VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT SALOON REVIEW

My car

Had my Passat a year now (bought from dealer with 5000 miles)and have driven 25000 miles approx. I have had no faults at all, only extra expense was 1 set of front tyres. Common Rail diesel engine is very smooth - much better than previous diesel engine. Economy is about 50mpg. Cabin quality good, some trims show cost cutting. Stereo good, but no IPOD connection as standard which in this day and age is poor. Electric handbrake gets bad press, but I have found it no problem and the extra space between front seats is useful. Overall, a very good car, handling not the most exciting, but it is designed as a long distance motorway cruiser, at which it excels.

My car

The car arrived just four weeks ago and it has now clocked up its first 1000 miles. The trim level in this highline is excellent - a simple, conservative design that exudes class and comfort. The 170 engine is just a gem and is both refined and a decent performer. Now that the engine is loosening a little the average mpg is 47 (close to the claimed 50.4).

Prior to getting the Passat we had a BMW 3 series saloon followed by a Skoda Octavia as a pre-contract car. The Skoda was good and the BMW was great on A roads. The Passat is every bit as good to drive (which surprised me) and is just a pleasure all round so far.

My car

Just clocked up my first 1000 miles in this lovely car. Never had a Passat before but liked the look of a neighbours. Have owned BMW 3 series deisel estate and the Passat is as good if not better to drive. The 2 litre / 140 ps engine is brilliant and perfect for motorway cruising. In 6th gear at the maximum permitted speed it was returning well over 50 mpg. The Highline spec with heated leather seats and trim is stylish and really comfy, and the build quality is every bit as good as any Audi that I have travelled in. The driving position and back support is perfect. Surprised by readers comments about the electronic handbrake - it's very simple to use.

Just wished that I had known about the Highline Plus offering satnav before I bought this one.

In summary this a great all round package and I am really pleased (and a little surprised) at just how good it is.

My car

Update: The passat just gets worse. How VW have got away with building this and getting away with it is amazes me! The problems just keep adding up and compared to the previous model it really is a poor show.

New problems include engine seizure and suspension problems, poor quality cabin is creaking like crazy. This car is part of a fleet and they all have similiar problems. I cant believe I have just read that What Car have named this used car of the year!!!!!! Im gobsmacked! thats even after it came 70 something out of 100 in the JD survey and was the most complained about car VW build!

Ive owned VW for years and have always been a fan but not anymore. I know a number of other people who have bought this car and all have had problems. VW as usual will not help or admit they are selling a poor product.

I bought this car expecting it to exceed the previous model which had been fantastic but the whole experience has been a nightmare!!