2012 Volkswagen Passat Review: Reliable, Affordable & Well-Made Sedan

Alex Showalter
Apr 2, 2022

The 2012 Passat lasts around 250,000 miles with only minor engine and transmission computer issues. At $8,404 – 10,343, it’s a bargain for a midsize German car.

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likeFilled The Good
Cabin space is fantastic, the diesel engine leads the class in fuel efficiency and the suspension offers a very comfortable ride.
dislikeFilled The Bad
Ownership costs are higher than rivals, there’s no safety technology and the base engine is weak.

Is the 2012 Volkswagen Passat a Good Used Car?

  • Yes, 2012 is a good year. Owners really like the luxurious interior, nice stereo system, and fuel efficiency.
  • Reliability ratings are good for 2012. Avoid the 2013 model with more mechanical issues. We recommend models from 2014 onward which are good choices.
  • Performance is average from the base 5-cylinder engine, and better with the V6.
  • The Passat is a safe car getting a perfect 5-star crash test rating and a Top Safety Pick Award.
  • Fuel economy is excellent at up to 34 MPG combined.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Steven H
My overall experience with the dealer and vehicle would keep me with them.
I have had trouble with faulty airbag once since owning this vehicle. The overall feeling of performance I have not been disappointed with this car at all, handling is very good with adequate tires. Fuel consumption while commuting or traveling is guaranteed 30+ mpg. Reliability has not been an issue for me, I get regular service when the car is due and haven't had any trouble. My vehicle has the leather option and during long trips I have never felt uncomfortable driving or being passenger as well as being an average height I still have adequate legroom in the back seat. My vehicle came almost basic features but I haven't been missing anything.
accountCircle Aj W
Overall a great buy for your money!
Great engine that is running well after 8 years. Really nice leather interior. Great speaker system. Smooth driving. Drives very well through all elements. Lots of leg room and very spacious all around. Huge trunk with tons of cargo space. Overall a wonderful car.
accountCircle Taylor C
Review of the Volkswagen Passat sel.
I haven't had any issues with my Volkswagen, the Passat has a large a roomy back seat and a large amount of trunk space. The leather seats with the inlay keep the seats from getting too cold in the winter or two hot in the summer. It has been a very reliable car.
accountCircle Jessica G
The number one feature for me is reliability. Very rarely have I had a problem with this car after owning it for almost five years. I know that it's going to get me from point A to point B with little to no trouble, and the AC always works!
My vehicle is safe and reliable and I love that I can connect my phone to the car and stream music/audio, as well as talk to people while driving.
accountCircle Michael G
The vehicle is very reliable and very enjoyable to drive.
I like the styling of the Passat. It has wonderful handling and performance. It is a great family car.
accountCircle Meghan R
The most reliable silver luxury Volkswagen.
The passat is a reliable commuter car. Its leather seat, wood finish, and fender speakers make for a comfortable, luxurious driving experience. Its ability to convert to sport mode also makes for fun drives. Overall, it feels very smooth while driving and very easily changes speed as needed.
accountCircle Johnathan
This is my 5th Volkswagen
I’ve had my Passat 3.6 SEL for about 3 years and I love it. I have the tan interior and I don’t recommend it if you have teen kids. It has a lot of room, great on the road and the Fender sound system is amazing. I just did the seafoam treatment and it runs like brand new. Last, I wish it had a little more horsepower. Other than that, it’s a great car.
accountCircle Ryan R
I will forever be a passat owner.
It runs like a dream. Handles great, especially with sport mode.. Great legroom for tall people (especially in back seat). I contend it is best value on the market, I will absolutely be buying another one. Volkswagen incentives make the decision a no-brainer.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Kathy Z
Cheap car, wouldn't buy again. The gas mileage is not that great
Since I have purchased it the sensors continually are having to be replaced
accountCircle tara h
Don't trust any car from Volkswagen to be a quality purchase.
I would never recommend a VW TDI Passat. The car had no issues until the emissions recall happened, and now, even though it is less than 6 years old, something goes wrong every 6 months or less.
accountCircle Elizabeth L
My car is an expensive upkeep car. The Passat 2012 acts as though it's a '93.
Steering wheel buttons do not work, Airbag light has been on, horn does not work (recalled). Have already had to buy a brand new radiator. Oil changes are through the roof expensive due to required type of oil, and coils are constantly going out. Expensive maintenance is involved.
accountCircle Andrea A
It's semi-round shape reminds me of the beetle from Volkswagen as well.
I did not buy the car new, I inherited it from my aunt, so it had some noises here and there. But apart from that works perfectly fine. I love that it has Bluetooth and automatically connects to my phone, be it for music or for phone calls. It is comfy, spacious, has automatic lights, and a pull down tray in the backseat. So I gave it a 3 out of 5 just because of its current condition, not because it doesn't work fine or I don't love it!
accountCircle Bria M
Foreign cars are expensive to maintain!
The transmission has given me problems since I have had my car (only a couple years). This has led to 4 new batteries and multiple new head and tail lights. I have also had to replace the brakes and the radio. Otherwise, it is spacious. It is just so expensive for an oil change and new tires, etc.
accountCircle Rebecca S
Reliable car that holds up under normal driving wear and tear.
Car performs pretty well and has not needed too much service in the 6 years I have had it, pretty good gas mileage and comfortable drive as well. It is a reliable car that has performed well in california’s weather and has good trunk size and a sizable back seat for passengers as well.
accountCircle Tameek J
It is a gray car with awesome gas mileage.
Not a bad car but the tires are not good after long distance driving and the leather seat are not good in hot climates. The car is very strong and great air conditioning. The speed of the car is great and it has awesome gas mileage. Good for joy rides and rides to the beach.
accountCircle Sam M
Love the car, but it does not age well.
Performs well, comfortable, has seat warmers and Bluetooth, nice features. Have had many expensive issues arise with it (windows starting getting buggy, problems with check engine light, a/c went out on us once, jerkiness that showed up after a couple of years), but it was bought used with ~100k miles already.

