2019 Volkswagen Passat Review
2019 Volkswagen Passat Review





+74
Used Passat for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Edmunds' Expert Review

byDan Frio
Reviews Editor
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
Pros
- Turbo four-cylinder engine accelerates quickly and eagerly
- Ride quality is quiet, cushy and comfortable
- Back seat and trunk are roomy
- Long warranty coverage is among the best in class
Cons
- Touchscreens are smaller than those with competitors' systems
- Transmission's sluggish shifting hinders performance
- Driving engagement is pretty dull
What's new
- Streamlined to just two trim levels: Wolfsburg Edition and SE R-Line
- More driver assistance features come standard on base trim
- Part of the fourth Passat generation introduced for 2012
Evolution and innovation are priorities for automakers trying to keep pace with changing consumer tastes. But occasionally a model remains popular without continual updates and design changes. The 2019 Volkswagen Passat embodies the "if it isn't broke" ethos, soldiering on with the same look since the current generation debuted eight years ago. Most rival sedans have undergone the knife during that span, but the Passat's successful formula is a testament to its timeless style and practical personality.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2019 Volkswagen Passat Wolfsburg Edition 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.32 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$139/mo
Passat Wolfsburg Edition
vs
$175/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Changes are on the horizon for the Passat, however, with a full redesign likely for next year's model. Unsurprisingly, changes for 2019 are few. The lineup is streamlined to just two trim levels, and more modern driver aids filter down to the base model. Eliminating multiple trim levels — last year's model offered six — means less flexibility for a buyer's budget, but the choice is easier: Do you prefer base trim or fully featured?
What hasn't changed are the ingredients of the Passat's successful formula: a roomy cabin, large and useful trunk, quiet ride, and easy-to-drive nature. The Passat isn't the go-to sedan if you're seeking flash, flair or a hint of speedy thrills. But it makes an excellent family shuttle, a car for around-town driving with friends or colleagues and a long-distance vehicle for road tripping in quiet comfort.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
7.0 / 10Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Volkswagen Passat R-Line (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | 6-speed automatic | FWD).
Scorecard
Overall | 7.0 / 10 |
Driving | 6.0 |
Comfort | 6.5 |
Interior | 8.0 |
Utility | 8.5 |
Technology | 7.0 |
Driving
6.0With the exception of the well-tuned steering, the Passat's performance is a bit of a disappointment in the current midsize sedan class. It's slower than previous generations of the nameplate, it has subpar braking performance, and it fumbles away the smooth, effortless drivability it used to have in spades.
Acceleration
6.0At part throttle, the Passat moves away smoothly and effortlessly, but even moderate acceleration reveals an uneven power delivery with oddly unsmooth shifting from the automatic transmission. It takes 8.5 seconds to accelerate to 60 mph, slower than most midsize sedans in the class.
Braking
6.0Our test Passat has the same sort of long, spongy brake pedal we've experienced in other VWs before. It's not offensive during light applications on the highway, but it's irritating in more purposeful practice. Emergency braking distances were longer than we typically see in this class.
Steering
8.0The steering feels direct but not overly sensitive. It's just enough to feel taut, connected and accurate for such a large sedan, and the power assist is well-weighted. It definitely gives the driver confidence.
Handling
6.5The handling capabilities may be good, but the driver will never know because there's no provision to shut off or reduce the rather conservative stability control system. While tight, twisty roads aren't its forte, the Passat is absolutely at home on higher-speed, smooth roads with gentle bends.
Drivability
6.0If driven with a light foot, either in the city or on the open highway, the Passat delivers the kind of relaxed and effortless drive we'd expect. But when rushed, even slightly, it reveals a disappointing lack of power alongside strange shifting characteristics.
Comfort
6.5The Volkswagen Passat shines in this category, especially when long-distance driving is considered. It's a quiet cruiser. If you head out on lots of road trips, especially with a full load of friends, the Passat is a great choice. Just be sure to steer clear of the R-Line and its ride-ruining wheel and tire package.
