2019 Volkswagen Passat Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　

What's new

Streamlined to just two trim levels: Wolfsburg Edition and SE R-LineMore driver assistance features come standard on base trimPart of the fourth Passat generation introduced for 2012

　　Evolution and innovation are priorities for automakers trying to keep pace with changing consumer tastes. But occasionally a model remains popular without continual updates and design changes. The 2019 Volkswagen Passat embodies the "if it isn't broke" ethos, soldiering on with the same look since the current generation debuted eight years ago. Most rival sedans have undergone the knife during that span, but the Passat's successful formula is a testament to its timeless style and practical personality.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2019 Volkswagen Passat Wolfsburg Edition 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$127/mo  for Passat Wolfsburg Edition

　　Passat Wolfsburg Edition

　　Wolfsburg Edition 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) (Most Popular) - $25,295 MSRPSE R-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) - $29,995 MSRP

　　vs

　　$164/mo

　　Avg. Midsize Car

　　Changes are on the horizon for the Passat, however, with a full redesign likely for next year's model. Unsurprisingly, changes for 2019 are few. The lineup is streamlined to just two trim levels, and more modern driver aids filter down to the base model. Eliminating multiple trim levels — last year's model offered six — means less flexibility for a buyer's budget, but the choice is easier: Do you prefer base trim or fully featured?

　　What hasn't changed are the ingredients of the Passat's successful formula: a roomy cabin, large and useful trunk, quiet ride, and easy-to-drive nature. The Passat isn't the go-to sedan if you're seeking flash, flair or a hint of speedy thrills. But it makes an excellent family shuttle, a car for around-town driving with friends or colleagues and a long-distance vehicle for road tripping in quiet comfort.

　　

zzdcar' Expert Rating

7.0 / 10

　　

Trim tested

　　Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Volkswagen Passat R-Line (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | 6-speed automatic | FWD).

　　

Scorecard

Overall	7.0 / 10
Driving	6.0
Comfort	6.5
Interior	8.0
Utility	8.5
Technology	7.0

　　

Driving

6.0

　　With the exception of the well-tuned steering, the Passat's performance is a bit of a disappointment in the current midsize sedan class. It's slower than previous generations of the nameplate, it has subpar braking performance, and it fumbles away the smooth, effortless drivability it used to have in spades.

　　

Acceleration

6.0

　　At part throttle, the Passat moves away smoothly and effortlessly, but even moderate acceleration reveals an uneven power delivery with oddly unsmooth shifting from the automatic transmission. It takes 8.5 seconds to accelerate to 60 mph, slower than most midsize sedans in the class.

　　

Braking

6.0

　　Our test Passat has the same sort of long, spongy brake pedal we've experienced in other VWs before. It's not offensive during light applications on the highway, but it's irritating in more purposeful practice. Emergency braking distances were longer than we typically see in this class.

　　

Steering

8.0

　　The steering feels direct but not overly sensitive. It's just enough to feel taut, connected and accurate for such a large sedan, and the power assist is well-weighted. It definitely gives the driver confidence.

　　

Handling

6.5

　　The handling capabilities may be good, but the driver will never know because there's no provision to shut off or reduce the rather conservative stability control system. While tight, twisty roads aren't its forte, the Passat is absolutely at home on higher-speed, smooth roads with gentle bends.

　　

Drivability

6.0

　　If driven with a light foot, either in the city or on the open highway, the Passat delivers the kind of relaxed and effortless drive we'd expect. But when rushed, even slightly, it reveals a disappointing lack of power alongside strange shifting characteristics.

　　

Comfort

6.5

　　The Volkswagen Passat shines in this category, especially when long-distance driving is considered. It's a quiet cruiser. If you head out on lots of road trips, especially with a full load of friends, the Passat is a great choice. Just be sure to steer clear of the R-Line and its ride-ruining wheel and tire package.

　　

Seat comfort

7.0

　　Firm, supportive front seats further the Passat's claim as one of the best long-distance cruisers in the segment. There's a ton of rear-seat room, but the rear backrest is more upright than an Accord or a Camry, which some may find less comfortable.

　　

Ride comfort

5.5

　　The Passat is a car that usually favors comfort over agility. But when equipped with the sportier R-Line package, its ride comfort suffers on anything not perfectly smooth. The 19-inch wheels and tires crash over imperfections and create a busy and unsettled experience.

　　

Noise & vibration

7.5

　　With its well-isolated turbocharged engine, there tends to be less noise emanating from its engine bay, even under full throttle and when chugging up hills. Wind noise was a nonissue, but the R-Line's 19-inch tires were the source of some road noise.

　　

Climate control

7.5

　　Volkswagen knows how to make an easy-to-use climate control system, and the Passat's is no exception. The controls are simple and clear, and the coverage from the vents is good. Rear passengers have their own vents but no climate controls.

