2021 Volkswagen Passat





Total MSRP | $24,990 |
---|---|
Edmunds suggests you pay | $23,969 |
2021 Volkswagen Passat Review

- Comfortable ride
- Back seat and trunk are roomy
- Quality sound from the available Fender audio system
- Touchscreen is smaller than those in competitors
- Transmission's sluggish shifting hinders performance
- Missing some expected tech or luxury-level features
- Driver engagement is pretty dull
- SEL trim level has been dropped
- Adaptive cruise control is now standard
- Minor changes to standard equipment
- Part of the fourth Passat generation introduced for 2012
Sometimes being old is good. Like with wine, for instance, or the stuff featured on PBS' Antiques Roadshow. But for the Volkswagen Passat, age seems to be a liability. The 2021 Passat is based on the fourth-generation model that debuted nearly a decade ago. Consequently, it's slowly fading into the background of the midsize sedan class.
On the upside, the Passat still has a few solid attributes such as a smooth ride and a roomy rear seat. But rivals such as the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5 have newer technology features, fresher styling and additional engine options that the Passat lacks. So is the Passat right for you? Check out our Expert Rating below to read our full in-depth evaluation.
Performance
Another issue is braking performance. In our testing we found the Passat's panic-stopping distances to be longer than average for a midsize sedan. An uneven pedal response makes coming to a smooth stop somewhat frustrating too. The situation is a little better when the road bends. Around turns, the Passat is smooth and composed. The steering lacks feedback, but it's light and quick, making it relatively easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces.
Comfort
The dual-zone climate control works great, with powerfully cold air conditioning and vents for rear passengers. The fans can be on the loud side when cranked up, but not obnoxiously so. Otherwise the Passat is relatively quiet with just a bit of tire noise on uneven surfaces.
2021 Volkswagen Passat pricing
in Ashburn, VA


Interior
The controls aren't as well sorted. While there are dedicated physical buttons for the climate system and shortcuts to the major menus for the touchscreen, the display itself is low and partially blocked by your hand when driving. It also forces you to take your eyes off the wheel for longer than we'd prefer. That said, the system infotainment system is easy to use. The menu structure is straightforward and easy to figure out without pulling out the manual.
Technology
The driver aids work well, with the adaptive cruise maintaining a decent gap in traffic and holding speeds downhill. The blind-spot monitor works well too, but the overly sensitive parking sensors were annoying. We also had an issue with the backup camera not always turning on.
Storage
Installing a car seat is relatively easy thanks to wide door openings, a big back seat and easily accessible LATCH anchors. Even larger rear-facing seats should fit fine without sacrificing front-seat room.
Fuel Economy
Value
Volkswagen's bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties cover four years/50,000 miles. That's roughly on par with the class. You do get three years/36,000 miles of roadside assistance and two years/20,000 miles of included maintenance.
Wildcard
Which Passat does Edmunds recommend?
Volkswagen Passat models
The 2021 Volkswagen Passat is available in three trim levels; S, SE and R-Line. All come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (174 horsepower, 206 lb-ft of torque) mated to a six-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. Highlighted standard features include:
S
Starts you off with:
- LED headlights
- 17-inch wheels
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- 6.3-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Six-speaker audio system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Satellite radio
- Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Volkswagen and the car in front)
- Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
- Automatic emergency braking (warns if a front impact is imminent and applies the brakes if you don't respond in time)
SE
Adds a few features worth getting, including:
- Sunroof
- 18-inch wheels
- Power-adjustable driver's seat
- Heated front seats
- Simulated leather upholstery
- Keyless access with push-button ignition
- Remote start
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Dual-zone climate control
- Two rear passenger USB ports
- Lane keeping assist (steers the Passat back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
R-Line
Dresses up the Passat with:
- Sporty bodywork with gloss black exterior trim
- 19-inch wheels
- Paddle shifters
- Ambient lighting
- Special interior trim
- Upgraded 6.3-inch touchscreen with navigation
- Premium Fender audio system




Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Volkswagen Passat.
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
2021 Volkswagen Passat video
2018 Volkswagen Passat GT Review
NOTE: This video is about the 2018 Volkswagen Passat, but since the 2021 Volkswagen Passat is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Features & Specs
- Total MSRP
- $24,990
- MPG & Fuel
- 24 City / 36 Hwy / 28 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: 6-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 174 hp @ 5000 rpm
- Torque: 206 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 193.6 in. / Height: 58.7 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 72.6 in.
- Curb Weight: 3314 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 15.9 cu.ft.