What Do Critics Say About the Passat?

  • Consumer Reports finds the Passat to be spacious and comfortable, with average owner satisfaction scores.
  • Edmunds rates the Passat 4.3/5 and likes the high-quality cabin, but finds the performance lacking.
  • Kelley Blue Book users give the Passat a 4.4/5 and like the roomy interior, but think the technology is weak.

What Common Problems Does the 2012 Volkswagen Passat Have?

There are some minor problems with the 2012 Passat including transmission computer issues, rough idling, and tire pressure monitoring system faults.

Transmission computer issues are mentioned at around 75,000 miles. The vehicle will sometimes shift to neutral while driving which can be caused by either software or loose cable. Repairing the problem costs around $200 for a new ground cable.

Rough engine idling is brought up by owners at nearly 70,000 miles. Usually it’s just a sign of a computer problem and resetting the system solves the issue. Some owners have replaced drive belts to reduce vibrations, which costs about $1,000.

Tire pressure monitoring system problems show up in the first 50,000 miles. Resetting the system by holding down the tire pressure switch usually fixes the problem.

There are 10 recalls with the most serious being for water corrosion on electrical terminals which increases the risk of a fire. Less serious recalls include several for airbags and safety systems.

How Long Will the 2012 Volkswagen Passat Last?

A well cared for 2012 Passat should last around 250,000 miles, which is similar to other reliable midsize sedans including the Mazda6. Regular annual maintenance costs are high at $656 per year, according to Repair Pal.

A Passat from 2012 will likely have over 100,000 miles and shoppers should be prepared to replace items including the blower motor for $450, ignition coils costing $120, and the transmission shift cable which costs $425.

accountCircle Marshall B

Have only had to replace normal wear and tear items such as brakes, tires, battery and wiper blades.

accountCircle Stephanie F

Yes this car is very reliable. It has not ever given me any problems and I can count on it to take me anywhere.

accountCircle Janet N

This has been a reliable vehicle. Aside from routine maintenance, needed repairs have been a blower fan motor, main valve seal.

accountCircle Taylor M

No problems thus far! General maintenance throughout the year which is affordable and cost friendly.

accountCircle Melissa J

No technical problems but I do have a tire pressure signal on, the mechanic told me it is a sensor issue.

