2015 Volkswagen Passat SE Business 2.0 TDi from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Comfortable and reliable modern car
Faults:
Clutch replacement was the most expensive so far.
Small oil leak. Probably top rocker cover gasket, no big deal, I'll fix it when I have time.
Dash lit up like a Christmas tree last winter indicating some faults, but disappeared quickly. Probably a sensor or battery going bad, no real faults. Changed battery to be sure, has not happened again.
Recently I changed the cam-belt and water pump for peace of mind. The car has also never missed an oil change according to its (full) history. Always buy these cars with history - avoid the rough ones with missing history. Be aware a lot are used as taxis, I do not think mine was (too good condition) just a genuine high mileage car.
General Comments:
One of the first Passat's of the newer shape for 2015, this car feels as good as new despite being nine years old and higher mileage.
Bought a couple of years ago the car has been great. Stunning in black with grey interior. I love the look of this car, very sharp. Boot space is massive!
SE Business model is a mid range trim level, it has sporty seats and some electrics. I think I'd prefer a GT model or higher, but this car even in basic "S" specification still has lots as standard. The interior is a nice place to be, everything is logically laid out and comfortable. The car is a very smooth motorway cruiser, and that diesel engine is muted at higher speeds. A little noisy and clattery around town, but all diesels are.
Great to drive. The 2.0 TDi also performs well when you need it, plenty of low down torque. It can also manage around 55 - 60 mpg or more as well. Very economical for the car's size and weight.
The Passat is a bit over priced on the used market even at this age and mileage, but it is worth I would say - it is a solid built quality car that should last a long time if looked after and driven properly.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 26th March, 2024
27th Sep 2022, 18:20
Nice review, the Passat is a good car. Myself I have had many of them over the years - a 1990 2.0 GL, a 1995 2.0 GL estate, a 2003 1.9 TDi SE, and more recently a 2010 Highline TDi 2.0.
All very reliable and nice cars, only thing to watch for on the diesels as the miles get higher is the clutch and flywheel (if it is manual) and the injectors and DPF can give expensive problems. All items mentioned failed on my 2010 Passat, thankfully I had a local mechanic that can repair such things for much cheaper than average, but most garages will charge silly amounts for these repairs which are common on all modern diesels unfortunately.
But look after the car well and hopefully you won't have any issues. Friend has a diesel 2015 Passat as well, it is an ex taxi with nearly 200K on it, it runs fine, the newer ones seem more solid. Enjoy the car!