Safety
Our experts’ favorite Passat safety features:
- Forward Collision Warning
- Warns the driver of an imminent front collision with a pedestrian or vehicle and, if necessary, applies 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 it drifts over lane markers when no turn signal has been activated.
NHTSA Overall Rating 4 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
---|---|
Overall | 3 / 5 |
Driver | 3 / 5 |
Passenger | 3 / 5 |
Side Crash Rating | Rating |
Overall | 5 / 5 |
Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
Overall | 5 / 5 |
Driver | 5 / 5 |
Passenger | 5 / 5 |
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
Back Seat | 5 / 5 |
Rollover | Rating |
Rollover | 4 / 5 |
Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
Risk Of Rollover | 10.7% |
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
Side Impact Test | Good |
---|---|
Roof Strength Test | Good |
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Volkswagen Passat vs. the competition

2021 Volkswagen Passat

2021 Honda Accord
Volkswagen Passat vs. Honda Accord
The Accord stands out because of its excellent build quality, spacious interior and pleasing performance. It's also a solid value; base versions offer the same high level of refinement as more expensive Accords. The Passat is competitive on interior space and comfort but otherwise comes up short.
Volkswagen Passat vs. Nissan Altima
Nissan's revitalized Altima offers an excellent array of advanced driver aids as well as strong fuel economy and a roomy interior. It can also be equipped with all-wheel drive, which isn't available on the Passat. Like the Passat, however, the Altima leaves a little to be desired when it comes to the driving experience and interior quality.
Volkswagen Passat vs. Mazda 6
With its luxurious style, the Mazda 6 makes the rest of the segment look a bit dull. It's also genuinely fun to drive, even if you don't opt for its more powerful turbocharged engine. A fully loaded Passat will undercut the Mazda on price, but the Mazda offers higher quality materials as well as more technology features.
FAQ
Is the Volkswagen Passat a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Volkswagen Passat?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Volkswagen Passat:
- SEL trim level has been dropped
- Adaptive cruise control is now standard
- Minor changes to standard equipment
- Part of the fourth Passat generation introduced for 2012
Is the Volkswagen Passat reliable?
Is the 2021 Volkswagen Passat a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Volkswagen Passat?
The least-expensive 2021 Volkswagen Passat is the 2021 Volkswagen Passat S 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $23,995.
Other versions include:
- S 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $23,995
- SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $26,995
- R-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $29,995
What are the different models of Volkswagen Passat?
2021 Volkswagen Passat Overview
The 2021 Volkswagen Passat is offered in the following submodels: Passat Sedan. Available styles include S 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A), R-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A), and SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A). Volkswagen Passat models are available with a 2.0 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 174 hp, depending on engine type. The 2021 Volkswagen Passat comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic. The 2021 Volkswagen Passat comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What do people think of the 2021 Volkswagen Passat?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 Volkswagen Passat and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2021 Passat 5.0 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 Passat.
Pros
- Comfortable ride
- Back seat and trunk are roomy
- Quality sound from the available Fender audio system
- Touchscreen is smaller than those in competitors
Cons
- Transmission's sluggish shifting hinders performance
- Missing some expected tech or luxury-level features
- Driver engagement is pretty dull
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Volkswagen Passat and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 Passat featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 Volkswagen Passat?
2021 Volkswagen Passat S 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2021 Volkswagen Passat S 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $24,990. The average price paid for a new 2021 Volkswagen Passat S 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $1,021 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,021 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $23,969.
The average savings for the 2021 Volkswagen Passat S 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 4.1% below the MSRP.
2021 Volkswagen Passat SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2021 Volkswagen Passat SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $27,990. The average price paid for a new 2021 Volkswagen Passat SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $811 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $811 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $27,179.
The average savings for the 2021 Volkswagen Passat SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 2.9% below the MSRP.
