1998-2005 Volkswagen Passat: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Volkswagen Passat
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1998-2005 Volkswagen Passat ▼
- Price Range: $2,400 - $15,000
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1998-2005 Volkswagen Passat and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Ride
- Side airbags
- Standard antilock braking
- Build quality
- Cargo room
- Passenger room
Cons
- Acceleration (Turbo w/automatic)
- Tire noise
Vehicle Highlights
Volkswagen borrowed some elements from A4 and A6 models issued by Audi, its sister-company, to give the redesigned Passat family sedan a touch of sportiness. Passat had been around since 1990, as Volkswagen's biggest automobile. Compared to the previous Passat, the new model was about 3 inches longer in wheelbase, 4 inches longer overall, and about an inch wider and taller. The new look reflected the crescent-form styling that had first been seen in sedans from Audi (which was owned by VW).Passat came in 4-door sedan and station wagon body styles. Introduced first was a GLS with Audi's 1.8-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Later came a GLS V6 and a top-line GLX sedan, powered by Audi's 2.8-liter V6 engine. Wagons came only with the 4-cylinder this year. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard on GLS models. Optional on the GLS and standard on GLX was a Porsche-designed 5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, with manual-shift mode. Antilock braking, seat-mounted front side airbags, and low-speed traction control were standard in all Passats. The GLX added leather upholstery, a Monsoon sound system, and (on sedans) a rear-window sunshade. Rivals included the Ford Contour, Mazda 626, and Subaru Legacy.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | 5 Volkswagen Passat GLS V6, auto Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 5 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 58 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1998-2005 Volkswagen Passat. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1998-2005 Volkswagen Passat.
Year to Year Changes
1999 Volkswagen Passat/ CC:
Volkswagen planned an all-wheel-drive system and a V6 engine for the wagon, but both changes were delayed.
2000 Volkswagen Passat/ CC:
Base-model GLS Passats gained standard heated front seats and windshield-washer nozzles (which previously were optional). A wood gearshift knob went into the GLX, and all models added an antitheft-coded ignition key and a brake-wear indicator. Dealers could install a dashboard CD player. During 2000, Volkswagen's 4Motion all-wheel-drive system became available.
2001 Volkswagen Passat/ CC:
No significant changes were made for 2001. Significant changes were made midyear to an '01 1/2 model.
2001.5 Volkswagen Passat/ CC:
The 2001.5 sedans and wagons added a new nose with chrome accents, transparent taillamp elements, chassis revisions, and altered gauge appearance. Base GLS models had a 1.8-liter turbo 4-cyl, now with 170 hp, up 20.
2002 Volkswagen Passat/ CC:
The W8 sedan and wagon, named for their innovative 270-hp 8-cyl engine made up of two V4 modules, were new for 2002. A 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate replaced the 5-speed manual. Introduced later in the year was a W8 Sport Package with a 6-speed manual, plus firmer suspension and 17-inch tires instead of 16s. VW's bumper-to-bumper warranty increased to 4 years/50,000 mi. from 2/24,000, with powertrains covered for 5/60,000 instead of 10/100,000.
2003 Volkswagen Passat/ CC:
A base GL model was added and a 6-speed manual transmission became available on the W8.
2004 Volkswagen Passat/ CC:
VW made AWD available on more models and added a diesel engine to the lineup for 2004.
2005 Volkswagen Passat/ CC:
Passat sheds its unpopular W8 models, but makes few other changes for this final year of its current design. For '05, GL models are available only with the turbodiesel engine. Also for 2005, GLS models exchange 15-inch alloy wheels for standard 16s, while GLX models swap 16s for standard 17-inch alloy wheels. The discontinued W8 had a 270-hp 8-cyl engine. VW says redesigned 2006 Passats begin sale in late 2005.
Our road test for the 1998-2005 Volkswagen Passat includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1998-2005 Volkswagen Passat and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1998-2005 Volkswagen Passat is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Regardless of trim level, Passat's suspension smothers all but the worst bumps and dips, and a tangibly solid structure only adds to the sense of comfort. Obviously GLX and W8 models ride more firmly, but they are never overly harsh. Braking is swift and undramatic from most any speed. Wind noise is low. Gas turbos are quiet enough and generally free of turbo-lag hesitation. However, with automatic transmission, the engine just does not have the brawn for quick getaways and easy high-gear climbing up long, steep grades. The Tiptronic's manual-shift capability helps somewhat. The standard 5-speed manual transmission transforms the engine somewhat into a lively, eager runner. With Tiptronic the base four averaged 22.2 mpg, but premium fuel is recommend. If fuel economy isn't your top priority, smoother and more powerful V6 is a better all around engine. Near 2-ton W8 did 7.2 sec in our 0-60 mph runs vs. VW's claimed 6.5, but had ample midrange punch. It averaged 16.2 mpg. We'd recommend the V6 or W8 engine if you're not an ardent fan of manual transmissions. Turbodiesel's around-town acceleration matches the base gas four, but doesn't have much passing kick. Fuel economy is a huge plus though, our tester averaging over 35 mpg in mixed driving. Passat's ace in the hole has always been generous interior room, and this one continues that tradition. Expect spacious comfort for four adults (even five on short hops), plus an almost cavernous trunk and easy entry/exit. Six-footers have only about a half-inch of head clearance beneath the available moonroof, but leg room is plentiful all around. Combining readable gauges and simple controls, the dashboard also is Audi-like, except for simpler climate controls and different--but still very legible--gauges. Visibility is fine except to the rear, where the styling hides the car's corners. Like Audi's A4, Passat feels impressively stout, even on the worst roads. Overall fit and finish are equally satisfying, but interior decor looks a bit drab. Nothing feels low-budget, however, and the GLS V6 and GLX flaunt real wood trim. Materials and workmanship rival those of more costly automobiles.
