Faults:

Nothing really, just the usual wear and tear parts replaced expected of an 8 year old car. All services and cam-belt carried out.

Dashboard has a bit of a vibration at lower speeds. Annoying, but not really a fault, heard this is a common annoyance on this model.

Tank flap reluctant to open sometimes.

General Comments:

If you are needing a large family or executive saloon look no further than the VW Passat, it can do it all!

I have had the car two years with no major issues. It's lovely to drive and look at, and feels solid like it will last forever. Lovely looking car in blue with window tints, 17 inch VW alloys. Key-less start - a bit of a gimmick now that I am used to it. But all modern cars are like this now.

1.6 TDi has amazing economy - 55 - 65 mpg on average depending how you drive. The power is fine also. I have heard people complain this engine is under-powered but I have no idea what they are talking about, it moves very quickly if you floor it! Driving modes like sport sharpen up the throttle response as well. I'd imagine the bigger 2.0 diesel is better, but if you want a balance of the best economy with reasonable performance, the 1.6 TDi will do you fine. Manual box is easy to use, I have heard the DSG automatic boxes are good too and do not blunt economy or performance either.

SE Business model is a mid range trim and has all electrics. Seats are sporty and comfortable. Front assist and radar are actually useful, I do like some modern features. Auto hold handbrake as well is nice once used to it and you know how to use it. Infotainment system is OK if a bit laggy sometimes, and has a decent sound quality from the radio (after much messing about with settings), DAB digital radio as well. Visibility is excellent for a modern car - it has a boxy 1990's feel and look about it, very easy to see out of and park, and with parking sensors it makes this large car easy to maneuver around town. Brakes are sharp, clutch is light.

Super low running costs, cheap tax, insurance, and servicing is reasonable at most garages.

But you don't wanna be driving around town too much - this car is at its best on country roads or long motorways drives getting excellent economy and cruising in absolute comfort. Really honestly, a Rolls Royce must be the only thing better.

If you cant tell already, I really like the Passat. If I am being picky trying to find negatives, you could say its all a bit too boring. But if you want a fun driving car, try a Mazda 6, Ford Mondeo, or Vauxhall Insignia. If you want reliability and solid motoring, try a Toyota Avensis or VW Passat. I'll settle for the Passat every time.

Faults:

Required just a service so far.

Tyre pressure monitor system a bit dodgy.

Thought I had an oil leak, but it turns out it was just excess oil from a previous careless mechanic spilling it.

General Comments:

A great used buy last year, this Passat has been excellent. A bit expensive to buy compared to rival cars (Ford Mondeo, Vauxhall Insignia, etc), but overall this car feels top quality.

GT model is the one to have - very nice interior and options. The car is great to travel in, very smooth and comfortable.

Exterior wise it is stunning - I think the car looks great. It would stand out more had the Passat not been so common on the roads. Popular as a taxi as well I believe. My car is grey which most seem to be.

1.6 diesel engine with the semi-auto DSG box provides decent acceleration. Not the fastest car in the world, but with over 50 mpg regularly you cannot complain.

If you are after a solid reliable car, give the Passat a look. Just be aware there is a lot of over priced cars in the used market at the moment.