How Much Is the 2012 Volkswagen Passat Worth?

Blue book values range from $8,404 – 10,343 making the Passat around $1,500 cheaper than a Sonata or Accord. When new, the price range was $20,590 to $32,950. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 15% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Passat?

There are three main models of the Passat available. Technology is very good since it was just redesigned for 2012 with the next major infotainment system update coming in 2015.

S is the entry-level model with:

  • 16-Inch Steel Wheels
  • Cloth Seating
  • Keyless Entry
  • Dual-Zone Climate Control
  • 8-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With Bluetooth and 3.5mm AUX Input

SE is a step up adding features including:

  • 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
  • Premium Vinyl Seating
  • Heated Front Seats
  • Touchscreen Infotainment System

SEL is the flagship model and offers:

  • Leather Seating
  • Remote Ignition
  • Navigation
  • 9-Speaker Fender Premium Stereo System
car
S w/Appearance
170 HP 25 MPG
car
car
SE w/Sunroof & Nav
170 HP 25 MPG
car
TDI SE w/Sunroof
140 HP 34 MPG
car
SE w/Sunroof
280 HP 23 MPG

What Engines Come In the Passat?

  • The base engine is an average 2.5L 5-cylinder with 170 horsepower getting up to 26 MPG combined.
  • An efficient option is the 2.0L 4-cylinder turbodiesel with 140 horsepower, which gets up to 35 MPG combined.
  • The most powerful is the 3.6L V6 making 280 horsepower, which gets 23 MPG combined, and only takes 6.4 seconds to go from 0-60 miles per hour.

What Colors Does the Passat Come In?

How Big Is the Passat?

The Passat is larger than other midsize sedans including the Camry and Altima. Passenger room is great throughout the cabin, easily fitting adults in the backseats with a lot of legroom.

Cargo space is excellent with 15.9 cubic feet of room in the trunk, which is more than most competitors.

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How Does the Passat Compare to the Competition?

The Volkswagen Jetta is another sedan from VW which costs about $1,000 less. Where the Jetta stands out is with a more fun driving experience, but the Passat offers more technology. We recommend the Passat which is a larger and more reliable sedan.

The Toyota Camry is another rival costing about $2,000 more. Reliability ratings are better on the Camry, but the Passat offers more luxury for the money. We recommend the Camry since they are more affordable to own.

Ranks #5 Midsize Cars by Owners

1
car
4.59
2
car
4.54
5
car
4.38

Do Owners Recommend the Volkswagen Passat?

accountCircle Marshall B

Yes, has been reliable and low cost of maintenance are accelerates quickly and handles well. Paint still looks like new seven years later.

accountCircle Stephanie F

Yes it is a good car it serves its purpose and has not ever given me any real issues. I would refer this car to a friend or family member.

accountCircle Janet N

This has been a reliable vehicle. Aside from routine maintenance, needed repairs have been a blower fan motor, main valve seal.

accountCircle Taylor M

I absolutely love it; 130,000 miles and still in pristine condition! Easy and affordable maintenance as well.

accountCircle Angela G

Yes, I like it It's roomy on the inside and looks chic. If I ever switch cars I want to get the VW Atlas because it's the SUV version of the Passat

