Air mass sensors needed replacing at 80000 miles.
Fan belt tensioner snapped at 95000 miles.
ABS ECU Module failed at 98000 miles.
I have been driving this car for about 7 years and 90,000 miles, during which time it has been generally very reliable, with problems only starting to occur in the last year or so.
With 150bhp, performance is not bad, even with the Tiptronic gearbox.
I have found it to be a very comfortable car, with unbroken journeys of 5 or 6 hours easily achievable.
Boot is huge - I can get all holiday luggage for a family of 4 in it without having to resort to a roof box.
Fuel economy averages around 32mpg in mixed driving.
Interior cabin quality is very high. Even after 9 years it's showing very little wear, apart from the floor under the driver's feet.
Handling is not razor sharp even with the Sport model, but it's good enough for general driving. Ride quality is very good.
The only thing I think is not great is the standard fit VW radio - reception in the South East of England is only just OK on FM, and dreadful on AM.
I have the same car. Agree with your comments.
I've fitted an in-line aerial booster (About £5-£10 on ebay - search for "vw aerial booster"). Takes about 5 minutes to fit, and improves reception no end.
I've done about 55,000 miles in my 2002 SE model with just one fault (air mass meter). I've had no breakdowns, water leakes, window or central locking problems. This is my 3rd VW with no issues. I guess we have been fortunate. I get 33 mpg avg, with 40+ mpg on the motorway.
Engines or gearboxes don't tend to give any trouble. Sensors and some smaller components can dampen the owner experience - as can inept and arrogant VW dealers.
Anyway, these Passats are very good cars, in any form.
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