Volkswagen Passat Sedan

2005 Volkswagen Passat Sedan GLS

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Shopping for a 2010 Volkswagen Passat Sedan? MSRP: $26,995 - $27,195

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Previous versions of the Passat—sold in the U.S. as the Dasher and Quantum in the 1970s and 1980s—were regarded as a little too quirky, but Volkswagen started to hit its stride with the third-generation version that VW brought to the U.S. as the Passat. But it was the next generation, introduced for 1998—that was widely regarded as a home run. These Passats, offered from 1998 to 2005 are based on the Audi A4 platform and offer a choice of a 1.8-liter turbocharged (1.8T) four-cylinder engine or a 2.8-liter V-6. Transmission options included a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic, but the V-6 was only offered with the latter. 4Motion all-wheel drive was also available. Between the two engines, the four-cylinder feels nearly as fast yet is much more fuel-efficient. These Passats have a reputation for top-notch ride, handling, and refinement compared to nearly all other affordable mid-size sedans of the time, but they're tighter in backseat space.  

For a short time in 2003, there was a W8 model of the Passat; producing only 270 horsepower and considerably heavier, this eight-cylinder model was much more expensive than the other models and didn't feel much faster. TDI (turbo-diesel) versions were also offered for a short time; these are generally very desirable because of their excellent fuel economy and plentiful torque.

For 2006, the VW Passat was last redesigned. Built on a completely different platform—this time a stretched version of the smaller Jetta—the Passat still adopted a more conventional transverse front-wheel-drive layout, though as before it was offered with available all-wheel drive. A 280-hp, 3.6-liter version of VW's respected narrow-angle V-6 (VR6) engine was optional, but most models came with the 200-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (2.0T)—both with a six-speed automatic transmission. TheCarConnection.com likes the attractive, spacious interior; very tight, quiet cabin; and responsive powertrains of these Passats. Between the two engines, the 2.0T models remain good picks as they feel very perky yet return around 30 mpg on the highway.

With the introduction of the stylish 2009 Volkswagen CC (originally called Passat CC) for 2009, the Volkswagen Passat lineup was trimmed down, with the VR6 and 4Motion all-wheel drive completely dropped from the lineup. For 2010, only one well-equipped Komfort trim remained, with a very limited set of options.

Throughout the past several generations of the Passat, Wagon versions have been available. These models have typically been offered with most of the same features and options as sedans, but with the added versatility of folding rear seatbacks and increased cargo space. Prior to the current model, Passat Wagons had slightly more road noise than their sedan counterparts.

An all-new 2012 Volkswagen Passat (name not yet certain) will be made in a new plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and will follow an even roomier design that caters to the American market.

2009 Volkswagen Passat Sedan Komfort

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