Is the Volkswagen Passat a Good Car?

With the 2022 release, the Volkswagen Passat entered the final model year of the latest generation. It delivers the same fun VW performance as the rest of the lineup, along with generous cargo and passenger room, a graceful ride, and loads of standard features. For drivers trying to compare their options and buy the best car they can find, VW of Marion is here to break it down. Take a look at the Passat’s features, specs, and our honest recommendation.

Is Volkswagen Passat a good car?

Image used with permission via Volkswagen US Media Site

Yes, the Passat is a great car by any metric and a good value for money. This five-seat car is front-wheel drive standard and uses a 174-horsepower engine. You’ll also get an advanced touch screen with VW Car-Net phone app integration as part of the infotainment system.

Who should buy the 2022 VW Passat?

We think the latest Passat is a great fit for drivers who want an enjoyable, dependable car to last a while. The 16-cubic-foot cargo area and hands-free trunk will serve on-the-go parents. The keyless entry system can also come with VW Car-Net Safe and Secure, guiding you to your last parking spot. Think of the 2022 Passat as a reliable, multi-generation family sedan, something you could pass down to your kids. If you take such a vehicle in for appropriate VW auto service checks and keep it in good shape, it could easily last decades.

The 2022 Passat is certainly a vehicle you’ll want to keep for years. The latest editions include VW Remote Start and automatic safety features like a blind-spot monitor. During a long day in rough weather, nothing beats the Passat’s roomy back row, dual-zone climate control, and heated rear outboard seats.

You may be wondering about the Passat’s discontinuation. Rest assured, the Passat is as dependable as any other Volkswagen. It’s just that different types of cars become popular every decade, and Volkswagen will probably re-introduce it in the future with a few new twists. Simply put, the fact that the 2022 Passat is in its final year means that now is the best time to get one for less. You’ll get a reliable car with advanced active safety and infotainment, just like buying any new VW.

2022 Passat SE standard features

Since the S edition didn’t appear in 2022, the SE trim level is lowered to the starting model and gets a major price drop. Now is a better time than ever to get a standard Passat. The seats are appointed in comfortable V-Tex leatherette, rain-sensing windshield wipers are standard, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror helps keep you focused on the road.

If you do choose to get any upgrades, consider the available navigation system for the touch screen. With this bonus, the screen is more visible thanks to an illumination function. It uses dynamic route guidance for accurate turn-by-turn instructions. If you prefer to use your navigation apps, you can easily set up a link to your device with Car-Net and your choice of Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

What does VW Car-Net do on the Passat?

VW’s Car-Net lets you control all major connectivity and technology functions for your Volkswagen from your phone, all from the Car-Net app. For instance, Car-Net Safe and Secure, standard on the 2022 Passat, adds automatic crash notifications, emergency and roadside call assistance, a stolen vehicle locator, anti-theft alerts, and more. A built-in Wi-Fi hot spot can also be activated for any device, as long as it’s on your Verizon or T-Mobile plan.

After a long day in a new town, nobody wants to waste time trying to remember where they parked. One of the most convenient features of recent Passat sedans is VW Car-Net Remote Access powered by Parkopedia. Thanks to the convenient Car-Net app that controls these features from one hub, you can see a detailed GPS map leading to your Passat. You’ll reach your car quickly and still have time to switch on the AC before you get there.

VW Passat special editions

Apart from the standard edition, S or SE depending on the year, Volkswagen also designs the Passat R-Line. This enhanced trim level gets performance design cues like an exclusive R-Line grille, front bumper, and rear diffuser, along with chrome tailpipes and a rear spoiler. It rides on 19-inch alloy wheels and adds both a premium audio system and navigation for the touch screen, an option on the SE. A custom R-Line transmission helps squeeze every ounce of available power from the engine.

In 2022, an all-new Limited Edition trim level makes an appearance to commemorate the Passat’s final year. Expanding from the regular SE’s package, the 2022 Passat Limited adds Vienna leather sport seats, heated rear seats, and an eight-way front passenger seat. Whether you opt for a special model or the dependable 2022 Passat SE, you’ll get a refined driving experience from authentic German engineering.

VW Passat reliability ratings

Overall, the Volkswagen Passat receives above-average reliability ratings. This comes partly from a lower than average frequency of necessary repairs, as well as a lower than average cost to fix them. The average annual total repair and maintenance cost on the Volkswagen Passat is about $639, below the $652 average for all cars.

If you’re looking for a new Volkswagen at particularly low prices, nothing matches the value for money of the 2022 Passat. Instead of being a second priority at a general car dealership, get faster service and better incentives at a Volkswagen-specialized dealership. VW of Marion is the singular hub for all things Volkswagen around Williamson, Johnson, and surrounding counties. Bookmark our site and think of us whenever you need a new vehicle, parts, or certified Volkswagen auto service.

Thanks to the current market direction, you can get a superb midsize sedan like the 2022 Passat at a far better price than you might’ve before. To make the most of the situation and maximize your savings, leave it to VW of Marion. Take a look through our different inventory filters in a couple of clicks. You can browse our certified pre-owned VW inventory and even our standard pre-owned inventory to find Passats from the past few years, or grab a 2022 Passat discount while they last.