2017 Volkswagen Passat Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Although the 2017 Volkswagen Passat is a bit less popular than today’s other midsize sedans, it still proves to be a worthy choice. You will grow to appreciate its remarkably roomy backseat and outstanding ride quality. Strong safety scores make the Passat an even more tempting family car.

What’s New for 2017?

In terms of performance and styling, the 2017 Volkswagen Passat remains the same. However, the various trim packages have been shuffled around.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2017 Volkswagen Passat – The Pros

1. Peppy & Efficient Base Engine

For good reason, most drivers will prefer the turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It delivers a lively performance without burning a great deal of fuel. When equipped with the 170-horsepower engine, the Passat recorded a competitive 0-60 time of 7.6 seconds. In terms of fuel efficiency, you can expect to get a solid 23 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

2. Strong V-6 Engine

If you crave a stronger punch under the hood, step up to the beefy V-6 engine. It develops a muscular 280 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A lot of drivers will appreciate the V-6 model’s quicker acceleration. The additional torque also enables the Passat to climb mountain roads with ease. Fuel economy tops out at 28 mpg.

3. Smooth & Quiet Performer

While driving the 2017 Volkswagen Passat, you will notice its smooth ride. The suspension system does a good job of absorbing rough impacts. Although the Passat isn’t noted for being a sporty sedan, it does feel very stable. Your family will also like the Passat’s quiet atmosphere. A well-insulated cabin helps keep road and wind noise to a minimum.

4. Sporty-Looking R-Line Model

If you desire the look of a powerful sports sedan, check out the Passat R-Line. An exclusive set of 19-inch Salvador wheels give the R-Line model an especially athletic stance. You will also notice the sedan’s sportier front and rear bumpers. Some of the hottest exterior colors include Fortana Red, Reef Blue, and Platinum Gray.

5. Relaxing Interior

Up to five people can comfortably fit inside the new VW Passat. The sedan’s extraordinary roomy backseat makes it the perfect fit for any family. Everyone will be rewarded with a surplus of legroom. According to numerous test drivers, the Passat has some of the most relaxing seats in its class. With nearly 16 cubic feet of cargo space in the back, you will always have plenty of room for groceries.

6. Reasonably Priced Base Model

If you can’t afford to splurge on the higher trim levels, the base Passat should keep you satisfied. It has an attractive price tag of $23,300. Brisk acceleration and a high-quality interior give it an advantage over rival base models. Some of the standard equipment includes automatic braking technology, a touch-screen display, and a backup camera.

7. Easy-to-Use Infotainment System

The Passat’s infotainment system has drastically improved over the years. It is now one of the most user-friendly interfaces on the market. Even first-time users will quickly learn how to navigate the infotainment system. A larger touch screen comes standard on the higher trim levels. Featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, VW’s App-Connect feature enables you to easily integrate your smartphone.

8. Well-Designed Adaptive Cruise Control System

Unfortunately, some adaptive cruise control systems don’t perform well in the real world. The Passat’s adaptive cruise control system does not suffer from any drawbacks. When the surrounding traffic begins to slow down, the system will immediately reduce your speed. It certainly helps drivers to remain relaxed on long road trips.

9. Luxurious SEL Premium

In terms of overall luxuriousness, the SEL Premium model sits atop the lineup. Featuring a 400-watt amplifier, the powerful Fender audio system will captivate music fans. Meanwhile, leather upholstery gives the cabin a more upscale character. If you do a lot of commuting in the city, the automated parallel-parking system is sure to come in handy.

10. Exceptional Safety Scores

Aside from its five-star safety rating, the 2017 Volkswagen Passat comes standard with some extremely useful advanced driving aids. All trims include automatic braking technology, which can bring the sedan to a stop in emergency situations. Available as an option, blind-spot monitoring will benefit the drivers who do a great deal of traveling on the highway. Lane departure warning is offered as well.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2017 Volkswagen Passat – The Cons

1. Sluggish Automatic Transmission

In some instances, the Passat’s automatic transmission has a tendency to feel sluggish. This is especially true when accelerating from a stop. Although the V-6 model comes equipped with a more advanced DSG transmission, it suffers from some of the same performance issues.

2. Not a Very Sporty Sedan

Some drivers may not find the 2017 Volkswagen Passat to be the most engaging car to drive. Not only does it fail to offer a manual transmission, but it also can’t be equipped with a sports-tuned suspension. If you crave a sportier driving experience, check out the Honda Accord and the Mazda 6.

3. Questionable Long-Term Reliability Ratings

Long-term reliability is not one of the Passat’s best qualities. It will require more repairs than a sedan such as the Toyota Camry.

How it stacks up to the competition:

The 2017 Volkswagen Passat competes against the 2017 Mazda 6 and the 2017 Honda Accord. Unlike the Mazda 6, the Passat can be equipped with a potent V-6 engine. Meanwhile, the Accord’s forward collision warning system and adaptive cruise control system are too sensitive in real-world driving conditions. Furthermore, Volkswagen's Car-Net infotainment system is far easier to use.

Conclusion:

Before you take home a new midsize sedan, be sure to at least test drive the 2017 Volkswagen Passat. Its well-built interior and strong base engine should intrigue plenty of car shoppers. Although the Passat does not provide the sportiest driving experience, it does offer brisk acceleration.