VW Passat Estate 1997-

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  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    High miler ex-service engineers car so got a good deal

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Service costs = £250/20k & £250 Cambelt (VW dealer)

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    A good mile muncher, but can be a little see-sawing (not evident on the Saloon)

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    The most torquey car i've had (incl. BMW 318)

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Never broken down although the battery died recently, but it was 6 years old so that was quite an expensive replacment at £80.

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Bigger than the A4 and without the stupid premium, but once your are into VW (and you don't get a lemon) you'll probably stay. Cool (thanks to Climate), and sophisticated load-lugger - great for families.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    With the amount of adjustment you'd be hard to find something that doesn't suit. Seats could be firmer though - personal preference.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Deadlocks only opens drivers door on 1st blip rest on 2nd blip.

    Service

    5 out of 5 5.0

    VW Agents (Gilders) serviced, washed and were very courteous. Recommended

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Sweet and punchy, but a little breathless above 4000revs, but couldn't we all do with more power. 51MPG over the last 10k miles (mixed driving).

    Other

    Only one problem - the battery needed renewing at 6 years old and is the most expensive type for a car (only to be expected for a large Diesel).

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes