The Passat family sedan reflects Volkswagen's bigger and bolder styling direction, which consumers may also recognize in the Jetta sedan. They look similar, but the Passat is larger than the Jetta and has a larger footprint than the previous-generation Passat. With seating for five, it comp... Read Full Report
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Notable Features
Editor's note: This review was written in October 2013 about the 2013 Volkswagen Passat. Little of substance has changed with this year's model. To see what's new for 2014, click here, or check out a side-by-side comparison of the two model years. While the 2013 Volkswagen Passat's straightforward simplicity may not win over the tech-addicted, its massive rear seat legroom s... Read full review for the 2014 Volkswagen Passat
I have owned only 1 other VW, a bus in 1970. This is like a fresh breeze. Great handling, outstanding mileage, extremely spacious and comfortable backseat, awesome Fender stereo system and very helpfu... Read Full Review
Recalls
There are currently 7 recalls for this car.
Safety defects and recalls are relatively common. Stay informed and know what to do ahead of time.
Service & Repair
Bumper-to-Bumper
36mo/36,000mi
Powertrain
60mo/60,000mi
Roadside Assistance Coverage
36mo/36,000mi
Free Scheduled Maintenance
24mo/24,000mi
What you should get in your warranty can be confusing. Make sure you are informed.
Bumper-to-Bumper
Often called a basic warranty or new-vehicle warranty, a bumper-to-bumper policy covers components like air conditioning, audio systems, vehicle sensors, fuel systems and major electrical components. Most policies exclude regular maintenance like fluid top offs and oil changes, but a few brands have separate free-maintenance provisions, and those that do offer them is slowly rising. Bumper-to-bumper warranties typically expire faster than powertrain warranties.
Powertrain
Don't be misled a 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty doesn't promise a decade of free repairs for your car. It typically covers just the engine and transmission, along with any other moving parts that lead to the wheels, like the driveshaft and constant velocity joints. Some automakers also bundle seat belts and airbags into their powertrain warranties. With a few exceptions, powertrain warranties don't cover regular maintenance like engine tuneups and tire rotations.
Roadside Assistance
Some automakers include roadside assistance with their bumper-to-bumper or powertrain warranties, while others have separate policies. These programs cover anything from flat-tire changes and locksmith services to jump-starts and towing. Few reimburse incidental costs like motel rooms (if you have to wait for repairs).
Free Scheduled Maintenance
Some automakers include free scheduled maintenance for items such as oil changes, air filters and tire rotations. Some include consumables including brake pads and windshield wipers; others do not. They are typically for the first couple of years of ownership of a new car.
