Is Big And Comfy Enough? | 2020 Volkswagen Passat

I think shrinking sedan sales are part of a self-fulfilling prophecy. It goes like this: families want crossovers, so we should focus on driving dynamics and styling to appeal to the remaining pool. This results in a less practical sedan, driving more families away from the mid-size sedan driving it further down the "sporty" rabbit hole. But there are a few options which have bucked this trend and the Passat is one of them. It has a big back seat, tons of legroom and a spacious trunk. The fuel economy is good and the design is uncontroversial. Can it attract some of the former demographic back?
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[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

One quick correction: the cargo space is 15.9 cubic feet, somehow the on-screen overlay got mixed up. My bad.

[@GeekRedux]

I keep expecting a 1980s science education video after the intro.

[@FantomLightning]

I still want to talk with the person that designed the radio volume knob with the power symbol that rotates... And by talk I mean beat with a metal baseball bat...

[@MacDeLorean]

Alex, thanks so much for continuing to elaborate on vital driver’s seat details involving thigh support and related seat bottom cushion length and seat pan tilt adjustments. This is extremely valuable information that is often overlooked or minimized from other review sources. I’m about your same height/build and your analysis along with the driver facing profile shot showing the length of the bottom seat cushion in relation to your profile is outstanding! Keep up the great work!

[@igeekone]

I see the value, someone just wants a big, comfy, car without a big price tag.

[@LoveStallion]

Hard for me to see the value in this over the Jetta. This Passat feels old, even with a refresh.

[@dirkcurritzki9585]

Dealers are discounting the base model to under 20K.

[@LoveStallion]

@@dirkcurritzki9585 Sure, or I can pick up a certified Jetta SEL for less than that.

[@alanhorn8253]

Jetta does not have an independent rear suspension. That and other cost-cutting steps might matter to people who can afford either one.

[@christopherd6399]

Passat is roomier, quieter, and more comfortable.

[@jkidd7608]

Size? Looks? Newer Jetta is pretty ugly and small. The dash looks messier in the Jetta also. This looks so much cleaner.

[@jwrarmstrong]

Worth pointing out that the move from sedans to crossovers and SUV's is a North American phenomenon. In Asia ( excepting China) and Europe sedans and wagons, yes wagons, continue to be common and profitable.

[@stevee8318]

VW knows this isn't competitive with other entries in the class and discounts it accordingly. You can get a base model in the $18k range and the top trim in the mid 20s, plus 0% financing and VW's two year free maintenance program. If you want a mid-size sedan and don't need the latest and greatest, I would consider this.

[@ksorsomeplace]

Top trim in the mid 20's, what's the mid 20's range? Are talking ~$25,000 +/- or ~$27,000 +/-?

[@stevee8318]

There are a few advertised in the 26k range on autotrader in my area, and id bet you could negotiate another few hundred off at least.

[@ksorsomeplace]

@@stevee8318 I was surprised. I'd looked not too long ago. Deals are definitely better now! I just wish they a bit more power.

[@FM-pn1ir]

Have the 2019 R-Line. Offset steering wheel doesn't bother me enough to care. Otherwise, it's been a great car. Feel better about it given six year warranty and getting it for 30% below sticker (before taxes). A little concerned about future carbon build up. Style wise, it'll look decent in the next five years, opposed to Camry and Accord which with look overstyled and ugly in five years. Definitely Honda and Toyota are more reliable, for sure. Similar features would have been $7-8K more. Thats why I passed and went VW. To each his own.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Fair comment.

[@DefineScrib]

I appreciate your inclusion of the fusion (no pun intended). Many people are acting like the fusion doesn’t exist anymore since it was canceled for a redesign but its honestly in the top 5 for family sedans and certainly deserves more praise for its style, AWD, and variety of engines

[@devilsrighthandman769]

Thank you! Still a shame Ford will stop making it as a sedan. Specially considering that it is still a top 25 best seller today.

[@ralphbernard3908]

My last car was a 2014 Jetta SE with the 1.8 TSI engine. It was a great car but I wish it would have had an engine temperature gauge. Two weeks ago I bought a new 2020 Passat SE. In tribute to my dad, I chose the Platinum Grey Metallic for the exterior color. His last car was a 2006 Jetta value edition with the Platinum Grey. I like the Passat. I'm not a whistles and bells guy so the somewhat dated platform never bothered me. It is quiet, has a soft ride and is very roomy. The 2.0 TSI engine runs well and has plenty of power for my needs. I also like the 6 speed Tiptronic transmission which my 2014 Jetta also had. I like the engine temp gauge on the Passat. It also has an oil temperature readout. The steering is nice as well. I don't really mind the off center steering column, which I didn't even notice at first. The lane keeping assist took a bit of getting used to. At certain times the steering wheel wants to turn by itself without driver input, so stay alert. I like the rear view camera and the (radar controlled) cruise control. The roomy cabin is also appreciated. I am averaging around 30 mpg in all around driving. I got a great deal ($6000 below sticker) so I am happy. Never had a bad experience with Volkswagens!

