Volkswagen Passat, 2000 - 2005
3.5531Rating3.416% worse than average rating of competitors (4.1)Review number: 31 RecommendsYes 0% No 100%
In the mid-2000s, the Passat received design updates - although many body parts have not changed, the changed headlights, bumpers and chrome trim make it look like a whole new model. The most powerful variant had a unique 4.0 L W8 engine with 270 hp (202 kW) and a standard all-wheel drive system called the 4motion. The Passat became the test bench for this engine, as the engine was later fitted to the W12 Phaeton, the Audi A8 and eventually to the well-known W16 Bugatti Veyron. Passat often evokes dual feelings - drivers will no doubt appreciate the beautiful design, standard features (many of which they borrowed from Audi), comfort, power, and the economy of diesel engines. However, many drivers complain of frequent minor faults.