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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  I WOULD BUY IT AGAIN - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By Industree Wiz - November 28 - 10:00 am

  For a 1.8L, ride is similar to a 3 series Bimmer. Cornering, braking, comfort and acceleration are oustanding. Electronic monitoring and control system do work. Controls are adequate (could be better). Excess heat in cabin forces a/c use in the summertime, useful at wintertime. Interior would be better if provision were made for storage of CDs, MDs and audiotapes. Otherwise, it is a pleasure to enjoy German engineering in this nifty well-equipped package.

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  Great Wagon can compete with the best - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By frederik - November 28 - 8:03 am

  Was looking for a wagon and found it in the Passat. The interest rate and the fact it was a CPO was another great decision. Despite some different opinions on the 2002 models, I believe this is a solid car. I could not get the diesel wagon may be next time premium model will do :).

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  Passats are Lemons - 2003 Volkswagen Passat
  By tallbrunette - November 28 - 4:03 am

  Please check out Consumer Reports before buying a used or new Passat. In May I had to put in a new battery, I was told by VW that it had to be replaced. A month later or less I had left it in the airport and the battery was dead again. I was told by VW ALL car batteries need to be jumped if left for 3-4 days (I am not lying). I had to bring the car back five times before it was corrected. I cant tell you the time, money and frustration and most of all stress this has caused me. I have owned three Volvos and have NEVER had such problems. I also had to put in new brakes within 20,000 miles. Go for the proven cars - Toyota and Honda. This car is planned to be obsolute at 50,000 miles.

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  I love my new car! - 2007 Volkswagen Passat
  By Jaime - November 27 - 11:13 pm

  I LOVE my new car! This is my second Volkswagon. My first, 2001 Cabrio, was not great whatsoever. I was a little bit iffy on getting another Volkswagen but Im glad I did. Its been great!

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  Passat W8 Wagon - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By flyt34planes - November 27 - 11:23 am

  Overall our W8 is awesome. It rides and handles as if it is on rails. The scary part is that the faster you go, the car doesnt get louder. Our family feels very safe and secure in the W8. It is still under warranty - nothing major yet has gone wrong, but a few annoying little things. The worst "feature" is that the hatch requires a separate action to open, even if all of the doors are unlocked.

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  keys - 2007 Volkswagen Passat
  By captainandrea - November 26 - 10:00 am

  Just inherited an 07 Passat which is a lovely car but dont know if I would have chosen to purchase it. The first ordeal was the keys had been lost and the car had been garaged for 2 years. It took 3 trips (of 120 miles round trip) to visit the nearest dealership to get "keys". First I ordered a little black plastic thingy that had to be programmed to the vin# ($67) to open the car - no keys found inside. Then I had to order the outer remote key ($130) THEN I HAD TO TOW THE CAR to the dealership to have it programmed all together!!!!!! The entire ordeal took one week and cost me more than $500!!! SO DONT EVER, EVER LOSE YOUR "KEY"!!!

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  1st and last - 2006 Volkswagen Passat
  By steelcat - November 25 - 12:36 am

  For 1st several months loved it. Then radio, door handles, lock buttons replaced. Then Major repairs, fuel line changed 2x, motor taken out to be worked on, recalls, having to take time off, then air compressor and condenser out. This was after I was over warranty at 55,700 miles only 2 years old. Cost to repair in excess of $2000. I was concerned early on about problems that I was experiencing but only recourse was to let it be fixed while under warranty. After warranty is up, beware, expect problems, cost to repair is very high. VW corp. Did offer me a $1000 voucher towards the purchase of a new VW/Audi. No thanks, traded on a Toyota! Disappointed in quality of VW, loved this car but had to go.

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  Love this car - 2015 Volkswagen Passat
  By TJ - November 24 - 8:37 am

  Ive only had this car for a week but Im in love. Purchased mine with under 33k miles. For the most part she rides like butter. Its taking some adjustment after driving 2 manuals for the last 11 years. This car isnt at all my usual style as I normally choose a smaller, sportier car. In fact, I purchased this is lieu of the Mazda3 Id chosen. The power and room sold me. Pros: classic and elegant looking and VERY roomy. Feels high quality yet minimalist by design. Tech and navigation are simple and adequate. Great speakers. Cornsilk leatherette and nickel interior looks high end (mine is in minty condition 3 years later). Lots of features on my TSI SE. Fast! I leave people in the dust:) I dont see tons of these on the road unlike Kia and Hyundai. Cons: Seats lack padding and are not at all plush. MPG isnt as good as I thought it would be, though not too bad. Sport mode has choppy shifting and the tranny is quirky sometimes. Hate VW dealership customer service so far. Love this car and would recommend this non diesel version.

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  This is a disappoinment - 2001 Volkswagen Passat
  By ken - November 21 - 7:56 am

  I bought this vehicle as new. Great style, works fine in two years until last year when suddenly the oil light came on 4000 miles after last oil change, took to the dealership and they told me the engine is burning oil in 1 qt. per 1000 mile, which I suspect even higher, the warranty forfeited because I didnt keep all the oil change record. the maintenance is fairly expensive overall, I took the car to the same dealership recently for battery change and it cost $400. I already regret buying it and am telling my friends not to buy it.

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  Great car, lousy service - 2012 Volkswagen Passat
  By dplok1 - November 21 - 5:07 am

  It disappoints me to write a negative review since this is a great car, but, the electrical problems, dealer service, and VW of Americas poor service are genuine issues. For the first 5K miles this car was outstanding. After that it began having unusual issues -- seat belt warnings for no reason, losing Infotainment presets, cruise control switching off, instrument cluster resetting to factory settings, etc. Several trips to the dealer resulted in repeated "We just cant find the problem". Eventually, the instrument cluster began returning to zero everytime the car was turned off so I no longer know its actual mileage. VW claims it was designed to do this. Still not working.