Although the Passat is no cheaper than its mainstream alternatives to buy new, its future residual values will be class leading and closer to cars like the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4 than the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia. It means the Passat will be a sound investment. About 80% of Passats sold will be diesel-powered. They will hold their value better, despite used petrol models being harder to find.

The Passat scores quite well on the eco front and with an average of 167g/km CO2 across the line-up, its emissions are fairly low for a family estate. The best model for the eco-conscious is the 1.9 TDI Bluemotion which emits 136g/km of CO2 and returns 55mpg. This was replaced in late 2008 by the Bluemotion 2 – this uses a smoother and quieter 2.0 TDI common rail engine with 110bhp.

Thanks to longer gearing, aerodynamic tweaks and a Stop/Start function it is capable of 58mpg and emits 129g/km of CO2.

The engines used in the Passat range are in use in other Volkswagen cars and should be reliable. A greater reliance on electronics in the latest Passat means that it is more important than ever to ensure the car is serviced according to schedule for best reliability.