[@MrAndrei4777]

Sir, you deserve a 1m subs for sure. Great and detailed quality reviews!

[@BullittHilts]

Btw, Alex, I’m loving the Jazz outro music you’ve got.

[@sprague49]

3:00 This is definitely what American customers want. Customers like Hertz, Avis, Budget, Enterprise....

[@mountainhobo]

Nothing wrong with that. It's still a big market.

[@robertduklus6555]

@@mountainhobo no its not, not now and who knows what the future holds. Welcome back, how was Mars?

[@lucisleesion8824]

Exactly same in another bigger market in the world, China

[@marcinsobczak2485]

Funny how even in Germany Passat starts with 38000 dollars with 150 hp manual petrol and higher versions are considered at least executive cars. In other EU countries its even more expensive

[@steveam29]

Have a 2020 Passat SEL, fantastic car. Value for money is great.

[@marconiki6302]

Do You still have Passat?

[@hamidmghazi]

Vw should've brought European passat and short wheelbase tiguan to North America. That's a missed opportunity imo

[@afcgeo882]

Too expensive. The prices on them would have been competing against Lexus and Audi.

[@CyAn-S]

@@afcgeo882 Honestly the fact that you find 30 grand expensive for a top trim mid sized sedan is crazy. In Europe paying 30 grand for a base model mid size sedan is normal (including VAT) and for a top spec model 40K is not strange either. Not just talking about VW here. Camry in Germany starts from 38K, Passat starts from 30K, Peugeot 508 starts from 31... No wonder that in the US the entry level/GT-line K5 feel so cheap, while on the top EX-trim at 32 K, the interior quality is finally on par with the EU Passat at the base trim. Which generally starts from 30K Euro (again including VAT). You got what you asked for in these cases. You want a lot of space for no money, you get cost cutting. that is just how it is.

[@afcgeo882]

CyAn You comment without comprehending first. Those cars are too expensive to manufacture, import and then sell at profit in the United States. The Passat would be the price of the Arteon and the Tiguan would cost more than the Allspace version. Building in Europe and paying tariffs is expensive! And yes, $38k for a Kia K5 is far too much! In N. America we live in mostly rural settings where each person has to have a car. In Europe you have one per family, if that.

[@CyAn-S]

@@afcgeo882 that is true. And ecxuse me for forgetting that. They probably didn't find it worth it to make the EU model with the same standards in Mexico for example. Also usually the second car for a family (unless both have a good lease contract or plenty of cash) in Europe is a sub-compact like a Ford Fiesta or VW Polo or even a "city" car like a Hyundai i10 or a Citroën C1.

[@ralphbernard3908]

@@afcgeo882 Most of my friends in Europe do not buy VW's. Too expensive.

[@FM-pn1ir]

This car made all the sense in the world with 6 year/72K warranty.

[@njsongwriter]

Big and comfy is not enough. Big is not essential. Comfy is. Reliable is. Serviceable is.

[@rdm925]

Even though I now drive an SUV. I loved my old Mazda 6i 5-door and I hope the sedan market slide bottoms out and stabilizes. There is still a market for the traditional sedan.

[@afcgeo882]

lol You’re the proof that sedans are done!

[@rdm925]

@@afcgeo882 Yes, It appears that way.

[@dforrest4503]

I had that same Mazda! And now have a CUV too. I really wish there were some midsize 5 door hatchbacks (Stinger is a bit pricy for me).

[@afcgeo882]

D Forrest My best friend leased a Mazda 6 and the next time got a CX-5 because you get more for the money.

[@rdm925]

@@dforrest4503 , thanks mine was an 07 Mazda 6i made in Michigan and had 166,000 trouble free miles on it. Love the ulilty and look of the 5-door over the sedan. Would have kept it a couple of years longer, but loved the CX-5 Signature with the turbo when it came out. Mazda makes good cars in my book.

[@afcgeo882]

There is a simple reason why American manufacturers have eliminated sedans, while the Japanese ones and VW haven’t. North American sedan sales are horrific and going lower. The “Big Three” sell almost solely in North America, so their sedans are a waste of resources. However, car (sedan, hatch and wagon) sales are still strong in Europe and Asia, so European and Asian manufacturers will continue to make them. As an example of this, Ford is eliminating sedans from the NA market, but continuing them in Europe. The NA Passat is also offered in South Korea.

