Other Volkswagen Passat (2005 - 2011) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Probably pretty conservative. Doesn't really stand out from the crowd but then that's not always a bad thing.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Anyone who's been driven in the car likes it and have given positive feedback. This is a very solid, understated car that 'does exact what it says on the tin'.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes. I would probably spend extra and get a 170bhp estate version. Don't particularly like the look of the latest Passat.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    I have my sights set on a used MG Magnette TSE (diesel) as my next car. I've had a test drive in the MG and think the marque deserves some British support. Just want to drive something that is 'short on the ground'.

  • Buying experience

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £8,000

    When did you buy the car?

    October 2011

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Fair deal. Car was in very nice condition and lowish mileage for a 3 year old car. I traded in my Fiat Stilo SW Multiwagon so didn't get too much for that. I had to get two new front tyres because tracking was out and I hadn't inspected them - lesson learnt for the future!

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    What was the dealer like?

    Pleasant enough and sell nice examples of reputable brands.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    This is a big car and doesn't like being thrown about. Great for long runs/motorway cruising and 140 SE version has plenty of torque, very easy to break the speed limits!

    What's it like to park?

    If you have parking sensors then it's easy peasy. If you haven't, then it can be hard to judge front and rear distances.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Nothing at all has gone wrong, broken or stopped working. Nearside dash/glove box will sometimes squeak which can be annoying but interior fittings are as solid as anyone could wish. Had a VW recall for a possible injector problem, new injectors fitted for free and I now get about 5-6 mpg extra on a decent run.

    What's most practical about your car?

    This is just such a roomy car inside with a good sized boot.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Parking sensors. Never had them before on a car but really find them indespensible now.