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Volkswagen Passat Saloon (2000-2005) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 4 out of 54.0

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

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

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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 21 - 50 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

Volkswagen prices have fallen into line with the competition, so Passats aren’t so expensive in the first place. If you wisely choose a diesel you’ll find day-to-day costs are more than agreeable.

Passat scores quite well on the eco front. With an average of 198 g/km CO2 across the model line-up, its emissions are fairly standard for a medium-sized saloon. However, it’s worth noting that the line up has a high number of diesel models, bringing the average down and giving buyers more choices of low-emission versions. Diesels typically produce less CO2 than petrol engines with similar power outputs.

The range is not particularly economical, averaging 38 mpg.

The build quality of Volkswagens is hard to beat in this sector – it’s first class and won’t let you down. Similarly the engine and mechanicals are well constructed and covered by a three-year warranty.