[@stefanfalldorf6573]

Nobody buys Sedans in middle or northern Europe except in the premium class starting with C-Class, A4 and 3 series. I used to be a salesman for new VW's years ago and I sold one Jetta and three Passat CC's. The rest where hatchbacks, wagons, vans and the first gen. Tiguan.

[@afcgeo882]

Stefan Falldorf They still do in Germany, but yes, in the compact segment it’s always hatchbacks or wagons, but in the Passat/Mondeo size they still do, though far less than before.

[@stefanfalldorf6573]

@@afcgeo882 not realy. The Passat is 94% a Wagon in Germany. The midclass (Passat, Mazda 6, Ford Mondeo, Mercedes C-Class, Audi A4 etc.) there is an average of 16% sedans compared to wagons. Best sedan quote is the Mercedes C-Class with 36%. www.welt.de/motor/article125816116/Die-Limousine-stirbt-aus-und-lebt-doch-weiter.html

[@afcgeo882]

Stefan Falldorf Yet the sedan production continues as the wagons and the sedans are almost identical. Without any wagons and no sedan sales, what’s the point for American companies to make them? Right? Also, I’m guessing the take on BMW sedans is higher than 36%. www.nytimes.com/2020/03/04/automobiles/european-us-cars-automakers.amp.html

[@brianthomas2839]

I have a 2018; don't notice the offset steering wheel at all. I easily exceed 30mpg combined, and 40 on the highway. Only problem I have with it is that it's so roomy in the back I'm hesitant to hand it down to my daughter when she starts driving in a couple years. Styling may seem dated but in fairness that's subjective, and I'd argue that it's more likely to still look good 15 years from now than one of those cars they didn't bother to style and instead just looks like they duct taped a tablet computer on top of a center stack. And he's right about the discounts; I got mine for a bit over $22K when the sticker was just shy of $29K.

[@Hercegovac.1]

I have a 2017 r line , very good car 👍 I didn’t notice the offset steering as well 🤷‍♂️

[@kilpel2]

I don't understand why the large backseat would bother you handing it down to your daughter.😂

[@panzer_TZ]

13:55 I think the take rate for the V6 Camry was low because before the TRD model, you had to buy a $35,000 MSRP XLE V6 when almost every other competitor allowed you to buy the upgraded engine at around $30,000 MSRP. All of the major competitors are still offering performance engine options, so I think the market is still healthy enough. In terms of the Passat, VW is just letting it languish and getting whatever sales and profit they can get out of it until they eventually kill it.

[@digitaldoc100]

This Passat is way underpowered. Really VW, why do a 2.0T and give it less than 200 HP??? When it does not sell, it is a self fulfilling prophecy, and little wonder this car will cease production.

[@alanhorn8253]

Rumor has it that it will be around at least until it is displaced by a high volume of EV production in Tennessee.

[@digitaldoc100]

@@alanhorn8253 Will stick around for a while as this outdated tech is pure profit for VW at this point. Not sure an EV will be a replacement, but might make sense for some buyers, although not me.

[@kevs2good133]

@@alanhorn8253 2022 last year of Passats

[@devilsrighthandman769]

It may not be as good as the competition, but it still looks better than the sonata, camry and accord.

[@rightlanehog3151]

"A lot of foam going on." Alex, Did you say the Passat went from being a 'discount Audi' in 2006 to a discount VW in 2020? What is the point of all that rear seat legroom if there is nowhere practical to put your head? In the end, the inevitable conclusion is to buy a #Hybrid with better performance and nearly double the mpg.

[@cyrilmatthew2995]

The good old vr 6 engine, an awd system and an optional manual transmission... That could have been better

[@MrCarpediem6]

9:05 foam bits for sound absorption(?) .

[@silentrefusal9911]

Thank you Alex, thank you so much for mentioning the biggest issue with modern sedans which probably no other car reviewer is talking about: the head room, especially in rear seat. The country where I live in, most popular and best selling cars overall are Corolla and Civic. There is very little to choose from, 6-7 car models in total by all the brands combined. I have been planning to buy a car for more than 2 years now, but as I mentioned above, there is really not much to choose (you Americans really are living in a car buying heaven, you people just don't know it) from except Corolla and Civic and no matter how much I try to compromise with the lack of space in front and rear seat (head room more specifically) I just can't overlook the fact I won't be able to drive any of these 2 as my daily driver in a crowded area, please note that I am 6, 3" and have equally tall torso and legs. So the only buyable vehicle for my personal use besides Toyota Fortuner (which isn't much of a comfy either) is Kia Sportage. Believe me, I am really into all this "save the sedans" trend, but as I told it all in this long story, I really don't have any option until I start towards Toyota Camry (which in my country costs more that 100k USD, so u know). Hence it is the manufacturers who are actually killing the sedans, not the buyers, as in the name of "sporty styling" and "swoopy roof lines" they are really killing one of the most basic and important feature of these cars: sitting comfort in rear seats.

