CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 500
Average Price: Around £12,600

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), the eighth-generation model, is a sensibly priced four-door saloon or five-door estate that falls between mainstream rivals such as the Ford Mondeo and smaller premium models including the BMW 3 Series. This all-new generation was lighter, sharper and up to 20% more economical than its predecessor, featuring advanced technologies and a mid-life refresh in 2019 that added new engines and tech. The spacious interior is neatly finished with easy-to-use infotainment systems, plenty of storage options, and a 586-litre boot (saloon) or 650-litre (estate), expandable to 1,152-litres and 1,780-litres respectively with rear seats folded.

The Passat is composed and capable, offering decent agility with excellent comfort and refinement. Precise steering and good front-end grip make it easy to place, whilst body control is impressive through corners. Engine options include conventional 1.6- and 2.0-litre TDI diesels returning over 59mpg, quiet 1.5- and 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged petrol options averaging 46mpg, and the punchy plug-in hybrid GTE delivering up to 201.8mpg claimed and 35 miles of electric range. Running costs are sensible, with flexible servicing available up to 20,000 miles or 24 months between visits. The Passat scored five stars in Euro NCAP crash testing and comes well-equipped even in entry-level specification.

Best for: Buyers seeking a comfortable, refined, and practical family car with premium feel, those wanting sensible running costs, and drivers prioritising quality build and spacious interiors.

Not ideal for: Those seeking an exotic or sporty choice, buyers with limited budgets (as pricing rivals premium executive cars), or those prioritising maximum boot accessibility (hatchback rivals offer better access).


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Passat if: You're seeking a comfortable, refined, and practical family car with premium feel, wanting sensible running costs, or prioritising quality build and spacious interiors.

Consider alternatives if: You're seeking an exotic or sporty choice, have a limited budget (as pricing rivals premium executive cars), or prioritise maximum boot accessibility (hatchback rivals offer better access).

Competitive Position: The Volkswagen Passat (2015-2023) is a strong contender in the executive saloon and estate market, offering solid build quality, acres of space, and sensible running costs. Whilst it may not match the BMW 3 Series for premium appeal or the Skoda Superb for practicality and value, the Passat delivers a compelling blend of comfort, refinement, and quality that justifies its position. Its classless image and comprehensive equipment make it an excellent choice for those wanting a high-quality, capable, and relaxing car with an appealingly premium edge, particularly when found at a sensible price.

Read our full Volkswagen Passat Review

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

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