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Volkswagen Passat Saloon (1988-1997) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3 out of 53.0

Written by Parkers 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 25 - 52 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

VW parts and servicing are expensive, although specialist independent network can reduce these costs considerably. VR6 is thirsty, turbo diesel is ultra frugal. Residual values are generally firm.

Reliability is never an issue with a well-maintained example. Is capable of exceptional longevity – 250,000 miles or more is not uncommon especially with diesel models. As ever this is no reason to scrimp on servicing.