[@mountainhobo]

I despise off-center steering wheel.

[@angrysocialjusticewarrior]

Me too. Not sure what is up with Europeans and their obsessions with this horrid trend. Maybe Europeans have genetically disfigured spines?

[@ElroyMcDuff]

Weird, why would they do that???

[@alanhorn8253]

Fwiw, someone suggested on another forum - I have no way to verify - that the steering wheel offset was added to improve certain crash test scores to avoid the dummy finding a gap between air bags or hitting the A pillar or similar.

[@MikeStoddart]

@@rv2167 I did.

[@MikeStoddart]

@@alanhorn8253 I think I read a long time ago that it was a side effect of building the larger vehicle on the platform it used. Perhaps increasing the width of the car? If that makes sense.

[@sideskraft]

Not sure how the fit & finish is on the 2020, but my 2018 Passat feels much tighter and overall better quality than Toyota and Ford products I've driven recently. The same is evident in my 2012 Touareg.

[@denisdaly1708]

In Europe these cars are reasonably priced and provides close to 70mpg. They are reliable. SUVs are not aerodynamic have awfull MPG, and don't ride as well, being high. An SUV is irrational, though in fashion. I prefer sedans.

[@65strad]

2014 Passat bought new, 165, 734 miles. Zero squeaks or rattles. Owned 7 VW's including 2011 GTI w/DSG trans. Most reliable trouble free car Ive owned in my 67 years. Just sayin....

[@lucisleesion8824]

2.0 Turbo with 174 HP and 206 lb/ft around 3000rpm, come on VW, do your diesel TDI engines pls

[@pelicanlover69]

I purchased new a 2018 Jetta and then a 2020 Jetta R. Very happy with both cars. Wanted something bigger and heavier. Purchased a used Passat Limited with low miles used Feb 2024. Big difference in handling and feel. Heavier car. Must be safer, my Insurance went down 10%. Passat cost me more than the Jetta R.

[@stewartstarling2309]

Alex you're in a class above. I enjoy and Jason from engineering explained. You guys are the best in the business.

[@Superfastjellyfish669]

I remember about 8 years ago when I started to drive I really wanted a VR6 Passat

[@rbielarski]

Odd there is no under hood insulation pad?

[@nodak81]

Even my shitbox 2003 Kia Rio had an insulation pad. VW is just being cheap.

[@Hercegovac.1]

Great car for the money 💰

[@christopherd6399]

It's mainly a 2012 platform, but I tried the main competition and I preferred the Passat still! Plus, dealers cannot get these of their lots. I got my 2020 SE for barely over $20k. THRILLED!!

[@youngmaraschino]

29k here I hate myself

[@christopherd6399]

@@youngmaraschino aww, well it could depend on where you live, too. I'm sure dealers in metro areas are higher.

[@jeffmorse645]

A Bay Area dealer has leftover new 2020 SEL Premium Passats they're trying to clear out. $25,000 before negotiating. That's a good deal.

[@gregsullivan7408]

As a chauffeur, I need the extra long Chinese one. Unfortunately, I'm in Australia.

[@Kylehoulihan]

6 speed tiptronic automatic Transmission in the passat (from 2012- this passat) is manufactured by aisin so gonna be nice and reliable. Aisin is owned by Toyota and we know how reliable toyotas are.

[@naveenthemachine]

I will admit the Toyota 6 speed auto is geared better than the current 8 speed. But the fuel efficiency of the 8 speed does impress

[@markhesse2928]

Really loved my Euro-spec 2010 Passat wagon--first car I'd ever bought new. Only thing I didn't like was the FWD had horrible winter traction. Was going to trade it for an Arteon 2 years ago, but when they delayed the US launch I went for the new Acura RDX, which turned out to be a wonderful car.

[@bikingmoments]

I’d like to add a notorious feature of the ‘newer’ longer Passat model in China market. That Passat got the worst 25% crash score ever tested by C-IASI (similar to IIHS), with A-pillar bent by 90 degree and dummy almost killed, which is worse than many $10k models from Chinese makers! Shame on VW!

[@afcgeo882]

The 2020 New Lingyu (Passat) is different from the North American Passat. They were the same from 2012 to 2019. The new one is bigger than even the American one, but it is on the MQB platform, while the American one is on the older platform (to save money).

[@bikingmoments]

George L which makes VW even more condemned for playing with safety. A newer model earned worse crash scores...Can’t believe it.

