2022 Volkswagen Passat Sedan

　　

2022 Volkswagen Passat Review

byAlex NishimotoCorrespondent

　　Alex Nishimoto has worked in the automotive industry since 2007. He was a staff writer for MotorTrend for 10 years and since then has contributed to CNET, PRI, AutoWise and other publications.

　　The Volkswagen Passat has been the German automaker's midsize sedan offering in the U.S. since 1989. Now in its fourth generation, the 2022 Passat will be the last sold on this side of the pond. The midsizer's demise is due in part to a shift in consumer preferences toward SUVs, but the Passat's decade-old platform certainly didn't help its case.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 Volkswagen Passat SE 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 $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$130/mo  for Passat SE

　　Passat SE

　　SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) (Most Popular) - $27,575 MSRPR-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) - $29,575 MSRPLimited Edition 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) - $30,575 MSRP

　　vs

　　$165/mo

　　Avg. Midsize Car

　　The Passat received a largely cosmetic update in 2020, but it also got some useful features including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Despite that, the aging Passat struggles to compete with newer sedans like the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5, which all have newer in-car tech, a wider array of drivetrain choices, and a more exciting driving experience. The Passat does have a smooth ride and a large back seat, making it a viable choice if those are your priorities. Check out the in-depth evaluation in our Expert Rating to find out if the Volkswagen Passat is the car for you.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Average

　　7.6

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.0/10

　　How does the Passat drive? It's acceptable but nothing exceptional. The engine lacks punch, making the Passat one of the slowest vehicles in its class. And unlike much of the competition, there's no optional engine to improve performance. There's a delay when you step on the gas, and the transmission is eager to upshift, furthering the sense that there's just not much sizzle here. The Passat feels sluggish when passing on the highway.

　　Another issue is braking performance. In our testing, the Passat's panic-stopping distances were longer than average for a midsize sedan. An uneven pedal response makes coming to a smooth stop somewhat frustrating too. The situation is a little better when the road bends. Around turns, the Passat is smooth and composed. The steering lacks feedback, but it's light and quick, making it relatively easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces.

　　

Comfort

8.0/10

　　How comfortable is the Passat? Volkswagen errs on the side of plush. It delivers on comfort with a smooth ride that tunes out most imperfections in the road. Some drivers may prefer a firmer and sportier ride, but the Passat is plenty comfortable for the daily drive. The wide and supportive front seats help too. You might want more substantial padding from the Passat's seats, but the "relaxed-fit" shape still does a decent job of keeping you planted around turns.

　　The dual-zone climate control works great, with powerfully cold air conditioning and vents for rear passengers. The fans can be on the loud side when cranked up, but not obnoxiously so. Otherwise the Passat is relatively quiet with just a bit of tire noise on uneven surfaces.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below