2008 Volkswagen Passat [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 61 Passat reviews and test drives.
Volkswagen Passat - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Volkswagen Passat ranks 19 out of 25 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 61 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen Passat, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2008 VW Passat delivers excellent safety features, sporty performance and an upscale interior for its class, but spotty reliability history is a concern, as is its high price.
Most describe the 2008 Volkswagen Passat as a competent road performer with excellent safety features, a streamlined exterior and upscale interior styling. But it falls in the bottom-tier of the affordable midsize car rankings because reviewers say though this combination is good, it falls short of the mark set by the likes of Honda, Toyota or Nissan. Several writers say the Passat's low points include a less-than-refined highway experience, and lofty pricing, especially among the higher trims. Still, reviewers uphold the Passat is a nice alternative to the traditional segment leaders -- "maybe not better in every way than the competition," Newsday writes, "but better than before and worth a look."
The Volkswagen Passat has four main trims, given new names for 2008: The base Turbo model, the Komfort trim, followed by the Lux and the VR6. The Passat also comes in a four-wheel drive model, the VR6 Motion ®. If you're interested in an affordable family sedan, consider the Honda Accord.
- "This is a mature, fully textured driver's car, appealing on every level." -- Motor Trend
- "The Volkswagen Passat is a sophisticated car with a high-quality cabin. It's roomy and comfortable. … The ride is smooth and comfortable and the chassis is well controlled at high speed." -- New Car Test Drive
- "Powered by the base 2.0-liter turbo four, the Passat is a fine family sedan, offering a sophisticated interior and European road feel. … The Passat 3.6 offers personality not found in the Camry and Accord, but considering the price point, a value-per-dollar assessment does it no favors." -- Car and Driver
- "Back when the American automakers focused mainly on muscle, and Japanese cars were proficient but boring, VW found a great niche as the maker of affordable European funmobiles. But Japanese cars like the Nissan Altima and the Honda Accord aren't so boring anymore, and domestics like the Ford Fusion are a lot crisper than their bloated predecessor. VW's niche is getting tighter." -- U.S. News
Passat Performance - 7.6 (Good)
According to many, the Passat delivers spirited performance and competent handling, making for an all-around good driving experience. Car and Driver says, "VW engineers designed it for German autobahns, and it shows. Its handling is precise, and it feels well-anchored to the pavement under all driving conditions." Continue with the full Performance Review for more information on the Turbo, Komfort and Lux models four-cylinder engine versus the VR6 trim's six-cylinder FSI engine. continue
Passat Exterior - 7.3 (Good)
Reviewers agree the Passat's exterior is pleasant, but not groundbreaking. "Like many midsize sedans, the Passat is attractive, but not striking," says U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman. Check out our Volkswagen Passat Photo Gallery to see the car's trademark two-piece front grille, or continue with the full Exterior Review for more opinions on the Passat's design. continue
Passat Interior - 7.9 (Good)
The 2008 Passat's 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." Check out our Volkswagen Passat Photo Gallery to see the simple yet functional placement of controls, or continue with our full Interior Review for a description of the VR6's Dynaudio Premium Sound System. continue
Passat Safety - 8.6 (Very Good)
The 2008 Passat is a well-equipped with safety features, and has performed very well in government and insurance industry crash tests. Our full Safety Review provides more information on the Passat's safety equipment and crash-test results. continue
Passat Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 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 Passat comes equipped with a basic warranty covering four years or 50,000 miles. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn about additional coverage. continue
