Used Volkswagen Passat cars available

Why buy a Passat?Back to top

VW Passats are reliable, comfortable and economical.

Of the cars in its class, the Passat may be one of the most practical. A mix of reliability, space, affordability and comfort, it has all the elements of a good family car.

If there was to be a main criticism, it's that the Passat doesn't offer the same lively drive that some of its competitors do. This is a minor niggle however, as the ride is comfortable, performance options are good, and it comes well equipped - particularly in the newer generations which come with alloy wheels, air conditioning, USB connectivity and electric windows.

The drive is one of the most comfortable on the market, and in the newer models - which feature a revised suspension - the ride is as smooth and assured on poor roads as it is on motorways. Even at top speeds it remains responsive and calm.

The range of engines on offer is vast, and there are both diesel and petrol options; though the former offer the best mix of power and economy. The 2.0 litre diesel 138bhp achieves 0-60mph in around 10 seconds, but surprisingly returns just 50mpg and CO2 emissions of 120g/km. More efficient is the 1.6 diesel, which returns a more impressive 65mpg. The 1.4TSI petrol with Bluemotion technology offers around 47mpg and emissions of 138g/km, making it one of the most efficient cars in its class.

Reliability on VWs is good and the Passat is no exception; it scored an above average reliability rating in the 2012 JD Power survey. This reputation and rating extends to the safety as well, and so the Passat holds the full five star Euro NCAP crash test rating, while all modern models come with special electronic accident avoidance aids.

With low running and upkeep costs, the Passat is a solid family car which retains its value very well. Already competitively priced for their class, their potential resale value is very good.