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Volkswagen Passat Estate (2005-2011) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 4.5 out of 54.5

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 28 - 64 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Although the Passat is no cheaper than its mainstream alternatives to buy new, its future residual values will be class leading and closer to cars like the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4 than the Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia. It means the Passat will be a sound investment. About 80% of Passats sold will be diesel-powered. They will hold their value better, despite used petrol models being harder to find.

The Passat scores quite well on the eco front and with an average of 167g/km CO2 across the line-up, its emissions are fairly low for a family estate. The best model for the eco-conscious is the 1.9 TDI Bluemotion which emits 136g/km of CO2 and returns 55mpg. This was replaced in late 2008 by the Bluemotion 2 – this uses a smoother and quieter 2.0 TDI common rail engine with 110bhp.

Thanks to longer gearing, aerodynamic tweaks and a Stop/Start function it is capable of 58mpg and emits 129g/km of CO2.

The engines used in the Passat range are in use in other Volkswagen cars and should be reliable. A greater reliance on electronics in the latest Passat means that it is more important than ever to ensure the car is serviced according to schedule for best reliability.