Car is running very well. The fuel economy is superb. The engine's torque allows you outrun most petrol cars. During a vacation the average fuel consumption was 6.1 liter/100 km over a 1200 km trip. This was at highway speed (120-130km/h).
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 24th July, 2000
A mid level car which gives you goodies of a luxury car
High wind noise.
The finish of this car is first class. Lots of amenities. Smooth ride. However, high wind noise was observed all the time. Sound system is excellent even without the Monsoon system. V6 is definitely better than the 1.8T. The 1.8T 4 cycl lacks the ultimate power though its response is still quick. The rear sunshade and the folding key are standout features. Price is OK when compared to other luxury cars. This car is among the class of the V6 Camry and V6 Accord. But I definitely will choose this car.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 17th April, 2000
If you consider 0-60 in 8 seconds quick...
Mention of wind noise coming from the Passat.. all the time?? I'm going to be taking a Passat out for a test drive soon and will listen sharply for this phanthom noise. Also some mention of poor quality cloth seats... Can anybody add to this any other comments.. This vehicle will set me back about 35 thousand Canadian, but I'm looking for a 10 year car.. Am I on the right track?
I got So many problems with This model. I got check engine signal came up many times. I spent almost $1000 on that single problem as it comes very often. Unfortunately it's not under warranty now.!!! Surprises me that VW can be this bad. Hey anyone got problem like this with GLS?
I have a 2003 Passat that I've been leasing for the past 10 months. I've taken it into the dealership 12 times with appointments, not counting the many times I've stopped in so that they have the opportunity to smell the oil fumes coming into the passenger compartment from the engine! I've just been told that the fact that the catalytic converter is in the engine compartment under the air vents, that I'm smelling (it actually makes me ill, can't breath it in any longer) oils and coatings breaking down because it gets so hot. This car is a sham!!! I do not recommend anyone buying the 1.8T engine. Who ever thought of putting the cat converter under the hood??!!! BAD move!
1st Aug 2001, 11:10
There's a reason there isn't enough power. You have an AUTOMATIC. Automatic transmissions are only good for sucking torque, power, and fuel economy, especially from small-displacement engines. You want a faster car? Learn to drive stick! I've driven a 1.8T 5-speed Passat and, even without modifications, it is darn quick.