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Kevin L on June 22, 2021
Overall the car is great and we love it.
This car is great for long distance driving. It does well on gas and very reliable. The heated seats are great for those cold winter days. Bluetooth is perfect for cell phones for driving safely. Even thought it is a factory sound system, the sounds are not bad. Preventive maintenance and service will extend the life of this vehicle for years to come.
accountCircle Morgan C on June 14, 2021
Likes/ dislikes about my Volkswagen passat!
I love my passat! My favorite things about it is the seat warmers, the Bluetooth and how spacious it is! The only complaints I have is I wish I had a backup camera to help see more clearly when backing up. I also wish I could start my car from inside but it is an older model so it is understandable. I also like that it is good with gas!
accountCircle Matthew B on June 6, 2021
White 2012 Volkswagen passat review.
Very strong and reliable car. Gets great miles to the gallon and is very spacious on the inside. Stock speakers sound great and the car runs clean as a whistle. I have never had an issue with a Volkswagen car and I’ll likely by another when if/when my current one finally dies.
accountCircle Rebecca L on June 4, 2021
Love the gas mileage and how fast the car goes.
The car is very good on gas. Spacious inside, front and back seats, and even the trunk. Great radio and sound system. Easy to adjust seats for whatever your comfort may be. All leather interior, easy to clean. Comes with spare tire and a jack. Very good driving on the interstates.
accountCircle Bria M on June 1, 2021
Foreign cars are expensive to maintain!
The transmission has given me problems since I have had my car (only a couple years). This has led to 4 new batteries and multiple new head and tail lights. I have also had to replace the brakes and the radio. Otherwise, it is spacious. It is just so expensive for an oil change and new tires, etc.
accountCircle Wanda J on May 19, 2021
I love the dependability of my Volkswagen passat. It has a classy design.
I love my vehicle. It handles well and is dependable. Heated seats provide comfort during the winter months. I have the luxurious look of an expensive vehicle but more affordably priced. My car is a four door sedan with chrome finish, leather interior with a very quiet engine.
accountCircle Sam M on May 12, 2021
Love the car, but it does not age well.
Performs well, comfortable, has seat warmers and Bluetooth, nice features. Have had many expensive issues arise with it (windows starting getting buggy, problems with check engine light, a/c went out on us once, jerkiness that showed up after a couple of years), but it was bought used with ~100k miles already.
accountCircle Rebecca S on May 11, 2021
Reliable car that holds up under normal driving wear and tear.
Car performs pretty well and has not needed too much service in the 6 years I have had it, pretty good gas mileage and comfortable drive as well. It is a reliable car that has performed well in california’s weather and has good trunk size and a sizable back seat for passengers as well.
accountCircle Peyton S on May 3, 2021
Great car, experienced minor issues.
I love my car. There is plenty of space in the backseat, the interior is nice and easy to use, and I love the way it drives because it is very smooth. I have had a couple of issues with sensors messing up which got annoying over time. Overall a good car and I would recommend to a friend.
accountCircle Patrick T on April 20, 2021
Great for people who commute a lot because of exceptional gas mileage.
Drives smooth, great fuel economy with it being a diesel car. Fast with sports mode and great interior seats that are cloth. Awesome flexibility between city and country or highway. Great stereo/radio that is touch. Overall great car love the design and how it functions.
accountCircle Sherrell J on April 19, 2021
An great car that is excellent on gas mileage.
I love my Volkswagen passat! It is great on gas mileage, you only need an oil change once a year compared to other cars where you need a oil change every 3 months. I haven't had any major issues with my car either. I will purchase Volkswagen's for the rest of my life.
accountCircle Jordan H on April 18, 2021
I love how loud it gets, and how it is able to connect via Bluetooth to a phone!
My vehicle is pretty reliable, as long as everything is up to date. It picks up speed pretty fast, and it is radio features are really nice. The bass is awesome, music sounds great in this car. The heat gets very hot very fast, but the ac takes a bit to get cold air flowing.
accountCircle Mowlid J on April 15, 2021
Automatic transmission 6 speed & sport mode, heated leather seats and Bluetooth.
Only problem with the car is that the rims from the previous owner cracked few months after purchasing the vehicle. The vehicle performance is great, drives smooth and can easily control the car. It has heated seats, Bluetooth audio, and Bose speakers.
accountCircle Johnathan on April 14, 2021
This is my 5th Volkswagen
