2004 Volkswagen Passat GL review from North America
"A good alternative to Japanese models"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Tiptronic would not shift down in "manual mode".
Condensation in headlamp.
General comments?
Both problems promptly fixed by courteous dealer under warranty.
This is my second Passat (first was a 2000 V6 GLS Wagon, which was excellent apart from a failing water pump at 40K).
Beats the pants off Camrys & Accords. Build quality light years ahead of American cars.
MPG: 22 town,30 highway. Premium gas.
Recommended Reviews:
![]() ![]() | Go for it if you want to keep it at the dealership and not drive it over half the time! |
![]() ![]() | Solid, comfortable, but trouble-prone |
All 2004 Volkswagen Passat reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8T Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 12000 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda MX5 |
| Date of Entry | 25th September, 2007 |