Seat comfort
7.0Firm, supportive front seats further the Passat's claim as one of the best long-distance cruisers in the segment. There's a ton of rear-seat room, but the rear backrest is more upright than an Accord or a Camry, which some may find less comfortable.
Ride comfort
5.5The Passat is a car that usually favors comfort over agility. But when equipped with the sportier R-Line package, its ride comfort suffers on anything not perfectly smooth. The 19-inch wheels and tires crash over imperfections and create a busy and unsettled experience.
Noise & vibration
7.5With its well-isolated turbocharged engine, there tends to be less noise emanating from its engine bay, even under full throttle and when chugging up hills. Wind noise was a nonissue, but the R-Line's 19-inch tires were the source of some road noise.
Climate control
7.5Volkswagen knows how to make an easy-to-use climate control system, and the Passat's is no exception. The controls are simple and clear, and the coverage from the vents is good. Rear passengers have their own vents but no climate controls.
Interior
8.0The Passat is big but easy to see out of and not especially complicated to use. Really, this German sedan is one of the most old-school American cars on the road. Essentially, it's a full-size sedan for a midsize price.
Ease of use
7.0The interior is not cluttered with buttons, and basic controls are easily found and deciphered. However, the touchscreen that's found on Wolfsburg models is on the small side and is placed a bit too low. Same goes for the otherwise simple climate controls.
Getting in/getting out
8.0The big, light doors and good-size openings facilitate entry and exit. The more formal roofline makes the rear seat easier to access than competitors that have sleeker, lower rooflines (Mazda 6, Ford Fusion).
Driving position
6.0The driver's seat adjusts eight ways but lacks the seat-cushion tilt that provides extra under-thigh support. Taller folks and long-legged drivers may wish for more steering-wheel telescoping range so they can avoid driving with their arms straight out.
Roominess
8.0The Passat looks, feels and is enormous. The large, airy cabin has tons of head- and legroom all around. Rear passengers won't feel claustrophobic.
Visibility
8.5Big windows, thin-ish roof pillars and a squared-off roofline make it easier to see out. Seeing while in reverse may be difficult due to the long rear deck, but the standard rearview camera will help with that.
Quality
7.5The Passat no longer boasts the standout, best-in-class interior quality of past VWs. Some materials are pleasing to touch and the switchgear is excellent, but there's a lot of hard plastic that cheapens the look and feel of the interior.
Utility
8.5The usable space in a Passat's trunk is impressive. Never mind the numbers, it feels class-leading. Small-item storage is unremarkable and bettered by other midsize competitors, but there's still enough storage for most.
Small-item storage
7.0A covered bin under the center stack holds a USB port and is big enough for even jumbo smartphones. The cupholders are of average size, and the center console bin is a bit small.
Cargo space
8.5Yes, its 15.9-cubic-foot measurement is about average for the segment, but in practice the exceptionally deep and wide trunk is still one of the better executions in terms of usable space. All four adults in the cabin can each bring along a rather sizable suitcase.
Child safety seat accommodation
9.0The Passat has two sets of LATCH anchors in the outboard back seats that are easy to use. There are three tether anchors on the parcel shelf. Rear-facing car seats fit easily and the front passenger's seat doesn't need to be moved forward to accommodate one.
Technology
7.0The Passat's technology is acceptable, both in terms of its features and the controls for them. With infotainment and driver's aids, the offerings are fairly standard for the segment. The Passat does not distinguish itself here.
Audio & navigation
7.0The 6.3-inch touchscreen is a bit on the small side and is positioned a tad too low. Functionality is just OK. It doesn't confuse or frustrate, but others are better. Navigation was not included on our test car, but it is available via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Smartphone integration
7.5VW Car-Net is standard, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. They work as they do in most other brands. An auxiliary jack and Bluetooth are included should you choose not to use Apple or Android connectivity.