I’ve had my Passat 3.6 SEL for about 3 years and I love it. I have the tan interior and I don’t recommend it if you have teen kids. It has a lot of room, great on the road and the Fender sound system is amazing. I just did the seafoam treatment and it runs like brand new. Last, I wish it had a little more horsepower. Other than that, it’s a great car.
accountCircle Gissele A on April 6, 2021
The Volkswagen is a great car. Worth it.
It is a great car. Comes with sunroof leather interior, great radio, everything works well. It is a diesel but it is not bad for what it is. The exterior is very beautiful and looks pretty elegant, it is all white and looks very sleek. The speakers of the car are really amazing best feature of the car.
accountCircle Jackie H on April 4, 2021
My car is comfortable and it has Bluetooth! Yay.
I just bought my car so I haven't had a bunch of time with it but so far it is been great. The gas mileage is amazing especially with the gas prices nowadays. It does great on long distance drives which is great for me because I drive long distance often. It is super comfortable and I love how it has Bluetooth for my music and so I can answer the phone handsfree. Also even though it is a small car the truck has a bunch of room and the backseat is extremely roomy. The only downside is that I live in an area that snows a bunch in the winter and I am afraid that it will not do good in the snow since it is front wheel drive. Other than that it is a reliable car and great purchase.
accountCircle Natalie C on April 4, 2021
Volkswagen passat offers comfort and reliability.
I think my car is very reliable and works consistently. I have never had many problems with it, outside of a flat tire here and there. I think it is comfortable and spacious - four people can fit easily in it, and yet the car is not too big to where it is stressful for me to drive. I like my car's stereo - it connects to my phone easily, and offers a CD player which is nice, and it consistently sounds great. I have had some problems with the ac in the past, where in the summer it takes a while to cool down and sometimes will not work, and likewise in the winter can sometimes take a while to heat up.
accountCircle Jackie H on April 2, 2021
It has a lot of storage and great gas mileage,
The breaks are too sensitive and the AC is really strong. However it is a handy car and will last a long time. The Bluetooth radio kind of sucks. However it works well if you put it in a certain sound limit. It hooks up really well to all phones but radio and FM wise is not the widest variety.
accountCircle Dave H on April 1, 2021
It has a lot of power and it is fun and easy to drive.
Has good gas mileage and a lot of power for acceleration. Have not found any dislikes.
accountCircle Jennifer O on March 30, 2021
I love my passat and will buy another one.
I have owned my 2012 Volkswagen passat for six years and have no complaints. The vehicle has been reliable, is fun to drive and looks great. My passat has a lot of power and speed with excellent performance. If I had to mention one thing I do not like in my car it is the navigation system. The screen that is used for typing in the location has a slow response or lag time. This causes mistakes to be made while entering the information. Overall, I love my VW and will probably buy another one someday.
accountCircle Darcy L on March 26, 2021
Safe and reliable family car.
It is a great reliable vehicle! I love the push start, reverse camera and body style! It has been reliable and very safe for me and my family to be in. I highly recommend Volkswagen passat. The gas mileage on it is awesome as well, saves me a lot of money on gas.
accountCircle Jan P on March 19, 2021
Great mileage and easy to maneuver in tight parking spots.
Only issue is tires keep losing pressure. Rims have corrosion that needs to be corrected. Very comfortable to drive and mileage is great. Average 33 to 35 mpg. Mostly town driving. Bluetooth phone reception is not the best will break up especially when outside of city limits. Easy to park.
accountCircle BRUCE R on March 16, 2021
Can't do better in a reliable, well designed and constructed car
It gets great gas mileage. It handles well. It has a comfortable ride.Interior is nicely designed with very little plastic. The car is reasonably priced. No complaints.
accountCircle Themero J on March 7, 2021
Volkswagen passat review!
While the passat goes up against the Honda accord and the Toyota Camry, it feels larger than those two family sedans, particularly from the extra-spacious rear seat. Unfortunately, it also drives like a larger car, with uninspired handling and mediocre acceleration. Refreshed styling for 2020 gives the staid passat a visual freshening but compared with its rivals it is still the grown-up of the group.
accountCircle Meghan R on March 2, 2021
The most reliable silver luxury Volkswagen.
The passat is a reliable commuter car. Its leather seat, wood finish, and fender speakers make for a comfortable, luxurious driving experience. Its ability to convert to sport mode also makes for fun drives. Overall, it feels very smooth while driving and very easily changes speed as needed.
