1996 Volkswagen Passat GLX review from North America

Front Hub Bearings had to be replaced at 64,000 miles.

This car handles like a sports car, but can carry four adults comfortably and has a large trunk too.

The disc brakes are excellent.

My car has an automatic transmission, however a 5 speed manual would let the allow the VR6 to rev into the 4000+ RPM range where it really struts its stuff!

Terrific highway passing capability. However, with the automatic it is a little slower than I prefer from a standstill.

The paint is terrific. The car is over eight years old and still shines like a jewel.

The leather interior has likewise held up beautifully.

The car needs to be maintained meticulously or it will not run correctly. You cannot beat it to death and neglect maintenance like you can get away with doing to most Japanese brands.

Change the oil religiously. Keep an eye on your tires and keep them aligned. Watch all fluid levels. Keep the chassis and doors lubed.

The check engine light comes on too often. The sensors in the car are too sensitive and the light is activated for transient conditions that are not real problems.

The ABS system is too sensitive and sometimes activates when not actually necessary.

The "Premium Audio" system is dated. Consider replacing with an aftermarket system, but make sure the installer knows how to do so without messing up your diagnostic system!

If you live in a cold climate, keep the car garaged. The door locks have a nasty habit of freezing up!

I have known other people that disliked this car intensely. The complained the car needed too many repairs. However, my own experience has been mostly positive.