2009 Volkswagen Passat Wagon
- 2010 Volkswagen Passat Wagon
in Affordable Full Size Wagons
Based on analysis of 27 Passat-Wagon reviews and test drives.
Volkswagen Passat Wagon - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 Volkswagen Passat Wagon ranks 2 out of 7 Affordable Full Size Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 27 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen Passat Wagon, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2009 Volkswagen Passat Wagon offers two powerful engine options and superb handling, comfortably seats five passengers, has plenty of room for extra cargo, and offers modern styling and luxury typical of German manufacturers.
Though it has some mechanical shortcomings -- such as turbo lag, a transmission that downshifts frequently and abruptly, and light steering -- the 2009 Volkswagen Passat Wagon still has a class-leading powertrain, excellent handling, expansive cargo room and long list of standard features. In fact, most call the Passat a good vehicle that carries on the station wagon tradition of dependable family utility. Car and Driver says the VW is good for those "still mourning the passing of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry wagons," because of its practicality and value. Last redesigned in 2007, changes to the 2009 model are relatively minor.
The Passat Wagon now comes in four trim levels: the Turbo, Komfort, Lux or VR6. Only the Turbo trim is available with a manual transmission. If you like the Passat wagon but worry about its reliability, check out the Ford Taurus X, which has a good reliability record and can seat up to seven. The Volvo V50 is also a good alternative to the Passat, thanks to its sleek European styling and sporty driving character.
- "As usual, VW's European styling and refinement are present, but tight body control and precise steering feel elude the Passat.-- Automobile Magazine
- "We were a bit taken aback by the $38,280 sticker . . . After a week behind the wheel, however, we were won over by the car's virtues -- with a few important caveats." -- Detroit News
- "... a roomy and handsome midsize station wagon with a sportier personality than the typical family car." -- Forbes
Passat-Wagon Performance - 8.4 (Very Good)
The Volkswagen Passat Wagon offers nimble handling and all-around good performance. The Boston Globe describes its handling as "solid and reassuring." Sill, reviewers aren't very fond of the Passat Wagon's transmission. Read More
Passat-Wagon Exterior - 8.2 (Very Good)
The 2009 VW Passat's exterior styling is well-liked. The Auto Channel states, "In style, it works very well, perhaps even better than the sedan." Read More
Passat-Wagon Interior - 8.2 (Very Good)
The Volkswagen Passat Wagon has a comfortable, spacious and versatile interior, but it's not a standout among affordable full-size wagons. Competitors offer better features and more pleasing cabin layouts. Still, the Detroit News writes, "The materials and the design are top-drawer." Nevertheless, critics aren't satisfied with Volkswagen's touch-screen navigation system. Read More
Passat-Wagon Safety - 9.3 (Excellent)
The Passat Wagon fares well in federal government and insurance industry crash tests, and features a wide array of standard active and passive safety equipment -- including an electronic stability system and six air bags. Read More
Passat-Wagon Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2009 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. Read More