2021 Volkswagen Passat R-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2021 Volkswagen Passat R-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $30,990. The average price paid for a new 2021 Volkswagen Passat R-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $1,276 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,276 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $29,714.
The average savings for the 2021 Volkswagen Passat R-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 4.1% below the MSRP.
Which 2021 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) 2021 Volkswagen Passat for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap 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 2021 Volkswagen Passat.
Can't find a new 2021 Volkswagen Passats you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Volkswagen for sale.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
What is the MPG of a 2021 Volkswagen Passat?
2021 Volkswagen Passat S 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 6-speed shiftable automatic, regular unleaded
28 MPG compined MPG,
24 city MPG/36 highway MPG
2021 Volkswagen Passat R-Line 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 6-speed shiftable automatic, regular unleaded
28 MPG compined MPG,
24 city MPG/36 highway MPG
2021 Volkswagen Passat SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 6-speed shiftable automatic, regular unleaded
28 MPG compined MPG,
24 city MPG/36 highway MPG
EPA Est. MPG | 28 |
Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Drive Train | front wheel drive |
Displacement | 2.0 L |
Passenger Volume | 117.9 cu.ft. |
Wheelbase | 110.4 in. |
Length | 193.6 in. |
Width | N/A |
Height | 58.7 in. |
Curb Weight | 3314 lbs. |
Should I lease or buy a 2021 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
Related 2021 Volkswagen Passat info
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used Ford Explorer 1994
- Used Kia Sportage 2009 For Sale
- Used Toyota Yaris 2016
- Used Land Rover Discovery Sport 2017
- Used Mazda Mazdaspeed 6 2006
- Used Dodge Grand Caravan 2004
- Used Volkswagen Golf SportWagen 2015
- Used GMC Yukon XL 2009
- Used Volvo XC90 2012
- Used Lexus LS 500H 2008
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- 2021 Jetta GLI
- 2021 Ford Edge
- 2022 Rogue Sport
- 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan
- 2022 Acura MDX
- 2021 Chrysler Pacifica
- 2023 Honda Pilot News
- 2022 Lincoln Aviator
- 2022 Acura NSX
- 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe
Vehicle rankings by type
- Best SUVs
- Best Electric Cars
- Best Hybrids
- Best Sedans
- Best Crossovers
- Best Trucks
- Best Compact Vehicles
- Best Minivans
Other models to consider
- 2022 Volkswagen Atlas
- 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan
- 2022 Volkswagen ID.4
- Volkswagen Golf GTI 2022
- 2022 Jetta
- 2022 Volkswagen Taos
- Volkswagen Golf 2021
- 2021 Atlas
- 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI
- 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Research Similar Vehicles
- 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- Hyundai Sonata 2022
- Lexus IS 350 2022
- 2022 Versa
- 2022 Ghibli
- 2022 Charger
- 2022 Acura TLX
- 2022 BMW 3 Series
- Dodge Charger 2022
- 2022 Honda Insight
Hot new vehicles
More photos
Automotive News
- Mazda News Articles, Reviews, and Insights
- Toyota News Articles, Reviews, and Insights
- Jeep News Articles, Reviews, and Insights
- Lincoln News Articles, Reviews, and Insights
- Chrysler News Articles, Reviews, and Insights
- Audi News Articles, Reviews, and Insights
- Honda News Articles, Reviews, and Insights
- Porsche News Articles, Reviews, and Insights
- Tesla News Articles, Reviews, and Insights
- Lexus News Articles, Reviews, and Insights
Recommended
- Used Lexus Is 250 Miami Beach FL
- Toyota Camry Hybrid 2014 Pictures
- Mercedes Benz G Class 2009 Pictures Interior
- Porsche 911 2015 Review
- Used Lincoln Navigator Palm Beach Gardens FL
Other models
- New Jaguar I-Pace for Sale in Ogden, UT
- New Chevrolet Trailblazer for Sale in Logan, UT
- New Honda Passport for Sale in Norman, OK
- New BMW X4-M for Sale in Santa Barbara, CA
- New BMW Ix for Sale in Orem, UT
- New GMC Sierra-3500Hd for Sale in Elk Grove, CA
- New GMC Yukon-Xl for Sale in Rosemead, CA
- New Kia Rio for Sale in Waterbury, CT
- New Jeep Compass for Sale in Mount Prospect, IL
- New Porsche 718-Boxster for Sale in Kalamazoo, MI
- New Alfa-Romeo Stelvio for Sale in Indio, CA
- New Cadillac XT4 for Sale in Chapel Hill, NC
- New Audi SQ5 for Sale in New Britain, CT
- New Hyundai Sonata for Sale in Lawrence, MA
- New Chevrolet Equinox for Sale in Peabody, MA
- New Infiniti QX80 for Sale in San Antonio, TX
- New BMW Ix for Sale in Decatur, IL
- New BMW 5-Series for Sale in West Haven, CT
- New Ford Maverick for Sale in New Bedford, MA
- New Hyundai Accent for Sale in San Rafael, CA
- New BMW I4 for Sale in Ocala, FL
- New Subaru Ascent for Sale in Joplin, MO
- New Volvo Xc40-Recharge for Sale in Saint Peters, MO
- New BMW X6 for Sale in Chico, CA
- Used Aston-Martin DBX in Westminster, CO
- New Lincoln Nautilus for Sale in Blue Springs, MO
- New Infiniti QX55 for Sale in Summerville, SC
- New Chevrolet Express-Cargo for Sale in Mckinney, TX
- New Lexus Es-250 for Sale in Biloxi, MS
- Used Hyundai Santa-Cruz in Saint Charles, MO