accountCircle Sara S on March 1, 2021
2012 Volkswagen passat: best car ever!
This car is perfect! It is super comfortable, spacious, and drives smoothly. The trunk space is fantastic! I was able to drive my stuff to college with no problems, given I also put the back seats down. I love how once you set up Bluetooth your phone automatically connects to the car every time you enter. It is really convenient. Adjusting the driver's seat is super easy and all electronic. I am very short so the ability to raise the seat as high as I want and as close to the wheel as I want is great!
accountCircle Destiny K on March 1, 2021
Amazing Volkswagen passat gives great comfort while in style.
I do not think anything is wrong with the car. As a relatively new driver it runs well and is easy to drive. It runs nicely and I have had minimal problems throughout having it. My car is navy blue with leather seating and it runs looks beautiful. The seats are comfortable and easy to sit in for long drives. The spacing in the car is very nice as well.
accountCircle Harlan E on February 28, 2021
Would recommend for your average person who needs a four-door vehicle.
Lower to the ground then most other cars I have owned but for me that works well. Handles turns well and can speed/decrease without much issue. An issue I have run into is during the winter time, the proportions of the car cause it to fishtail easily when making wide turns. Has Bluetooth and radio capabilities but I do not use them, instead I just use the aux cord and CD player. Overall a really great vehicle in which I would recommend to friends and family. I will be considering another VW in the future, but perhaps a newer model.
accountCircle Diana D on February 26, 2021
It has high ratings on safety. That's important i think.
I like the safety rating and features. I like the size and look of it too.
accountCircle Tameek J on February 19, 2021
It is a gray car with awesome gas mileage.
Not a bad car but the tires are not good after long distance driving and the leather seat are not good in hot climates. The car is very strong and great air conditioning. The speed of the car is great and it has awesome gas mileage. Good for joy rides and rides to the beach.
accountCircle Erin F on February 16, 2021
Great quality and value. Drives wonderfully.
Love that it is roomy, well-made, feels more luxurious than you’d expect for the price, simple and classy design. Dislike that the interior materials smell like old crayons. Other than that, no complaints at all. I love my car and would buy a Passat or vw again.
accountCircle Mary L on February 13, 2021
It is very comfortable. It is stylish and does not show age as much as other brands.
It is a black Passat. It is very comfortable to ride and take trips in. I am very pleased with it.
accountCircle Mary S on February 11, 2021
That it is roomy and stylish
I like the size and the ease of handling as well as the style.
accountCircle Miranda L on February 10, 2021
It rides so incredibly smooth. The trunk has of space for travel!
I love the streamlined appearance of the interior and it is so comfortable!
accountCircle Jean K on February 4, 2021
It's paid for, we would buy it again, it has traveled across country.
Comfortable ride. Has good pickup. Has been very reliable.
accountCircle Ashley K on January 31, 2021
I would like for it to have full on leather seats.
I am really in love with my Volkswagen passat sel. I have owned 3 VW; s in my lifetime and I really like them. They are very reliable vehicles and mine is the top of the line so it has all the bells and whistles. I would like for it to have full on leather seats since it is the top of the line passat but instead it has half cloth and half leather.
accountCircle Anthony B on January 29, 2021
This passat is a great vehicle and I love it.
This is the first Volkswagen I've ever owned. I absolutely love it. I have owned it for just over a year and it has been a very reliable vehicle. It has the power I need along with the comfort I desire. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a vehicle to get to and from work. I was truly just looking for something that I can have to get me to work and not have to worry about it breaking down all the time. It has a huge trunk that I can fit all my junk in. The heating and ac works great as well as the stereo sounds so good. Great car overall no complaints.
accountCircle Alexis B on January 27, 2021
Great car for everybody. Young, old, single, married, children, you name it!
My Volkswagen is incredible. I really love the fact that it has so much leg room in the back seat, being that I'm tall and I don't like small back seats. It rides very smooth. I always get compliments on it. Many people think it's a very expensive sports car because it looks so nice. The gas mileage is unbeatable. The speakers sound incredible. I love the touch screen as well. Really a great car all around and would recommend to anybody. Even with those with children and a family because it's so roomy!
