5. You know solid and fast. We have had no problems until recintly. Both headlights went poof. I have read in the message boards that this is a 60.00 replacement. We bought this as a certified used car so hopefully they are covered under warrenty.We have the 5 speed. The car is comfortable, stable, and fun to drive. When my wife lets me have it.

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  Pretty Good! - 2007 Volkswagen Passat
  By 13HUNDY - December 31 - 6:10 pm

  At just over 30k miles, I would have to say that this is a pretty good car. Other than regular maintenance (which is more expensive than I anticipated), Ive had it in the dealership to update the ECU once. The build seems solid, and that turbo makes it a blast to drive with good gas mileage to boot. Handling is good, not tight, but not sloppy either. The interior seems very refined, I dont have all the rattles that Ive experienced with other cars. I didnt care for the stock radio, so installed my own. Theres so many "little" features about this car that I just love. I hope it lasts quite awhile.

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  Headache! - 2007 Volkswagen Passat
  By rdnormi - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Second Passat owned, purchased certified pre-owned with 10k miles, and absolutely disappointed. Loved my 04 and for the most part I enjoy the 07 but there are endless issues. Luckily the manufacturer warranty has covered many but having to take the car in every few months is unacceptable. Constant check engine lights, turbo downpipe issues, coil pack issue, etc... Sad to say probably the last VW I will buy.

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  Passat Issues Since Purchase - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
  By Greg - December 30 - 2:16 pm

  After 16,500 miles, I sold my Passat due to the on-going quality and reliability since buying the car 22 months ago. The car has spent overt six weeks in the dealership primarily for a new transmission, new exhaust system and new fuel system. I reached a point with the car that I was afraid to go over normal road bumps. VW did supply me with rental cars. Overall, I would not recommend buying VW. Just too many issues with the quality and reliability. Please do additional research if you are going to buy a VW. Ask mechanics and rental car agencies about their experience with VWs. If you buy one, you should get to know the service manager.

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  Love the car!!/ Leary of the reliability - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By delia21 - December 26 - 10:00 am

  I love everything about my 2001.5 V6, manual! Its looks, the solid feel, the blue lights, even the rear lights. One of my daytime running lights has burned out after 10 months. Seems waaay too early for that. One concern is that the pillar gets in the way when Im try to see, change lanes on the front, right side. Drove a Celica for 13 years. I just hope I can come close to this on my Paasat.

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  Best car under $30,000 - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By C-Dev - December 26 - 10:00 am

  Blows away the competition in overall performance, value, and fit/ finish. You may pay a bit less for a Toyota or Honda, but theyre so boring...they dont have that solid, fun, German feel. It may not be a high-performance sport sedan like a BMW, but youre not gonna find a Bimmer this size for this price.