The VW Passat has come a long way. First released in 1973 as a family car, the Passat has endured eight generations and today’s model looks nothing like the boxy original. The new VW Passat has been redesigned from the ground up and can comfortably go head-to-head with the compact executive elite. It has a slightly longer wheelbase than the previous generation, resulting in more interior space and a more dynamic look.
If you’re looking to buy a new car on finance, take a look at our review to find out if the Passat is right for you. And if you’re interested in financing a new VW Passat or any other model, our stress-free car finance calculator can give you an instant quote today.
There’s a lot to cover, so let’s dive right into our VW Passat Review.
Original image by Rocco Demas
Design
The wheelbase may be a little longer than its predecessor’s, but the total length of the car has stayed the same. Add to this the lowered bonnet and the VW Passat has shed its likeness with mainstream saloons and is clearly ready to enter the compact executive car park – and this extends to the interior too. The high quality materials and straight lines of the dashboard prove the Passat is ready to get down to business. You still get the traditional analogue clock, but additions include the full width air vent and optional 12.3 inch virtual screen replacing traditional dials.
Performance
With the majority of VW Passats in the UK being sold to the fleet market, it will come as no surprise that emissions are low across the range. The entry point engine is a 1.6-litre TDI with a decent 118bhp, returning a satisfying 70.6mpg. When combined with BlueMotion tech, the engine will only emit 95g/km, which is exciting news for thrifty drivers. Mid-range, we find a 2.0-litre TDI with two outputs: 148bhp or 187bhp, both of which are still very much acceptable on the emissions front. At the top of the range sits VW’s flagship 237bph bi-turbo TDI, which will be connected to a DSG gearbox with 4Motion all-wheel drive system. That power comes at a cost, though, as the most powerful engine returns a comparatively low 52.3mpg.
Features
The new VW Passat comes with a 6.5 inch central touchscreen, DAB Radio and Bluetooth as standard. With the exception of the S and SE, all trims also come with Satnav and mapping duplicated on the display. Additional options include rear view camera, keyless entry and a powered boot to name a few.
Ride & Handling
Over time, the VW Passat has gained a longstanding reputation as an incredibly reliable car – and the new VW Passat is no exception, although the handling and agility of the car are definitely improved. The car is lighter than its predecessor and, thanks to the lowered bonnet, the car has a lower centre of gravity – making for one particularly quick little car. All in all, the VW Passat is everything you’d expect from an exec – plus some very welcome extras.
Original image by Vernon Chan
Starting at £22,215, the new VW Passat is ready for 2015. And if you need some help financing this beautiful compact exec, check out our dedicated VW finance page. Looking for car finance right now? Use our car finance calculator today for an instant quote.
