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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  2003 GL Wagon 1.8L Manual - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By philzone - December 15 - 10:00 am

  Very happy with my purchase overall. Unfortuately, one wheel was unbalanced by 2.5 oz. when I drove it off the lot, but did not notice until I was on the interstate. Initial gas mileage is not quite as good as expected, perhaps more time will tell. Also was extremely difficult to find as a 5-speed manual, but I eventually got what I wanted after waiting till 2003 models. Excellent and responsive engine and tight suspension, with the cargo room I was looking for without buying an SUV or minivan.

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  LOVE This Car - 2015 Volkswagen Passat
  By lesliebriar - December 14 - 10:21 am

  I absolutely love this car. Ive had 2 jettas in the past and traded my last jetta for a scion tc.....was not worth it. I had the tc for 2 years and getting that car was the worst mistake ever. It was a good car, but going from a vw jetta that had all the bells and whistles to a scion tc that had basically nothing, I couldnt do it. I went to my local VW dealership about 2 months ago and traded it in on the 2015 VW Passat TSI SE 1.8T and my life feels complete now. I wouldnt trade back to save my life. I love the power this car has. The interior is over the top. I just love everything about this car.

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  The Wow Factor - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By David Morelli - December 12 - 9:46 am

  I was not sure about buying a car known for its hippie genre. Then my wife convinced me to try it out and give it a drive since she had a VW in Argentina that she said was great. I was so impressed by the way the car handled. It seemed that the faster I went the better the drive got. I am a firm believer now and have been now for 6 years and 4 different VWs.

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  I booted my Audi A*L for this car!! I AM IN LOVE - 2013 Volkswagen Passat
  By trdking - December 11 - 3:12 pm

  I test drove the gauntlet looking for a replacement for my A8L looking for something that was sporty, smooth, comfortable, and would give me a more green environmental look. Face it the A8L is a gas pig at 18mpg and It did not fit with my new business model. GO GREEN. I drove the Prius, Leaf, Volt Eh not so much. I mean they are green but they just all feel tight like a smart car with a different flare. I did drive the Jetta Hybrid turbo gas electric and I really liked it! but too small felt like a sardine in a can. I am 6feet 250lbs. The Passat TDI SEL is a perfect car for someone who is used to driving a luxury car that wants to just do better things for the environment.

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  Pretty Good - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
  By Marc - December 10 - 9:46 am

  Ive enjoyed driving the car but not quite as much as the 2004 Passat 6-cyl. The two things that really need change on my new Passat are the console cup holders (they are useless) and the key should have a ring so when you valet the car and you take the valet key there is something they can hang the key on. I had a valet misplace the key but it was found.

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  My Dads Volkswagen - 2014 Volkswagen Passat
  By 2gtiguy - December 8 - 9:10 pm

  Like the title says, this really is my dads Volkswagen. I traded in my 12 GolfR for this after my dads glowing review of his 13 TDI SE. This is my 4th VW, and Im as happy as ever. Build quality is top notch, with a lux leather/suede combo for the seats, and upgraded faux woodgrain for the 14 model. Gas mileage (why we buy these) is better than advertised. On 85 miles of mixed driving yesterday, I averaged 43+mpg when I parked at my door. The Fender sound system is great, and Bluetooth seems more clear than in my GolfR. The leg room in the back is incredible, and theres quite a bit of trunk space (though not as much vertical space as you might hope). Overall, Im thanking my dad.

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  2006 VW Passat 2.0T - CPL - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
  By CARLVR - December 8 - 6:13 am

  So far, Ive run into a few issues...some cosmetic, some mechanical. Some of the pwr lock/window buttons were blistering, and the leather on a rear door panel began bubbling. All was covered under manufacturer warranty. The dealership that the vehicle was purchased through misinformed me of the expiration date of the manufacturer warranty and this was during some expensive repairs. If you own a 2006+ Passat, check your spare tire compartment! I found 6 inches of standing water in the compartment! Supposedly this is fairly common. Although the dealer would never admit it. WHEN the cars runs, its great! Now, I will only buy a new VW for the warranty and service maintenance. NO MORE CPL HASSLE

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  Just got my Passat TDI SE - 2012 Volkswagen Passat
  By cracovia - December 8 - 5:29 am

  Two days ago I picked my 2012 Passat TDI SE. Did not fancy more options than those that came with the standard options package. Did not care much for a motorized glass sunroof that one has to take if one wants a 6 speed GSD transmission, but accepted it after trying how it works on a demo car. The car is phenomenal. On the way to work (20 miles one way) twice in the row I got an average of 45 mpg. hitting in some places 50.8 (what the gage said anyway). The inetrior is as roomy as my old 2003 Infiniti I35 that I was parting with. Got as many or more features. Quiet, soft but sensible ride, good road adhesion and styling. If f you have to chose between this car and Camry or Accord buy TDI.

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  VW makes history in bath - 2002 Volkswagen Passat
  By tinman - December 8 - 2:00 am

  This car is a well handleing, great acceleration, easy and fun to drive car. Its low to the ground so it hughs like no outher, the dash makes it feel like your in a world of your own.

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  Great Driving Disapointing Ownership - 2000 Volkswagen Passat
  By Jrivard - December 8 - 2:00 am

  Ownership experience: Check airbag light: worked on 3 times before resolution Batteries : 3 (The car has 30,000 miles) Dead electrics on left rear door 2 times in the shop before resolution. CD Changer: dead 2 months after warranty expired. Windshield washer fluid leaking in the tailgate 6 months out of warranty. Interior dome light switch: falling off 6 months out of warranty. Wooden Shifter handle: cracked 6 months out of warranty. All of this is simply inexcusable for a car in this price range.