Volkswagen Passat Estate (2000 - 2005) 1.9 Sport TDI 4MOTION 5d (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Who cares?

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Who cares?

Would you buy this car again and why?

Maybe. Sport version seems to have slightly lower suspension than S, SE or others. In a 4motion model this is useless as it has no ground clearance offroad. makes for good handling on tarmac roads though. Also the engine is great and on longer runs reaches almost 50mpg. Generally booting it around country lanes I get 44mpg and towing a large boat I get 31mpg. I'm considering changing the suspension to 1BB code to get better ground clearance. VW dealers don't seem to understand the many common faults on all their cars or how to rectify them. I have had to spend a while fiddling around re-soldering circuit boards and silicon sealing leaks which is way beyond normal car maintenance and servicing. Had the same problems on 2 passats and a golf too so not just an odd one out.

What are you likely to buy next?

Possibly change the suspension or change to an audi allroad although these seem far less economical and troublesome with air suspension.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,000

When did you buy the car?

July 2009

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, it was low mileage at the time and in showroom condition with full VW service history.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

4x4 - mainly for towing a boat trailer off slimy slipways Estate - for lugging around lots of dive gear Galvanised - resist saltwater.

What was the dealer like?

Strange. Got a bit upset when I tried to haggle slightly as it needed a service and tax.

What's it like to drive?

Ok. Traction control a bit over sensitive at times. Would be tempted to have it re-mapped as 4motion saps the power and drinks more fuel. Re-mapped to 170bhp they seem a lot better.

What's it like to park?

Fine

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes. Central Locking - control module in drivers door panel has poorly soldered circuit board. Water ingress from pollen filter area into passenger side footwells. Driveshafts and CV joints have a tendancy to tear apart at low speed tight manouveres.

What's most practical about your car?

4x4 is great. Traction control is not needed. Good interior legroom and headroom. Will carry 4 tall adults in comfort, plus luggage and even mountain bikes.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Heated Seats.