2007 Volkswagen Passat Wagon [ 2008 ]

MSRP: $24,370 - $33,320
Invoice: $22,637 - $31,054
MPG: 23 City / 31 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores
Overall:7.8
Performance:7.9
Exterior:8.2
Interior:7.7
Safety:8.6
Reliability:4.0
Pros
  • Powerful engine choices
  • Comfortably seats five
  • Wide-range of standard safety features
  • European styling and driving dynamics
Cons
  • New six-speed automatic transmission downshifts roughly
  • Four-cylinder engine suffers from turbo-lag
  • Electronic steering system offers little road-feedback
  • Volkswagen has spotty reliability record

Volkswagen Passat Wagon

Overall Score - 7.8 (Good)

The Passat Wagon offers comfort and utility in an appealing package. In addition to two powerful engine options and superb handling, the new Passat Wagon comfortably seats five passengers, has plenty of room for extra cargo, and offers modern styling and luxury typical of other German manufacturers.

Though it has some mechanical shortcomings, such as turbo-lag, a transmission that downshifts frequently and abruptly, and light steering, the 2007 Volkswagen Passat Wagon still receives accolades for its class-leading powertrain, excellent handling, expansive cargo room and long list of standard convenience and safety features. Cars.com says that for some wagon buyers, the Passat's "winning attributes -- a stylish interior and exterior, strong powertrains, attention to detail and safety ratings -- will shine through."

The 2007 VW Passat Wagon is available in both an inline four-cylinder and V6 engine. Both engines are fuel-efficient and provide ample horsepower, but many reviewers agree with Kelley Blue Book, who sees the Passat Wagon's handling as a high point, saying that the "handling characteristics are completely European sedan-like." Edmunds reports that the Passat wagon is "improved in every measurable way, and it continues to deliver on the promise of an affordable midsize luxury five-door."

Many reviewers see the 2007 Passat Wagon as an excellent value. According to Cars.com, "If you're not concerned about having a luxury brand logo on the hood, the Passat provides much of the ambiance of a luxury car for less dough." Though VW has a reputation of marginal long-term reliability, the all-new VW fleet seems to have a newfound focus on quality, which is welcomed by reviewers. VW also offers great warranty packages for the 2007 Passat Wagon, and, IntelliChoice gave the new wagon a "better than average" value rating based on total cost of ownership compared to others in its class.

If you're in the market for an affordable full-size wagon, check out our Best Affordable Full-Size Wagons list.

Passat Wagon Performance - 7.9 (Good)

The 2007 Volkswagen Passat Wagon is praised for its powerful engines, excellent fuel efficiency, and great handling. Nevertheless, minor quirks with the transmission and electronic steering system somewhat detract from the overall driving experience. continue

Passat Wagon Exterior - 8.2 (Very Good)

The 2007 VW Passat has an exterior that most auto reviewers like. The Auto Channel states, "In style, it works very well, perhaps even better than the sedan." The Arizona Republic adds, "The wagon goes from boxy to swoopy for 2007, with a trendy design that looks as good as the sedan." continue

Passat Wagon Interior - 7.7 (Good)

The Volkswagen Passat Wagon receives praise for its comfortable, spacious and versatile interior. Cars.com says the Passat Wagon "can hold up to five people, and Volkswagen's attention to detail and high-quality materials give the cabin a rich feel." continue

Passat Wagon Safety - 8.6 (Very Good)

Auto reviewers are generally pleased with the long list of standard safety features that come with the Passat. Government crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded the 2007 Volkswagen Passat Wagon 4 of 5 stars for both driver and front passenger protection in frontal impacts. The Passat Wagon was not rated for side impact. continue

Passat Wagon Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)

The 2007 Volkswagen Passat Wagon reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Passat Wagon comes with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. continue

Review Last Updated: 5/2/08