[@ernestcassell3227]

@@bikingmoments How does the NA Passat do in the safety tests?

[@bikingmoments]

Ernest Cassell Check IIHS. This is really a funny story representing how VW only meets minimum standards. The 2013 model earned ‘Acceptable’ for driver side 25% crash; for 2016 model it was strengthened to earn ‘Good’ till today. However, for 2016 model, IIHS introduced passenger side 25% crash that year and Passat earned ‘Marginal’! This implies VW improved driver side ONLY, just like Toyota back then. Good news is that for 2020 model the passenger side has also been strengthened. Therefore I should say it’s finally a safe car, tho I’d definitely NOT recommend such a model based on VW’s response and attitude towards safety standards.

[@afcgeo882]

Ziyang Taoen To be fair, the IIHS conducts very quirky tests and then almost all manufacturers do poorly on them because they didn’t design for such specific, quirky impact tests. Very quickly they adapt and meet the standard. However... they are literally only building to pass the tests, rather than provide all-around safety, and that’s actually really bad.

[@bird718]

sadly nobody likes the way the passat looks except a few people like me

[@denisdaly1708]

And me

[@will2217]

And people like me.

[@mountainhobo]

I like Germanic look, I just don't like paying for my mechanic's vacations in the Caribbean every year.

[@chrisbrownaz]

The off-center steering wheel is a deal breaker.

[@brianthomas2839]

I own a 2018 I honestly don't even notice it and never did. It's worth a test drive to see if it bothers you.

[@Atl404sFinest]

Passat is a shell of its former self after the B6 (2006-2010) in North America. Too bad Volkswagen AG needs to save money right now and can’t give us the car we need. The Arteon is a nice car IMO, but we need a Camry and Accord fighter. It’s so ironic how Passats of the 2000s used to be the premium option and here we are in 2020 where Accords, Camrys, and even Sonatas are more premium than Passats

[@Corpsehustlerable]

I have a 2020 Passat SEL, and I adore this car. It’s my 2nd VW. I drive it 60+ miles daily and it gets upwards of 40mpg on highway. I did a few upgrades to make it a little more exciting as far as engine but I’ll keep my Passat till it literally isn’t fixable.

[@daverey8261]

What upgrades did you do?

[@Corpsehustlerable]

@@daverey8261 just little stupid stuff, cold air intake. APR coils. Nothing real expensive. That’s about it besides changing those god awful Falken tires.

[@daverey8261]

@@Corpsehustlerable Has all of that made a difference in the performance?

[@Corpsehustlerable]

@@daverey8261 anything makes a difference when the power is so low. The car has amazing potential though, my friend has the R-line and she has a stage 1 tune and has it lowered.

[@daverey8261]

@@Corpsehustlerable Ya, I don't really want to mess with it much especially due to the fact that I have an extended warrany that takes over after the manufactuer warranty ends. I have continental tires on it that gives it nice traction though. I'm going to look into what you did and see if that doesnt void my warranty though. Thank you so much!

[@VolvoMetal]

I mean, i like it. It just has this simple big elegant look, while being the perfect cheap, comfy, efficient and practical blend. Realiability concerns and the limitations of a trunk is my only problem with it. If you want more premium or sporty get the Artion or an Audi i guess.

[@afcgeo882]

Except 23mpg city isn’t economical, it isn’t very comfy (firm, unsupportive seats and little sound insulation) and it’s not exactly “cheap”. The trunk is actually GIANT, as is the interior. This is a good car for retirees in Florida. It rides like an Oldsmobile.

[@VolvoMetal]

@@afcgeo882 How many of your awd suv's do better then 23mpg? I haven't experienced the seats or insulation, but every review i've seen say it's quiet and comfy, not sure why you want to argue with me about everything, why are you even watching a car test of a car and brand you seem to hate?

[@afcgeo882]

VolvoMetal Most of them do better than 23mpg city. Rav4 gets 26, CR-V gets 28, Forester gets 26, Escape gets 27, Equinox/Terrain get 28, Rogue gets 26, Outlander gets 25mpg. Only the outdated Hyundai/Kia, Cherokee and Tiguan get 23 mpg city. In fact, I don’t believe any compact CUV gets worse gas mileage.

[@afcgeo882]

VolvoMetal I don’t hate Volkswagen. Not at all. In fact, I am in the process of buying a GTI. Every brand has bad products though and I’m not afraid to call it out when the king has no clothes. Car reviews aren’t for fanbois you know.

[@VolvoMetal]

@@afcgeo882 You must have listed of every hybrid suv there is? So they are all awd and in the same price bracket i take it? That's funny i drive a 2015 Golf wagon 1.8t awd. Used to have a gti. BUT THAT'S NOT AWD IS IT? THOUGHT YOU ALL HAD TO HAVE AWD?!?! >.< jk

[@nattga]

Said before. Saying it again. Passat will always be a car that I want but never get.

