Volkswagen Passat Saloon (05-10) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 26 May 2009
The Passat has built up a reputation as a reliable, robustly built and well engineered car. The current model is no exception and thanks to the Volkswagen badge on the grille it has an image of quality that few alternatives can match. It's certainly a classy offering with neat styling and the comfortable interior reflects this with high grade materials and precise switches - features like the standard electric handbrake further reinforce the upmarket image. On the road the Passat is comfortable and predictable, if not very exciting, but on the downside it's only available as a saloon or an estate - there's no hatchback version. Still the boot is a good size and there's decent rear passenger space too. There's also a low emission Bluemotion version available.
4 out of 5

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3.5 out of 5

Buying used

The Passat is an excellent family car with an upmarket image and superb reliability, but it's worth avoiding the early 1.6 FSI engine and the 3.2 V6 is very thirsty. The diesels will have no problems covering large mileages and the interior of the Passat is robust enough to handle it too, but a full service history is essential. If you're after a common rail 2.0 TDI (the far superior unit was launched in 2008) then make sure that's what you're looking at. You'll soon know by how quiet and smooth it is.

  • Boot/Load Space Volkswagen Passat Saloon (05-10)
  • Interior Volkswagen Passat Saloon (05-10)

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See 458 used Volkswagen Passat Saloons for sale, starting at £3,989

4 out of 5

Selling

Thanks to its strong reputation the Passat will always be sought after on the second hand market and you'll get more money than equivalent rivals. The diesels will always be popular and you can expect top money if it's in good nick but the excellent TSI engines are also wanted.