　　

Interior

8.0

　　The Passat is big but easy to see out of and not especially complicated to use. Really, this German sedan is one of the most old-school American cars on the road. Essentially, it's a full-size sedan for a midsize price.

　　

Ease of use

7.0

　　The interior is not cluttered with buttons, and basic controls are easily found and deciphered. However, the touchscreen that's found on Wolfsburg models is on the small side and is placed a bit too low. Same goes for the otherwise simple climate controls.

　　

Getting in/getting out

8.0

　　The big, light doors and good-size openings facilitate entry and exit. The more formal roofline makes the rear seat easier to access than competitors that have sleeker, lower rooflines (Mazda 6, Ford Fusion).

　　

Driving position

6.0

　　The driver's seat adjusts eight ways but lacks the seat-cushion tilt that provides extra under-thigh support. Taller folks and long-legged drivers may wish for more steering-wheel telescoping range so they can avoid driving with their arms straight out.

　　

Roominess

8.0

　　The Passat looks, feels and is enormous. The large, airy cabin has tons of head- and legroom all around. Rear passengers won't feel claustrophobic.

　　

Visibility

8.5

　　Big windows, thin-ish roof pillars and a squared-off roofline make it easier to see out. Seeing while in reverse may be difficult due to the long rear deck, but the standard rearview camera will help with that.

　　

Quality

7.5

　　The Passat no longer boasts the standout, best-in-class interior quality of past VWs. Some materials are pleasing to touch and the switchgear is excellent, but there's a lot of hard plastic that cheapens the look and feel of the interior.

　　

Utility

8.5

　　The usable space in a Passat's trunk is impressive. Never mind the numbers, it feels class-leading. Small-item storage is unremarkable and bettered by other midsize competitors, but there's still enough storage for most.

　　

Small-item storage

7.0

　　A covered bin under the center stack holds a USB port and is big enough for even jumbo smartphones. The cupholders are of average size, and the center console bin is a bit small.

　　

Cargo space

8.5

　　Yes, its 15.9-cubic-foot measurement is about average for the segment, but in practice the exceptionally deep and wide trunk is still one of the better executions in terms of usable space. All four adults in the cabin can each bring along a rather sizable suitcase.

　　

Child safety seat accommodation

9.0

　　The Passat has two sets of LATCH anchors in the outboard back seats that are easy to use. There are three tether anchors on the parcel shelf. Rear-facing car seats fit easily and the front passenger's seat doesn't need to be moved forward to accommodate one.

　　

Technology

7.0

　　The Passat's technology is acceptable, both in terms of its features and the controls for them. With infotainment and driver's aids, the offerings are fairly standard for the segment. The Passat does not distinguish itself here.

　　

Audio & navigation

7.0

　　The 6.3-inch touchscreen is a bit on the small side and is positioned a tad too low. Functionality is just OK. It doesn't confuse or frustrate, but others are better. Navigation was not included on our test car, but it is available via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

　　

Smartphone integration

7.5

　　VW Car-Net is standard, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. They work as they do in most other brands. An auxiliary jack and Bluetooth are included should you choose not to use Apple or Android connectivity.

　　

Driver aids

7.5

　　The adaptive cruise control system maintains a natural distance and brakes and accelerates in a sensible manner.

　　

Which Passat does zzdcar recommend?

　　With just two trim levels to choose from, your choice comes down to how many premium features you want. We suggest the Wolfsburg Edition. It covers the key bases with 17-inch alloy wheels, simulated-leather upholstery, heated front seats and a 6.3-inch touchscreen interface, among other features.

　　

2019 Volkswagen Passat models

　　The 2019 Volkswagen Passat comes in two trim levels: Wolfsburg Edition and SE R-Line. Both are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (174 horsepower, 184 pound-feet of torque) and a six-speed automatic transmission.

　　Standard features on the Wolfsburg Edition include 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, heated side mirrors, a rearview camera, keyless ignition and entry, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, 60/40-split folding rear seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth, VW's Car-Net smartphone integration (includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink), a 6.3-inch touchscreen, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, one USB port and an auxiliary audio jack.

　　Enhanced driver aids include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, while options include a sunroof and 18-inch wheels.

　　The SE R-Line adds 19-inch alloy wheels, unique R-Line styling elements, LED headlights and taillights, a sunroof, remote start, a hands-free opening trunk, rain-sensing wipers, transmission shift paddles, ambient cabin lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, a navigation system, a premium Fender audio system, and an upgraded version of Car-Net with enhanced security and navigation features.

　　The SE R-Line also comes with additional driver aids, including active blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and front and rear parking sensors.

　　

2019 Passat Highlights

Trim: Wolfsburg EditionSE R-LineWolfsburg Edition

　　

Base MSRP	$25,295
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	29 MPG
Cost to Drive	$127/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	15.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	6 years / 72,000 miles