[@slendytheman]

I have a 2015 TDI SEL. Really did enjoy this but it hasn’t been updated to future sedans like the Sonata.

[@lee541982]

Actually, both the EU and US passat variants can be purchased in China, they were branded differently however.

[@clauskohler7560]

The Chinese and European version are built on the MQB platform and that is why they are more equipped like the digital cockpit that we don't get here in the US.

[@johnmitchell2741]

If you don't want a Truck or SUV you don't get it

[@sharedknowledge6640]

While it’s admirable VW can still be bothered to offer sedans, The Kia K5 absolutely crushes this sedan in most every way including some especially compelling ways like semi autonomous driving, wireless Android auto and Apple CarPlay, styling that doesn’t put you to sleep, and so much more. Anyone not drinking the VW drugged kool aid will opt for much better options than this boring dumbed down inferior attempt by VW to make a Chevy Malibu to compete on rental car lots. And, like nearly all German cars, the predicted reliability of the Passat is seriously poor against its Asian competitors. You also need to update your graphic. The Passat competes against the Kia K5 not the discontinued Optima.

[@chrisg3780]

Totally agree. What a disappointment. very Underpowered.....could have easily corrected this by putting the GTI engine in it. You could have always counted on VW to be audiesque and dare I say this used to be close to the A4. Now it is just another rental. I think Alex is losing his objectivity. This is really, really, really bad period!!!!!

[@sharedknowledge6640]

Chris G Thanks and I agree 100%. Alex seems to favor any manufacture that will keep sending him vehicles to review even if he has to make stuff up to keep them happy. He seems to especially kiss ass when it comes to Toyota or most anything German. And yeah, there was a time when a VW had the highest quality interior in it’s class by far. Now we get rental car grade VWs that are lackluster in most every way and still need frequent unscheduled dealer visits for the many things that go wrong. A friend just got his 2019 Jetta replaced after a long lemon law battle that included needing to hire a lawyer as it was spending more time at the dealer than in his own garage where it regularly left various fluids on the floor and sometimes needed a tow truck to get it out of his garage. He regrets buying it in so many ways and has sworn off German cars for life.

[@marktuyet]

Would love to have a Passat but don't trust the reliability and the local dealer .

[@raidsdamaltaportugal3925]

This Passat is so, so different from my own 2018 Passat! It seems like a generation behind. Weird. Being a Passat client for many years I cannot understand why does it differ so much from its European brother.

[@JURASSICEDITS09]

Had a 05 passat v6 fully loaded realy nice car. Cant say i like where vw has gone with the New passat would not buy a New one. Back then the audi Was the vw wich made the vw a better handling more Premium car over what you could get out of toyota or honda at the time....

[@lazziebardakos2956]

Always enjoyable watching your videos

[@leml8874]

Alex, I've got the 2016 passat with the offset steering wheel, and don't mind it at all 👍

[@silentrefusal9911]

In my opinion, the toughest competition for this American Passat is not the midsize sedans but in its own family, namely Jetta and Tiguan. You can get a Jetta GLi for almost 32k USD $ with all the bells and whistles and that car will have faster engine, better parking ability and actually a better ride and drive and the space really isn't that much of a compromise (if you are anyone taller than 6.1-6.2", u better get a Forester, RAV-4 or a VW's own Tiguan, sedans aren't for you anyway). And if you genuinely want more practicality in a smaller size and better overall modern design, just get a Tiguan with AWD. seriously, I really can't think of a single reason why and how anyone would get this passat against the competition especially considering the all new Sonata and K5. All those cars are much more modern than this, and have crazy engine options and trims to choose from and would still come better equipped with more features and specs no matter which price point u compete them with this Passat. So, to cut the long story short, this Passat deserves to go.

[@ElroyMcDuff]

At 4:04 what is that weird red plant behind you? Did you plant some of those Chinese mystery seeds? =P

[@THEFIRE360]

the euro passat looks so much better. Oh and those disgusting fake exhausts

[@flarearrow9808]

I had a 2001 Nissan Altima, and it had a similar off centered steering wheel, but it's was offset to the left..i never figured out why, but I chalked it up to being able to rest my left elbow on the window sill and be able to steer with one hand (left hand)

[@naveenthemachine]

The trunk space is wrong Alex. You put 18.7 but you said under 16 cu ft

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Oh dear.

[@TalismanPHX]

Recommend leasing or taking a comprehensive extended warranty. Parts are very expensive. Resale value of the Passat is SHOCKINGLY poor. Extremely steep depreciation. I see many as Uber vehicles, mostly due to the huge back seat and low used price.