accountCircle Leonel A on January 25, 2021
Very comfortable and drives and feels like the first day I bought it.
I bought with 6000 miles fairly new. I now have 189,000 trouble free miles. It still leaves no oil spots and still drives like a new car. It's been hit in the front end by a backhoe and was still able to drive it home get it repaired and drives like a new car.
accountCircle frank L on January 25, 2021
Great reliable car overall, just be prepared to budget for maintenance cost.
Personally I do not have any issues with the overall performance of my vehicle. I find it to be a comfortable smooth to drive. I will say that the touch screen interface can be upgraded to respond quicker and the cabin noise reduced. The only other con to purchasing this car as far as I am concerned is the expensive maintenance/parts cost.
accountCircle David N on January 21, 2021
Beautiful design, very conservative gas usage, well-thought out interior design.
I love my car. The only problem I have had with the car is the air conditioning is not cold enough. The dealership stated that it was a side effect of the green technology used to differentiate the car. Otherwise the wheels that came with the car needed to replaced, as they are not strong enough to survive city potholes.
accountCircle Alison E on January 13, 2021
2012 Volkswagen passat (bought used).
I love my passat! It runs on diesel so gas is a little more expensive but it gets such great mileage that I am pretty sure I've reduced my gas expenses despite diesel costing more. I have had my passat for 6 months and the only issue I have had was a flat tire, and that was only because I drove over a nail. I also love the sunroof and heated leather seats, and I love the way it handles and how smooth it rides.
accountCircle Nila A on December 31, 2020
Nice sleek model and design.
Very nice craftsmanship. High maintenance and sometimes difficult to get serviced depending on location. Nice sleek model and design. Breaks are sensitive and tight. Steering wheel does become stiffer over time. Bluetooth compatibility included. Great cooling and heat.
accountCircle Toby W on December 29, 2020
Very reliable and dependable
I like it a lot. Never had a problem with it at all. Just regular maintenance. Keep up with all that and you'll have a great vehicle. Very comfortable and affordable as well. Drives smooth and has some very nice features in it as well. I've had it for seven years now and still going strong.
accountCircle Katie W on December 26, 2020
Good quality and spacious car.
I bought my 2012 vehicle used in 2014. It has performed above my expectations for the last 6 years. The car was very affordable and has had no issues. The only things needed done to the car so far have been routine maintenance items. I have about 150,000 miles on it currently. I love how much space is in this vehicle! I bought it before I had kids, had twins a few years later and am surprised with how well my family of 4 fit. It is tight, but we are even able to take this car for a week long vacation/road trip. I am so happy in this car!
accountCircle Kris F on December 22, 2020
VW Passat Love It! Both A beautiful and dependable vehicle!
It is a beautiful vehicle, it is nice looking and smooth ride, it is very dependable. It looks like a more expensive vehicle than it actually is. Very classy and everyone I know says they love it also. Would definitely buy another newer model one. The newer model are even nicer and have even more features.
accountCircle Shane L on December 22, 2020
Great commuter car for work and recreation.
Not the best acceleration. Had it for a few years. Drives great, quiet, spacious. Radio works well. Has a pretty large trunk. Comes with a spare tire and tools to change a tire.Seats are comfortable. Lean back. Has cruise control, an automatic, great braking system. Car has been through a lot, and haven't had a huge amount of upkeep on it.
accountCircle Kayla F on December 21, 2020
My car has a diesel engine and great mileage!
I love that my car is a diesel engine! I only spend $40 a month on diesel fuel and I get great mileage! However, when repairs are needed to my car it is hard to find a mechanic that will fix my car, I have to end up taking it to the dealership which ends up costing a lot.
accountCircle Ryan R on December 18, 2020
I will forever be a passat owner.
It runs like a dream. Handles great, especially with sport mode.. Great legroom for tall people (especially in back seat). I contend it is best value on the market, I will absolutely be buying another one. Volkswagen incentives make the decision a no-brainer.
accountCircle Brook M on December 17, 2020
Map, speakers, heated seats.
This car is the best on corners great on gas and is very reliable it's ok for snow it is very fast and easy to use plus it has navigation and many more features I love the fact that it have a map built in because if my phone don't work I have the car plus the speakers are amazing too.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.