Value for the Money
Turbo fours with automatic don't have much strength for a modern family 4 door. If possible, try the different engine/transmission combinations to see which one fits your needs. Otherwise, VW's largest car is suave, sporty, spacious, and solid. It's also strong on features per dollar and "European" personality. We'd give it a good long look. Recent reliability gremlins make us hesitant to recommend this vehicle to value-conscious shoppers.
Turbo fours with automatic don't have much strength for a modern family 4 door. If possible, try the different engine/transmission combinations to see which one fits your needs. Otherwise, VW's largest car is suave, sporty, spacious, and solid. It's also strong on features per dollar and "European" personality. We'd give it a good long look. Recent reliability gremlins make us hesitant to recommend this vehicle to value-conscious shoppers.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | 5 Volkswagen Passat GLS V6, auto Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 5 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 58 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Volkswagen Passat/ CC includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Volkswagen Passat/ CC .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Coolant leak:
Coolant loss on 2.8-liter engines could result from damaged oil cooler hoses. Hoses might be damaged during oil changes. (1998-99)
Coolant leak:
Backfires due to faulty plugs dislodge the idle control damper from the rear of the VR6 engine causing rough, or no idle. (1998-04)
Rough idle:
Backfires due to faulty plugs dislodge the idle control damper from the rear of the VR6 engine causing rough, or no idle. (1998-04)
Vehicle noise:
The speakers in the doors may rattle due to loose rivets. (1998-99)
Windows:
The windows suffer from stress cracks and distortion. (1999-2000)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $595 |
| Alternator | $640 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $790 |
| Brakes | $390 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $585 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,320 |
| Exhaust System | $595 |
| Radiator | $560 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $670 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $430 |
Our price chart for this generation Volkswagen Passat/ CC details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
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| 2005 | |||
| Passat 4-cylinder | $11,500-14,000 | $10,400-12,600 | $6,300-7,700 |
| Passat 4-cylinder AWD | $14,000-15,200 | $12,700-13,800 | $8,500-9,300 |
| Passat TDI | $14,000-16,500 | $12,700-15,000 | $8,500-10,100 |
| Passat V6 | $14,500-15,700 | $13,200-14,300 | $9,000-9,700 |
| Passat V6 AWD | $15,300-16,500 | $13,900-15,000 | $9,800-10,600 |
| 2004 | |||
| Passat 4-cylinder | $9,600-12,000 | $8,600-10,800 | $5,000-6,200 |
| Passat 4-cylinder AWD | $11,800-13,000 | $10,600-11,700 | $6,600-7,300 |
| Passat TDI | $12,000-14,500 | $10,800-13,100 | $6,700-8,100 |
| Passat V6 | $12,000-13,200 | $10,800-11,900 | $6,700-7,400 |
| Passat V6 AWD | $13,200-14,500 | $12,000-13,200 | $7,700-8,400 |
| Passat W8 | $13,800-15,000 | $12,600-13,700 | $8,300-9,000 |
| 2003 | |||
| Passat 4-cylinder | $7,800-9,300 | $7,000-8,400 | $4,000-4,700 |
| Passat V6 | $9,000-10,200 | $8,100-9,200 | $4,700-5,300 |
| Passat V6 AWD | $10,800-11,800 | $9,700-10,600 | $5,800-6,400 |
| Passat W8 | $11,200-12,500 | $10,100-11,300 | $6,000-6,800 |
| 2002 | |||
| Passat 4-cylinder | $6,500-7,500 | $5,700-6,600 | $2,900-3,400 |
| Passat V6 | $7,200-8,500 | $6,400-7,600 | $3,500-4,200 |
| Passat V6 AWD | $8,200-9,500 | $7,400-8,600 | $4,200-4,800 |
| Passat W8 | $9,300-10,500 | $8,400-9,500 | $4,800-5,500 |
| 2001 | |||
| Passat 4-cylinder | $5,200-6,000 | $4,400-5,100 | $2,100-2,400 |
| Passat V6 | $5,700-7,700 | $4,900-6,600 | $2,300-3,200 |
| Passat V6 AWD | $6,500-8,500 | $5,700-7,500 | $2,900-3,800 |
| 2000 | |||
| Passat 4-cylinder | $4,300-5,000 | $3,600-4,200 | $1,500-1,700 |
| Passat V6 | $4,700-5,900 | $3,900-5,000 | $1,800-2,200 |
| Passat V6 AWD | $5,300-6,600 | $4,600-5,700 | $2,200-2,700 |
| 1999 | |||
| Passat 4-cylinder | $3,700-4,400 | $3,000-3,600 | $1,100-1,300 |
| Passat V6 | $4,000-4,700 | $3,300-3,900 | $1,300-1,500 |
| 1998 | |||
| Passat 4-cylinder | $3,100-4,200 | $2,400-3,300 | $700-1,000 |
| Passat V6 | $3,300-4,000 | $2,600-3,200 | $800-1,000 |
