2000 Volkswagen Passat: Road Test

Archived Review

2000 Volkswagen Passat 

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  • MSRP: $21,200 -$28,455
  • Invoice: $19,293 -$25,847

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Our road test for the 2000 Volkswagen Passat includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Volkswagen Passat from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Volkswagen Passat, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Volkswagen Passat help you decide if a 2000 Volkswagen Passat is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

GLS sdn, I4 man. GLS/GLX wgn, V6 auto. Class Average
5 5 4.7

The turbo four/automatic combination feels underpowered. Manual-transmission models and V6 Passats have fine overall acceleration. 4Motion is a boon to traction.

FUEL ECONOMY

GLS sdn, I4 man. GLS/GLX wgn, V6 auto. Class Average
6 5 5.4

Our 4-cylinder automatic test Passat averaged 22.2 mpg. We haven't had an opportunity to measure fuel economy with the V6. VW recommends premium fuel for both engines.

RIDE QUALITY

GLS sdn, I4 man. GLS/GLX wgn, V6 auto. Class Average
7 7 5

The suspension smothers all but the worst bumps. A solid structure adds to the sense of comfort.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

GLS sdn, I4 man. GLS/GLX wgn, V6 auto. Class Average
6 7 5

All Passats have crisp handling, responsive steering, and arrow-true highway stability.

QUIETNESS

GLS sdn, I4 man. GLS/GLX wgn, V6 auto. Class Average
6 6 5

Engines are smooth and muted. Wind rush is low, but the tires generate more noise than in many compact family cars.

CONTROLS

GLS sdn, I4 man. GLS/GLX wgn, V6 auto. Class Average
7 7 6

Readable gauges and simple controls. Interior decor isn't fancy, but nothing feels low-budget and GLS V6 and GLX models have real wood trim.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

GLS sdn, I4 man. GLS/GLX wgn, V6 auto. Class Average
6 6 5.2

Fine overall, though 6-footers have only about a half-inch head clearance beneath the available moonroof.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

GLS sdn, I4 man. GLS/GLX wgn, V6 auto. Class Average
5 5 4.1

Leg room is plentiful and the firm seat is nicely contoured.

CARGO ROOM

GLS sdn, I4 man. GLS/GLX wgn, V6 auto. Class Average
4 8 4.5

Cavernous trunk with a low liftover and large opening. The wagons are spacious, useful, and among the few in this class.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

GLS sdn, I4 man. GLS/GLX wgn, V6 auto. Class Average
5 5 5.3

Four-cylinder/automatic transmission Passats have barely acceptable acceleration for modern family cars, so try the different powertrain combinations to see which fits your needs. Otherwise, the sporty, spacious, solid Passat is strong on features per dollar, powertrain warranty, and European personality.

Total Score

GLS sdn, I4 man. GLS/GLX wgn, V6 auto. Class Average
57 61 50.2

Total Score: 59

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score
38
Average Score
50
High Score
65

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