The VW Passat offers reliability and space, writes DONAL BYRNE.
SOME CARS are popular for good reason, and Volkswagen's Passat is a prime example. Stylish, practical, spacious and well built, the Passat has been a favourite family and business car since its launch. Lately, it has offered even better equipment levels and become a competitor for more expensive brands like Audi, Mercedes and BMW.
But is the Passat up to such ambition? Certainly, it punches above its weight in several respects, but there are still questions about whether VW has cracked early reliability issues.
The Passat dropped 30 places in last year's JD Power customer satisfaction survey - one of the industry's main benchmarks - to 77th place. Many obviously still feel the Passat has unacceptable levels of interior trim and reliability.
Interestingly, there has only been one major recall in the past few years (wipers failed on many cars up to 2007), so recurring problems have obviously been niggles, rather than ones that would warrant a recall.
These problems apart, plenty of Passats on the second-hand market mean there are bargains to be had. The most popular engine has always been diesel and you would be well advised to buy as new as you can; the Bluemotion 2 common-rail diesel launched in 2007 has improved gearing and aerodynamics and can give 50 miles to the gallon.
On the other hand, the older 1.6 petrol (either the 1.6 FSi and the newer 1.4 TSi are best) feels dated. Other advantages are styling, space and comfort. Seats are strong, the boot is good and everything is practical. On an open road, the Passat feels secure and strong. Ride, handling and steering are all acceptable.
Standard equipment is also very good. Bluetooth compatability is normally standard. Expect six airbags and electronic stability control. The car has a maximum five-star rating in the EuroNCAP programme.
A standard 2006 with 1.6 petrol engine and 56,000km is at one garage for €16,950. A 2007 with 1.9 TDi engine and 62,000km is €17,995. A 2008 Bluemotion with better diesel and only 21,000km is €19,995. I would look for the 2008 at the 2006 price.
STAR RATING:6/10