VW Passat Estate 1988-
  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Bombproof build quality and good residual values means you pay more initially but lose less money in the long term.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Parts are available from other V.A.G. cars. Excellent parts supply from G.S.F and Europarts.

  • On the road

    Driving

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Lively drive. Holds road well with or without heavy loads.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    The new generation turbo direct injection engines have turned the corner in diesel performance. The K&N filter means it has more torque than a Golf GTi.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    One front wiper motor in 124,000 miles. That's what I call reliability - touch wood : )

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Not the best image but the VR6 model is the ultimate wolf in sheep"s clothing with 174 bhp.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Seats with good back support aid your comfort on long motorway journeys.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Flip-off Sony stereo as standard plus standard immobiliser and good door locks. Probably best to fit aftermarket alarm and steering wheel lock if living in cities or parking on streets.

    Service

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Dealers very expensive and not very good - that's why there are lots of VW specialists out there.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Nothing apart from turbo, which is getting tired after 124,000 miles.

    Other

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes