The Volkswagen Passat is available with 10 available trims that range from station wagons to sedans. This vehicle is a leader in the wagon and sedan market that has been taken over by Accord and Camry. Both the four-door sedan and the station wagon body have front drive and are designed using styling from the Volkswagen luxury division Audi. Gas mileage varies between models but on the average 24/31 mpg city/highway can be expected. Volkswagen’s expansion into the mid-range luxury sedan and SUV market is balanced out with the Passat’s many styles for the average family.
The Range
Body Styles: sedan, station wagon
Engines: 1.8 liter four-cylinder, 2.8 liter V-6
Transmissions: four-speed automatic, five-speed manual
Models: Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T, Volkswagen Passat GLS, Volkswagen Passat GLX
What's New
The 2000 Passat has minor additions, including the Monsoon audio system with an eight channel, eight-speaker setup that comes with 200 watts of entertaining power. This entertainment system can be complemented by a dealer-installed CD player in-dash or a 12-disc CD changer mounted in the trunk. Anti-lock brakes and low-speed traction control are now standard on all models as is an anti-theft system and a brake-wear indicator.
Exterior
Designed to have a look similar to that of the luxury Audi A6, the rounded and sloping front and rear body shapes have the look of a Beetle. All models come standard with fog lights, variable intermittent windshield wipers, and rear window defrosters. Alloy wheels come standard on the GLX as does the availability of dual exhaust. A power moonroof is standard on the GLX.
Interior
The 2000 Passat’s interior proves to have just as many options as the exterior, and even more. Air-conditioning, cruise control, remote keyless entry, tilt steering with a telescoping steering wheel, and power windows are just the beginning. An AM/FM radio with cassette player and eight speakers is standard with the option to add a CD player and upgrade to 12 speakers for an additional fee. Comfort is standard, with split folding rear seats and front center storage and armrests. Some standard features with higher end models like the GLX are a leather steering wheel, gear shift knob, and seating options. The GLX also comes standard with power driver and passenger seats that are heated for maximum comfort in the winter.
Performance & Handling
Regardless of the style, the Passat’s performance and handling are excellent. With a base engine that is a 1.8-liter, turbo charged four-cylinder with 150 horsepower and the option to move up to the 2.8-liter V-6, the Passat makes driving fun. Handling this vehicle is fun with excellent steering and braking with four-wheel, ABS disc brakes on all models with independent front and rear suspension systems. There is no complaining about the overall ride and feel of any of the Passat models.
Safety
The Passat keeps its safety features plentiful across the board, regardless of the model. All come equipped with a panic alarm, dual front side impact airbags, a security system, ignition disable, traction control, ABS brakes, and dual front impact air bags.
EPA Fuel Economy
Volkswagen Passat GLS: 24/31 mpg city/highway
Volkswagen Passat GLX: 20/29 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Fun and functionality in one vehicle
- Several models and trims available
- Comfortable interior
- Fuel economy
You Won't Like
- Turbo models not as expected
- Body has tendency to roll
Sum Up
A family vehicle with plenty of variety.
If You Like This Vehicle
- Honda Accord
- Toyota Camry
- Nissan Maxima