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Volkswagen Passat/ CC include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 106.4 | 106.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 184.1 | 183.8 |
| Overall Width, in. | 68.5 | 68.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.4 | 59.0 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3120 | 3194 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 15.0 | 78.7 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 | 16.3 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.7 | 39.7 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.5 | 41.5 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.8 | 39.7 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.3 | 35.3 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Two very different engines were available under Passat hoods, depending on model. The turbocharged, dual-overhead-cam 1.8-liter 4-cylinder developed 150 horsepower. A twin-cam, 2.8-liter V6 went into the GLS V6 and GLX models. Either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic, with manual-shift provision, might be installed. Model-year 2001 1/2 GLS models had a 1.8-liter turbo 4-cyl, now with 170 hp, up 20. The W8 sedan and wagon, named for their innovative 270-hp 8-cyl engine made up of two V4 modules, were new for 2002. A 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate replaced the 5-speed manual. Introduced later in the year was a W8 Sport Package that included a 6-speed manual transmission. In mid-2004 VW added a turbocharged diesel to the engine lineup. Slightly larger than the diesel offered in the Golf, this 2.0-liter four made 134 horsepower and mated to 5-speed automatic transmission. Discontinued in 2005 was the W8 model, with a 270-hp 8-cyl engine. Also for 2005, GL models are available only with the turbodiesel engine.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| Turbodiesel ohc I4 | 2.0 / 121 | 134 | 247 | 5-speed automatic: 27/38 | 5-speed automatic: 35.2 |
| ohc W8 | 4.0 / 244 | 270 | 273 | 6-speed manual: 17/24 5-speed automatic: 18/25 |
6-speed manual: -- 5-speed automatic: 16.2 |
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | 1.8 / 109 | 150-170 | 155-166 | 5-speed manual: 23/32 5-speed automatic: 21/31 |
5-speed manual: 21 5-speed automatic: 22.2 |
| dohc V6 | 2.8 / 169 | 190-200 | 206-207 | 5-speed manual: 20/29 5-speed automatic: 18/29 |
5-speed manual: -- 5-speed automatic: 19.2 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: Germany
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Volkswagen Passat/ CC include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 Passat |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1998-2005 Volkswagen Passat directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1998:
If engine backfires during cold-start, an air screen loosely seated in airflow meter can become damaged; screen pieces could enter intake system and prevent the throttle plate from returning to its full idle position.
1998-00:
If the rear tire goes flat and the vehicle is driven too long afterwards, the fuel-tank filler neck can wear, causing a fuel leak and possible fire.
1998-99 w/automatic transmission:
Control valve may not open or close fully at temperatures below -4 degrees (F) under certain conditions, causing insufficient vacuum for the brake booster.
1998-99:
Some tie-rod seals may not seal properly; if moisture and/or dust particles enter the swivel bearing mechanism, the bearing could wear over time, diminishing steering control.
1999-2005 Passat with 1.8T engine produced after June 14, 1999:
A fuel line may leak due to a fracture, which increases risk of fire. Dealers will reroute fuel lines and replace them, if necessary. Also, vehicle software will receive a precautionary update.
1999-2005 Passat with 4Motion all-wheel drive produced after June 14, 1999:
A fuel-tank ventilation valve may leak, which increases risk of fire. Dealers will inspect and replace components if necessary.
1999-2005 Passat with automatic transmission, produced after June 14, 1999:
These vehicles may have an underbody heat shield that can become damaged. If this occurs, the heat shield may contact the exhaust system, which increases risk of fire. Dealers will install additional underbody heat shields on vehicles with automatic transmissions to cover the possibly damaged areas.
2000-01:
Sulfur in fuel could cause fuel gauge to read "full" when the tank is actually less than full.
2004-05 diesel:
High-pressure diesel pump may contain an improper fastener, which could allow diesel fuel to escape.
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