Note: This performance review was created when the 2015 Volkswagen Passat was new.
Performance: | 7.8 |
The 2015 Volkswagen Passat’s smooth highway ride, responsive handling and strong engine lineup impress reviewers. Test drivers are especially pleased with the TDI model’s peppy acceleration and excellent fuel economy.
The base 2015 Volkswagen Passat 1.8T comes with a 170-horsepower, turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. The Passat TDI comes with an updated turbodiesel 2.0-liter engine that produces 150 horsepower. The Passat V6 has a 280-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 engine. The Passat 1.8T comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission, and a six-speed automatic is optional. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the Passat TDI, and a six-speed automated manual is optional, while V6 models come standard with the automated manual transmission. According to the EPA, the 2015 VW Passat 1.8T gets 24/36 mpg city/highway with an automatic transmission, which is a bit low for the class. The 2015 Passat TDI gets 30/42 mpg city/highway, which is excellent for the class.
Critics say the Passat 1.8T has plenty of power and is faster than the Passat TDI, but add that the TDI still has great low-end power and fantastic fuel economy. Several say the TDI is their favorite engine for those reasons. The V6 model is also quite potent, according to test drivers.
Auto writers agree that the 2015 Volkswagen Passat has a composed highway ride, even over large bumps. They also think it’s fun to drive on a curvy road, with poised handling and strong brakes. Critics say the Passat’s steering is accurate, though some wish it provided better feedback and was a little easier to turn at low speeds.
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