[@brianthomas2839]

You can easily get a great deal on these though. I got a 2018 new, sticker price was just shy of $29K and I paid just over $22K.

[@zuti071]

Outro music is perfect.

[@johnsanders2266]

Considerably more attractive all round vehicles in the European versions!

[@mark_u]

The powertrain has lower power figures than the Camry 2.5 but fuel economy estimates closer to the V6 model. VW needs to replace this already.

[@LeoTheShortGuy]

Excellent

[@666chew]

I'm all in on sedans going down that "sporty" rabbit hole. Let the masses enjoy their CUVs and let there be a resurgence in sporty sedans for real drivers to appreciate. The market is there and I think, big enough, to justify such a move. Myself, I'm waiting patiently for the Acura TLX to hit the market. Again, if the masses want an appliance, let them drive their CUVs.

[@will2217]

Very interesting you did not mention the Chevy Malibu though several vehicles you stated as alternatives rank below the malibu in sales, dimensions, and features.

[@MrNightpwner]

I just want a v6 sedan and only camry makes it. Gillette grill was so perfectly described.

[@dforrest4503]

MrNightpwner Dodge Charger, but its soooooo old

[@naveenthemachine]

@@dforrest4503 true but it’s very heavy though. 4300lbs. I drove the related Chrysler 300 S w the v6 and she was a boat Btw I too love a naturally aspirated v6 sedan. I am not and never will be sold on turbo engines, even if they are from Toyota or Lexus. That’s why I chose a Camry over everyone else. If it were a used car it’d be a tougher tie between the v6 accord or v6 Camry

[@SIGINT007]

Jetta GLI seems to be a no-brainer compared to this Passat

[@ahmedbayoumi1345]

Is 2018 a good Passat? I’m willing to buy a used one this month . Any advice ?

[@ahmedbayoumi1345]

Daniel Miranda thank you for reassuring me

[@brianthomas2839]

@Daniel Miranda I'll second this. I have a 2018 SE. It's a great car. Gas mileage is easily above 30 combined and 40 on the highway. It's not the fastest or flashiest, but it's super comfortable and practical. I've joked that my only reservation about it is that it's so roomy in the back I'm hesitant to pass it on to my daughter when she starts driving in a couple years.

[@iltrmb]

Had one from a year. Horrible turbo lag from 30 to 45 mph and some vibration when engine upshift to 1200 RPM. Switched to Malibu.

[@ahmedbayoumi1345]

Greg Marsh 😳

[@ahmedbayoumi1345]

Brian Thomas thank you

[@nintendoatarikiller]

When I see faux wood, I think of that song fake plastic trees by Radiohead

[@noahsemyonov]

Could you possibly compare all the versions of the Passat’s? Like pictures of the differences

[@doylehunte9231]

Good video

[@WNYfellow]

Everything about the Passat sounds great ! So tell me: why has VW killed it off?

[@WNYfellow]

you are correct 😞@@japanwatchconnection

[@BrokenFiddles]

How do Passat's cloth seats compare to Accord's? Accord's seats seem to be very shiny. Also, do Passats still suffer from carbon buildup on their 2.0 engines?

[@barryw9473]

Does VW offer a 48 V mild hybrid or full hybrid in the EU? I rented a Jetta and was amazed I got 45 mpg on a round trip drive from Fairfield to Lake Tahoe. Could the Jetta have a mild hybrid system?

[@chuckers40]

What is the difference between the European Passat and the American version of the Passat?

[@BullittHilts]

VW should have dropped the US Passat and brought us the Euro wagon!!! Then we wouldn’t have needed to worry about the rear passenger sloping roof and we could have gotten a car with more cargo practicality that was still nice to drive! 🤦‍♂️🙁

[@stephenhendricks103]

