History/Description: Want a family sedan or wagon that prioritizes reliability, sensibility and exceptional fuel mileage? Consider something from Honda, Subaru, Mazda or Toyota.
Want a family sedan or wagon that’s big on style, refinement and advanced technology? Can’t afford that BMW or Mercedes? The Volkswagen Passat might be the answer.
The last-generation car, offered in model years 2006 through 2011, featured sedan and wagon body styles, 2 available engines, available all-wheel drive and plenty of high-tech goodies.
VW’s 2.0-litre turbo 4-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower was standard on all models, and could be fitted with a manual, automatic or dual-clutch transmission, depending on the year and model in question. The automaker’s 3.6-litre, 280-horsepower V6 was also available, available only with the 4MOTION AWD system and 6-speed automatic. Both engines featured direct injection technology for maximum efficiency.
Look for features like xenon lighting, navigation, premium audio, automatic climate control, Bluetooth, heated leather seating with memory and plenty more. Loaded up, the equipment list on a last-generation Passat could rival pricier cars.
What Owners Like: For most owners, the looks, refinement, performance and driving experience of the Passat were big draws. A high-quality interior feel, plenty of power with either engine and a long list of bells and whistles all earned praise. Handling is also highly rated.
What Owners Dislike: Common complaints include poor gas mileage on V6-equipped models, a stiff ride, and a trunk design that allows water and snow to spill into the cargo area when the trunk is opened. Some owners wish for a quieter ride and more at-hand storage, too.
Common Issues With A Used Volkswagen Passat: Typically, several-year-old German cars tend to offer a driving experience that outweighs reliability issues in the eyes of loyal owners. That’s the case with the Passat.
On a test drive, ensure all electronics function as expected, inside and outside of the car. Niggling electronic issues are prevalent in many owners’ forums, and can be frustrating to diagnose and repair.
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| 2006 Volkswagen Passat (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Auto123.com) |
Want a family sedan or wagon that’s big on style, refinement and advanced technology? Can’t afford that BMW or Mercedes? The Volkswagen Passat might be the answer.
The last-generation car, offered in model years 2006 through 2011, featured sedan and wagon body styles, 2 available engines, available all-wheel drive and plenty of high-tech goodies.
VW’s 2.0-litre turbo 4-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower was standard on all models, and could be fitted with a manual, automatic or dual-clutch transmission, depending on the year and model in question. The automaker’s 3.6-litre, 280-horsepower V6 was also available, available only with the 4MOTION AWD system and 6-speed automatic. Both engines featured direct injection technology for maximum efficiency.
Look for features like xenon lighting, navigation, premium audio, automatic climate control, Bluetooth, heated leather seating with memory and plenty more. Loaded up, the equipment list on a last-generation Passat could rival pricier cars.
What Owners Like: For most owners, the looks, refinement, performance and driving experience of the Passat were big draws. A high-quality interior feel, plenty of power with either engine and a long list of bells and whistles all earned praise. Handling is also highly rated.
What Owners Dislike: Common complaints include poor gas mileage on V6-equipped models, a stiff ride, and a trunk design that allows water and snow to spill into the cargo area when the trunk is opened. Some owners wish for a quieter ride and more at-hand storage, too.
Common Issues With A Used Volkswagen Passat: Typically, several-year-old German cars tend to offer a driving experience that outweighs reliability issues in the eyes of loyal owners. That’s the case with the Passat.
On a test drive, ensure all electronics function as expected, inside and outside of the car. Niggling electronic issues are prevalent in many owners’ forums, and can be frustrating to diagnose and repair.
 |
| 2006 Volkswagen Passat (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Auto123.com) |