2007 Volkswagen Passat [ 2008 ]
Volkswagen Passat
Overall Score - 8.0 (Very Good)
The Passat delivers excellent safety features, sporty performance and an upscale interior for its class, but spotty reliability history is a concern.
The 2007 Volkswagen Passat is described as a competent road performer with excellent safety features, a streamlined exterior and upscale interior styling. "Entertaining to drive, boasting a beautifully trimmed cabin and equipped with upscale features, the 2007 Volkswagen Passat is one of our favorite choices for a midsize sedan or wagon," says Edmunds. Another reviewer feels the Passat falls short of the mark. "You have to get the balance of performance, comfort and price just right to win a spot in the narrow space between family sedan and luxury car," says the Detroit Free Press. "The Passat misses due to a combination of price, ergonomics and rather bland looks and performance."
Overall, reviewers are impressed with the Passat's interior and exterior styling. "The Passat is one of the best-looking Volkswagens in a long time, and the interior has a high level of refinement," says MSN. However, many reviewers question the price and reliability of the vehicle. "If its driving dynamics or design distinctions don't make an impression on you, there's little reason to choose the Passat over benchmarks like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry," says Kelley Blue Book.
Price is a major issue for reviewers. "VW is trying its darnedest to complete a move upscale," says USA Today. "But it seems a bit too eager to do that just on the window sticker, rather than by including premium features." Still, some report the price is fair. "The Passat continues to be the most affordable way to enjoy true German engineering without breaking the bank," says Kelley Blue Book. "In terms of resale, we expect the Passat to hold its value nearly as well as the most resilient competitors at both ends of its wide price range." IntelliChoice gives the 2007 Volkswagen Passat a rating of "average" for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership, compared to others in its class. "Budget-conscious consumers with families may wonder why they'd want to spend so much on a midsize sedan or station wagon," says MSN. "They could, after all, spend less in buying a Chevrolet Impala, Honda Accord or Toyota Camry."
The 2007 Volkswagen Passat is available in four main trims: The base sedan model, the sedan 2.0 TFSI, the Sedan 3.6 and the Sedan 3.6 4Motion. The 4Motion is an all-wheel drive (AWD) model, while the other trims are all front-wheel drive (FWD).
Passat Performance - 7.5 (Good)
The Passat offers a very good driving experience. "Spirited performance and competent handling, along with a supple ride, are traits typical of even the base model Passat," says Edmunds. continue
Passat Exterior - 7.3 (Good)
Reviewers agree the Passat's exterior is pleasant and nice, even if not groundbreaking. "Like many midsize sedans, the Passat is attractive, but not striking," says U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman. continue
Passat Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)
The interior cabin is comfortable and well put together. New Car Test Drive says the ambiance is "best defined as understated luxury ... There's a simplicity about the design and functionality that helps the driver fulfill his assigned task without confusion or calamity." continue
Passat Safety - 8.6 (Very Good)
The 2007 Passat is a well equipped vehicle for safety, and has performed very well in government and insurance industry crash tests. continue
Passat Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Volkswagen Passat 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 2007 Volkswagen Passat comes equipped with a basic warranty covering four years or 50,000 miles. continue