I share the disappointment about the Passat. Obviously, VW has taken to heart the belief that Americans want larger, less expensive VW's than European consumers. And when the American version of the Passat was introduced in 2011 it seemed to be a great decision. Sales exploded from less than 13,000 in 2010 to 117,000 in 2012. But the combination of a softening market for midsize sedans and VW's almost complete neglect of the Passat since 2012 has meant sales have been on a massive slide since then. VW sold only about 14,000 Passats in 2019. If there's any good news, it's that in the first half of 2020 VW reports selling 10,101 Passats while Mazda sold only 8085 Mazda6's. If it weren't for the "6", the Passat would be the slowest selling mainstream midsize sedan in the US in the first half of 2020. VW may look at the Mazda like folks in Alabama look at Mississippi and Texans think of Oklahoma. "At least we don't live there." VW's strategy for the Passat seems to stem from a couple of points. First, they may figure that mainstream midsize sedans in the US aren't worth the effort and expense. (That's obviously what most "American" brands have concluded.) The American Passat continues to exist simply to provide dealers with a vehicle to sit in on the lot for the occasional customer who wants a midsize sedan and can't/won't pay for an Arteon. Second, VW may believe there's still a niche market for what used to be called a "family" sedan. Priced at $30K or less for even a top trim example. (Top SEL trims are offered for as little $26K in my area ). Good fuel economy, road manners and ample room for five passengers and their luggage/gear. That's obviously the mission of an SUV but it's likely to be considerably more expensive and some consumers are contrarians who hate SUV's. (Or maybe they have a more developed sense of style.) Maybe VW is correct. I suspect if dealers can move more than 20,000 Passats off their lots in the midst of a pandemic and a severe recession in 2020 they'll be celebrating the New Year with champagne rather than drowning their sorrows in scotch with their colleagues at the local Mazda dealer.

[@realbeetlejuice]

174hp from a 2.0T in 2020.... holy sh*t

[@windanthonystream]

I don't know why they only limited it to 174hp especially since they have other 2.0T that makes about 80 more hp.

[@realbeetlejuice]

@@windanthonystream 174hp, in a sedan this big.. and MPG isn't even great.... unreal. How NOT to be competitive....

[@johnmitchell2741]

No insulation under hood .my Chevy Cruze has insulation under hood

[@AlexOnBass]

The sedan is dying because they make them like this

[@stephendibari5010]

Good review but VW’s like most all German cars are empty $ pits as they pass 50k miles and 5 years old... they’ll bankrupt you faster than a C8 Corvette 0-60... I had my share of older German cars... one was a 2000 Passat V-6, 5 speed manual wagon.. was virtually worry free for nearly 4 years bought in Nov 2011 and sold it in 2016 after starting in spring of 2015 the main computer wouldn’t recognize NY DMV’s inspection software and I couldn’t get the car inspected.. That year i had the station use a different car and they hooked it up to the computer, in spring 2016 this wasn’t an option and i had to sell it... a replacement CPU would’ve cost more than the value of the car... this would never happen with a Toyota/Lexus

[@65strad]

2014 SE w/roof 1.8 EA888 with 6sp tiptronic with 137,210 miles as of this post. Bought new. Most reliable VW and car I've owned. and I'm 64. Owned Toyota. HONDA, Ford. Rear brakes lasted 110,000 miles, I use BG MOA, EPR and 44K. 44K (fuel treatment helps injectors stay clean to help minimize carbon build up. Original plugs and coils and I get 40+ mpg on highway cruise at 70 mpg. 2 trans services (fluid. pan gasket), 2 Coolant flush and fill, 3 brake fluid changes. I change cabin, engine air filter myself. Car runs great still and ispaid off. Last set of Pirelli P7's lasted 71,000 miles, even wear. My 2011 GTI was a blast, but none of my other cars have come nearly as bullet proof so far. Regular maintenance, and BG products make me a believer. To top it off, still not a squeak or rattle . I'd call it a great value for me. Not the typical band aid box on wheel tinny feel that most top Asian brands have in common. Passat safety and chassis construction is premium without the premium price tag.

[@aayonce4]

People can't afford the v6 of the cars they love that's why they are being discontinued. Like why buy a 40k accord when they can get an acura it's too much over lay . and cars need to ve cheaper about 10k accross the board

[@pbentsonable]

This car needs a miracle. Lol

[@rosemont5339]

How many cheat systems does the Passat come with standard?

[@jtomtl]

Another 2.0T VW engine, carbon buildup later down the road

[@tylongkicks8821]

That interior looks like it's from 2012-2013.

[@emmett3067]

Mid size. lol. That vehicle is huge.

[@sak1339]

Disappointing. (The car, not the review!)

[@chuckwalla2967]

If manufacturers offered bigger engines in lower trims, they would sell a lot more of them.

[@jordanbaldi2832]

VW Lavida is the EV version of the Passat in China. why cant we get that here?

[@paulstein9258]

My 1994 VW Passat V6. Expensive, Best handling, most unreliable car I ever bought. Wrote off VW forever after that,

[@Scott_From_Maine]

That front turn signal looks awfully forlorn.

[@Natethegreat200c]

I hate fake wood. My Chrysler 200 has REAL wood, fusion has real wood, and so does Mazda 6.

[@Natethegreat200c]

@SnowBoarder&Skier because the 300 sales are strong and so are the Pacifica. make two great different cars in boing segments you dont have to worry about going bankrupt.

[@MEAMERIE]

Restrained=boring lol. This car looks so plain. The only reason to get this to me is price and space.