2020 Volkswagen Passat Road Test Report - Consumer Reports

2020 Used 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 Volkswagen Passat EPA MPG: 27 mpg Owner Reported MPG: EPA MPG: 27 mpg Owner Reported MPG: RECALL ALERT: There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More. There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More. RECALL ALERT: There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More. There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More. Shift your car buying experience See how your top choices measure up on the features that matter most to you. Become a Member Sign In

Volkswagen Passat Road Test

Introduction

The 2020 Passat looks a lot like the model it’s replacing, but a minor update helps the midsized sedan keep pace with the competition in terms of advanced safety features and infotainment. Although it may appeal to buyers who want a traditional-looking sedan with lots of interior space, the Passat is showing its age against newer competitors—which is apparent once you drive it.

The Passat certainly has its positives. For example, the seats are comfortable, there’s limousine-like spaciousness in the rear, the trunk is massive, and the car is very easy to get in and out of. Climate and other important controls are super easy to use, and the straightforward infotainment system is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Those qualities alone make it quite a practical sedan. But unlike the rest of the Volkswagen line, the Passat is still based on an older, less sophisticated platform, and it trails the competition in some key areas.

The 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder delivers sufficient power. Unfortunately, initial acceleration from a stop can feel a bit abrupt. We measured fuel economy of 28 mpg overall, which is worse than many of its competitors. And the Passat’s optional adaptive cruise control is not capable of keeping up with stop-and-go traffic.

The Passat’s ride has an underlying firmness but absorbs bumps decently. Handling is a bit dull in corners, but the car feels more responsive on wider, sweeping bends. When pushed to its limits, however, the Passat’s rear wheels tended to lose traction. Electronic stability control eventually stepped in to reign in the tail, but that kind of momentary upset could be startling for inexperienced drivers.

Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic warning are all standard.

Summary

Best Version to Get

We would opt for the SE since it brings a dual-zone automatic climate control and adaptive cruise control (ACC). Note though, that the ACC is not designed for stop and go traffic.

Volkswagen Passat Road Test

Introduction Summary Best Version to Get Next: Back Change Vehicle ×

Oops! You no longer have digital access to ratings and reviews.

Reactivate now to get the information you were looking for!

You will get digital access to reviews and ratings for over 8,500 products and services to help you make better choices for life’s big moments and the everyday ones in between.

If you feel you have received this message in error, please view our customer care FAQs or access your account information here.