Used Volkswagen Passat for sale near Clacton-on-sea

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 500
Average Price: Around £13,700

Volkswagen Passat (2015-2023) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Solid build quality – feels premium	Not exactly an exotic choice
Acres of boot space	It's priced against premium rivals
Classless image	Some question marks remain over reliability

Quick Summary

The Volkswagen Passat (2015-2023) is a popular eighth-generation model, offering a sensible choice for a four-door saloon or five-door estate. It was an all-new car in 2015, lighter, sharper, and up to 20% more economical than its predecessor, blending practicality with upmarket appeal. It provides a roomy, comfortable, and neatly finished interior, with generous legroom for rear passengers and excellent boot space: 586 litres for the saloon and 650 litres for the estate.

While not focused on sporty handling, the Passat offers a composed and comfortable drive, with well-suppressed noise and light controls ideal for daily use and long journeys. It came well-equipped, even in entry-level trims, and received a refresh in 2019 adding new tech like adaptive cruise control and LED headlights. Running costs are sensible, with efficient engines and the GTE plug-in hybrid offering impressive economy. Servicing options and extended warranties help manage long-term costs.

Best for: Buyers seeking a comfortable, refined, and practical family car with premium appeal without a full premium price tag, and those valuing efficiency (especially the GTE).

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritising sporty handling, or those who find its price too close to premium rivals when optioned up, or those needing the ultimate in boot access (saloon).


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Passat if: You're seeking a comfortable, refined, and practical family car with premium appeal without a full premium price tag, or valuing efficiency (especially the GTE).

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise sporty handling, find the price too close to premium rivals when optioned, or need the ultimate in boot access (saloon).

Competitive Position: The Volkswagen Passat (2015-2023) offers a compelling blend of comfort, refinement, practicality, and sensible running costs, giving it a semi-premium feel. While its price can creep up to rival entry-level premium cars and it doesn't offer the sportiest drive, its high-quality interior, advanced technology, and efficient engine options, including the GTE, make it a strong contender in the family car segment, especially for those seeking a sophisticated yet understated choice.

Read our full Volkswagen Passat Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from February 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.