Driver aids
7.5The adaptive cruise control system maintains a natural distance and brakes and accelerates in a sensible manner.
Which Passat does Edmunds recommend?
With just two trim levels to choose from, your choice comes down to how many premium features you want. We suggest the Wolfsburg Edition. It covers the key bases with 17-inch alloy wheels, simulated-leather upholstery, heated front seats and a 6.3-inch touchscreen interface, among other features.
2019 Volkswagen Passat models
The 2019 Volkswagen Passat comes in two trim levels: Wolfsburg Edition and SE R-Line. Both are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (174 horsepower, 184 pound-feet of torque) and a six-speed automatic transmission.
Standard features on the Wolfsburg Edition include 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, heated side mirrors, a rearview camera, keyless ignition and entry, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, 60/40-split folding rear seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth, VW's Car-Net smartphone integration (includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink), a 6.3-inch touchscreen, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, one USB port and an auxiliary audio jack.
Enhanced driver aids include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, while options include a sunroof and 18-inch wheels.
The SE R-Line adds 19-inch alloy wheels, unique R-Line styling elements, LED headlights and taillights, a sunroof, remote start, a hands-free opening trunk, rain-sensing wipers, transmission shift paddles, ambient cabin lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, a navigation system, a premium Fender audio system, and an upgraded version of Car-Net with enhanced security and navigation features.
The SE R-Line also comes with additional driver aids, including active blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and front and rear parking sensors.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2019 Volkswagen Passat.
5 star(45%)
4 star(22%)
3 star(10%)
2 star(10%)
1 star(13%)
55 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
2018 Passat SE w/Technology package
Dan Nigro, 05/16/2018
2018 Volkswagen Passat SE w/Technology 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
UPDATE: 05/18/2021 - 19501 miles. mpg City is 27.9
UPDATE :11/18/2020 - 15,876 miles. mpg City is 27.5 overall.
UPDATE: 05/18/2020 - 12,436 miles and my City MPG is 27.1 overall, Highway is 35.8. Still enjoy my Paasat very much
UPDATE: 05/17/2019 - Still like this PASSAT very much. MPG increased with summer blend gasoline. For my driving needs, I wouldn't change any of my 5 star … ratings. And with the 6 year / 72 mo. TRANSFERRABLE Warranty, it's a WINNER.
UPDATE: 11/17/2018 - Gas MPG dropped because of winter grade Gasoline. Regarding my ratings, I would not change a thing. Still a 5 Star vehicle to me.
UPDATE: 11/17/2019 - I do mostly CITY driving, little Highway driving. As of today, 18 months, overall MPG is 26.6. Still a 5 Star rating.
I only have 614 miles on my Passat SE w/Tech so far. 1st tankful got 27.1 mpg city. Haven't taken highway trip yet. I owned a 2004 JETTA TDI for 3 years w/6 speed manual transmission. Averaged 38 mpg/Diesel city & 54 mpg/highway. Handled extremely well taking curves, shifting gears. VW German engineering hasn't changed. The past 6 years, I leased a BMW 328iX, then a 2016 Ford Fusion Titanium. When it came time to research & test drive other vehicles, Hyundai Sonata, Subaru Legacy, Honda Accord, I then turned to VW because of VW's 6 year/72,000 mile (transferable) warranty. After test driving the Passat SE w/tech, there was no doubt and I purchased the Passat. The Dealer I chose was after dealing with 3 VW Dealerships. I purchased from my 4th VW dealership because of their many 5 star Customer YELP ratings, and having purchased New & pre-owned vehicles the past 57 years, I had the most pleasant transaction with this 4th VW Dealer, also gave them a 5 Star YELP rating, in addition to the other 3 VW Dealers couldn't beat their price. I enjoy driving my 2018 Passat, and being retired, the 614 miles are all pleasure driving. I can't say anything negative about this Sedan.
