Used car of the week: Volkswagen Passat Estate

The latest Volkswagen Passat Estate has been awarded five stars by the What Car? reviewers. The outgoing model was also a great car and makes a very good used buy.

Here's our guide to our favourite Passat Estate and what you need to look out for.

Ideal model 2.0 TDI 140 Highline
Prices from £7000

Why should I buy a used Volkswagen Passat Estate?

It's stylish, spacious, desirable and relaxing to drive. Also, most versions are well equipped.

The Passat Estate might not be the most exciting car to drive but it is comfortable and a fantastic motorway cruiser.

Running costs are reasonable, thanks to decent fuel economy and emissions.

Inside, the dashboard is well laid out and there's plenty of room for four adults. The only occupant who might feel a bit hard done by is the one in the rear middle seat because the wide transmission tunnel eats into the available legroom.

The boot is a good shape but folding the rear seats is a faff that involves removing the headrests and lifting the seat bases.

All models get air-con, alloy wheels, Bluetooth and four electric windows. Highline trim is worth looking for because you get rear parking sensors and sat-nav as well as cruise control.

Which model should I choose?

Our favourite is the Passat Estate 2.0 TDI 140 Highline. Running costs are good, thanks to an official fuel economy figure of 61.4mpg and 120g/km of CO2. The 2.0-litre engine is also powerful enough for everyday driving.

How much should I pay?

Around £7000 for a high-mileage 2011 car, but a '12/12 car with a more reasonable 25,000 miles on the clock can be yours for £14,000.

What problems should I look out for?

Volkswagen has a reputation for reliability but there are some faults that can cause owners headaches.

Check that all the electric windows work as they should. The boot lock mechanism can also fail - listen for any rattles while opening and closing the tailgate.