5 out of 5 stars
VW Passat for a Golfer
Jerry Geyer, 01/17/2018
2018 Volkswagen Passat SE w/Technology 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
One of the things about the 2018 VW Passat that sold me on the car was the size and space of the rear trunk. The trunk space on the Passat is 15.9 cu. ft. I was going to to buy a Cadillac ATS or a Mercedes C330 however on both cars I could barely get 2 sets of golf clubs in the trunk. Even though they did fit there was no room for anything else. I was able to easily put 2 sets of golf … clubs in the trunk of the Passat and still have ample room for a couple of overnight suitcases, golf shoes and a few other things. I know not everyone is a golfer, but this just illustrates the roominess of the trunk. With the size of the trunk you would think that the size of the interior would be compromised and smaller. This is definitely not true. The interior, especially the rear seats, are very comfortable for adults. The icing on the cake is the exterior appearance of the car. It is very sharp and contemporary. My 16 year old granddaughter summed it up when she said it didn't look like an "old persons car".
4 out of 5 stars
Great family car that won’t break the bank
Paul, 08/17/2019
2019 Volkswagen Passat Wolfsburg Edition 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
No, it’s not a BMW, Audi, or Porsche (although some reviewers think it should be though). The Passat is comfortable, easy (and sometimes fun) to drive, reliable, and affordable (compared to the Japanese competition).
Positives: It has plenty of rear seat leg room and a spacious trunk (way more than my 2010 Honda Accord had). Controls are accessible and easy to use. The display screen … is I guess smaller than others but I really don’t want a 15” laptop screen sitting on my dashboard so it works for me. The seating is very comfortable and supportive. Steering is responsive and the car is very maneuverable. In sport mode or manual tiptronic mode, the car can perform well off the starting line and accelerates smoothly. The warranty is also excellent.
Road noise is a bit pronounced on highways but surface quality has a lot to do with that (I also suspect a change in tires will fix this when I’m ready for a new set). The transmission is a bit jerky at slow stop and go speeds due to the gas-saving 6 speed transmission. I have also experienced strange issues with Apple CarPlay but using an actual Apple USB cable fixed that.
All said, I’m happy with my Passat and look forward to driving it as our family car for years to come.
4 out of 5 stars
Good Car - Good Price Updated Dec 2020 - Keeper!
JBROOKSWS, 12/29/2019
2018 Volkswagen Passat V6 GT 4dr Sedan (3.6L 6cyl 6AM)
Moved from Jetta to Passat to have a larger car - checked out a number of alternatives - Accord, Camry, A4, Fusion, S60 - decided that for the negotiated price this worked well.
Limited edition - only made in 2018. Sticker about $32K - sale price about $24.5K.
Cons - Small infotainment screen - gauge cluster screen black and white with lower quality graphics. Gas mileage equals … the sticker - averaging about 31 mpg highway and about 23 city - though uses REGULAR fuel!). A/C is adequate in the South but not an overpowering system (fan speed wise). Nice heated seats.
Pros - comfortable - roomy - leatherette easy to clean. Finishes are nice (VW gets dinged for low budget finishes, but this car is finished comparably to others listed above except Audi and Volvo. Very bright LED headlights - good brakes - firmer handling than regular Passat. Strong acceleration from normally aspirated 3.6l engine. Heated seats work well - defroster(s) work quickly.
Be careful in Sport mode - really needs all wheel drive with so much power going to front wheels. Hold the wheel tight and moderate your gas pedal - either from standing start or when overtaking.
Huge trunk - lots of room to put everything. Nice center storage bin. Have put 30,000+ miles on car in two years with no issues at all so very confident in car going forward. Appreciate 6 year / 72K mile warranty. Would buy this car again but I actually think this one is a keeper long term!
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2019 Volkswagen Passat, so we've included reviews for other years of the Passat since its last redesign.
2019 Passat Highlights
Wolfsburg Edition
- Combined MPG
- 29 MPG
- Cost to Drive
- $139/month
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- front wheel drive
- Engine Type
- Gas
- Warranty
- 6 years / 72,000 miles
Safety
Our experts like the Passat models:
- Forward Collision Warning
- Warns the driver if a front collision with a pedestrian or vehicle seems imminent. If necessary, can apply automatic emergency braking.
- Blind-Spot Monitor
- Uses rear radar sensors to warn the driver of vehicles in adjacent lanes. Also illuminates an icon on the side mirror when a vehicle enters the blind spot.
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Applies countersteering to nudge the vehicle back into its lane if the car drifts over lane markers without accompanying turn signal activation.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover10.7%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Side Impact TestGood
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestGood
People who viewed this also viewed
5.0 average Rating out of 1 reviews. |
Starting at $20,415 |
See Inventory |
3.6 average Rating out of 17 reviews. |
Starting at $24,475 |
See Inventory |
4.6 average Rating out of 5 reviews. |
Starting at $23,195 |
See Inventory |
More about the 2019 Volkswagen Passat
Used 2019 Volkswagen Passat Overview
The Used 2019 Volkswagen Passat is offered in the following submodels: Passat Sedan. Available styles include Wolfsburg Edition 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A), and SE R-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A). The Used 2019 Volkswagen Passat comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.
What's a good price on a Used 2019 Volkswagen Passat?
Price comparisons for Used 2019 Volkswagen Passat trim styles:
- The Used 2019 Volkswagen Passat Wolfsburg Edition is priced between $19,750 and$23,990 with odometer readings between 16191 and62708 miles.
- The Used 2019 Volkswagen Passat SE R-Line is priced between $22,589 and$23,799 with odometer readings between 33325 and44924 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2019 Volkswagen Passats are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2019 Volkswagen Passat for sale near. There are currently 16 used and CPO 2019 Passats listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $19,750 and mileage as low as 16191 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2019 Volkswagen Passat.
Can't find a used 2019 Volkswagen Passats you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a used Volkswagen Passat for sale.
Find a used Volkswagen for sale.
Find a used certified pre-owned Volkswagen Passat for sale.
Find a used certified pre-owned Volkswagen for sale.
Should I lease or buy a 2019 Volkswagen Passat?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Volkswagen lease specials
Check out Volkswagen Passat lease specials
Related Used 2019 Volkswagen Passat info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Lexus Es 300H 2021 Review
- Lexus Es 350 2020 Review
- Lexus Es 350 2021 Review
- Lexus GS 350 2020 Review
- Lexus GS F 2020 Review
Shop similar models
- Chevrolet Cruze-limited 2016
- Toyota Yaris-ia 2018
- Nissan Sentra 2023
- Toyota Corolla 2023
- Toyota Yaris 2020
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used Chevrolet Colorado 2001
- Used Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class 2001
- Used Audi Q7 2013
- Used Toyota MR2 Spyder 2001
- Used Mazda B-Series Truck 1994
- Used Jaguar XJ 1997
- Used Chevrolet Colorado 2008
- Used Audi TT 2003
- Used Ford Crown Victoria 2009
- Used BMW 6 Series 2010
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- 2023 Sonata
- 2022 Ford F-150
- 2022 X3
- Jeep Wrangler 2022
- 2022 Hyundai Kona
- 2024 Hyundai Kona News
- 2022 Transit Cargo Van
- 2022 Mazda 3
- Ford Escape 2023
- 2024 BMW M4 News
Research recent models from same make
- 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan
- Arteon
- 2022 Volkswagen ID.4
- 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI
- 2022 Jetta
- Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport 2022
- 2022 Volkswagen ID.4
- 2023 Jetta GLI
- 2023 Golf R
- 2022 Volkswagen Arteon
Research similar vehicles
- New BMW 7 Series
- Volvo S60 T5
- BMW I4
- BMW 5 Series
- 2022 Giulia
- 2023 Elantra
- 2022 Charger
- Audi E Tron GT
- 2022 Challenger
- 2023 7 Series