2019 Volkswagen Passat Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Although the 2019 Volkswagen Passat may not get as much hype as the Toyota Camry, it's still more than worthy of a test drive. Good real-world fuel economy and a sizable interior help make the Passat a highly recommended family car. This midsize sedan also benefits from VW's excellent bumper-to-bumper warranty coverage. Despite its understated styling, the Passat is also a rather entertaining car to drive. However, does the Passat have enough good qualities to separate it from the competition?

What's New for 2019?

Like competitors such as the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord, the 2019 Volkswagen Passat now comes standard with some beneficial safety technologies. Volkswagen also decided to no longer offer the Passat with a meaty V6 engine. Furthermore, last year's sportier GT model has been dropped from the lineup.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2019 Volkswagen Passat – The Pros

1. Lively, Energetic Performance

Although some folks will miss the Passat's available V6 engine, the turbocharged four-cylinder has received impressive reviews. It's dialed to produce a competitive 170 horsepower and more than 180 pound-feet of torque. Although the Passat may not be as quick as some of today's other midsize family sedans, it has good passenger power. A responsive automatic transmission also helps the Passat to feel lively. When you step on the throttle, there's very little turbo lag.

2. Better On Gas Than You May Think

You will grow to appreciate this car's efficiency. Its transmission is geared to keep the engine's rpms low, which promotes better fuel economy. The 2019 Volkswagen Passat is rated to return a frugal 26 mpg in town and 36 mpg on the freeway. However, some car reviewers have averaged up to 40 mpg. Volkswagen also recommended the use of less expensive regular unleaded.

3. European Handling

European sedans have a reputation for delivering good handling. The 2019 Volkswagen Passat certainly gets high marks for its stable road manners. While a performance-calibrated suspension is no longer offered, most drivers will find the standard suspension to be sporty enough. You'll enjoy how controlled this car feels around sweeping curves. The SE R-Line trim's larger 18-inch wheels also help with handling. Drivers will also enjoy the sedan's grippy, three-spoke steering wheel.

4. Good Value with Volkswagen's People First Warranty

Prices for the 2019 Volkswagen Passat start at roughly $25,000. This means the Passat is just a bit higher than some of the competition. However, Volkswagen's 72,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty is a major plus. Because the warranty is transferable to future owners, it can help boost the Passat's market value. Some of the standard equipment includes a 6.3-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Volkswagen excellent V-Tex upholstery, and keyless ignition.

5. Sportier-Looking SE R-Line Model

The base Wolfsburg model looks a bit conservative. It doesn't have a great deal of charisma. Drivers seeking more style should step up to the SE R-Line model. A set of 19-inch alloy wheels give the Passat SE R-Line a lot more attitude. LED headlights are also found on the SE R-Line model. A rear sport valence further bolsters the sedan's appearance. The interior looks sportier as well. Carbon fiber accents and aluminum pedals give it a more exciting vibe.

6. Room to Spare

If you prioritize passenger room, the 2019 Volkswagen Passat will more than meet your expectations. With around 39.1 inches of legroom in the back, your family will have no complaints about the Passat's level of comfort. Supportive, well-contoured seats also help make the Passat a great long-distance cruiser. Although the Passat does not boast the roomiest trunk in the segment, it's wide design ensures easy cargo loading.

7. More Standard Safety Technologies

All versions of the 2019 Volkswagen Passat now come standard with valuable driver-assist technologies. While blind-spot monitors helps you to better judge traffic in the next lane, automatic emergency braking helps during times when you become distracted. If you choose the SE R-Line model, you'll also benefit from active lane control and smart cruise control.

8. Clutter-Free Interior

A lot of drivers will enjoy the Passat's straightforward interior design. None of the controls are difficult to use. You'll be surrounded by simple buttons. Steering wheel-mounted controls enable you to easily operate the sound system and Bluetooth. The climate system is just as easy to adjust while on the road. This is a big selling point for the drivers who hate dealing with unnecessarily complicated technology.

9. Fender Premium Sound System

The base stereo system sounds delivers an average music listening experience. If you desire a more inspiring sound, step up the SE R-Line's Fender premium audio system. It packs 400 watts of power. When listening to your favorite songs, you appreciate the enhanced clarity of the Fender-branded speakers.

10. Terrific Outward Visibility

Impressive outward visibility helps improve the 2019 Volkswagen Passat's safety profile. Because of the sedan's low dash, even shorter drivers will have good vision. Big windows also help you to easily see out. These qualities make the Passat a solid choice for teenagers.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 Volkswagen Passat – The Cons

1. V6 Engine Has Gone Missing

The Passat's previously available V6 engine packed a formidable 280 horsepower. Drivers enjoyed the engine's heavy punch off the line. Sadly for some folks, Volkswagen decided to no longer offer it for 2019. Although the standard turbocharged four-cylinder develops ample power, you may still yearn for the V6's extra torque. In terms of acceleration, expect the V6-powered Toyota Camry to be a noticeably quicker.

2. Some Questionable Safety Scores

Despite receiving an NHTSA five-star overall safety rating, the 2019 Volkswagen Passat didn't garner the best crash scores from the IIHS. During the small overlap front test, it only received a "Marginal" rating. Furthermore, the IIHS gave the Passat's standard headlights a "Poor" rating. LED headlights are only available on the more expensive SE R-Line model. Before you decide to buy a 2019 Volkswagen Passat, be sure to keep these issues in mind.

3. GT Model Has Been Discontinued

Volkswagen did away with the more athletic GT model. It came equipped with a sports-calibrated suspension, which promoted crisper handling. While the Passat handles good in its standard form, there's no denying the discontinued GT model's more responsive feel on the road. If you desire a family sedan with a sportier character, check out the 2019 Accord Touring 2.0T and the 2019 Mazda 6.

4. Lacks an Optional AWD System

You will have no issues with the Passat's wet-weather traction. However, its front-wheel drive system may not get the job done in the snow. The 2019 Subaru Legacy's standard AWD system makes it one of the best family sedans for wintry conditions.

5. Base Wolfsburg Model Has a Boring Look

If you are looking for a discreet car, the base Passat is a great choice. It calmly blends into the crowd without making a fuss. However, drivers seeking more flair will be a bit disappointed. The best option is to choose the more interesting Passat SE R-Line.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

Or course, a lot of car shoppers will be looking at the 2019 Honda Accord. It's more entertaining to drive and has a more eye-catching exterior appearance. Most people will also find the Accord's interior to be just as comfortable. However, some drivers may desire more oomph from the Accord's smaller base engine. Furthermore, Volkswagen gives you a much longer bumper-to-bumper warranty.

The top-selling Toyota Camry is also a good choice. It's very reliable and can return more than 40 mpg on the highway. An optional V6 engine also enables the Camry to deliver more performance than the Passat.

You should consider the redesigned 2019 Nissan Altima as well. For the first time ever, it can be equipped with all-wheel drive. However, the long-term dependability of the all-new Altima is completely unknown.

Conclusion

There are a lot of reasons why you should pick the 2019 Volkswagen Passat. For starters, it's a comfy family hauler that returns splendid real-world fuel economy. VW's outstanding warranty package also helps make the Passat a legitimate bargain. While the Passat doesn't have many low points, there are a few weaknesses to keep in mind. The base model's blah appearance will certainly leave some drivers wanting more style. Furthermore, you should take a closer examination of the Passat's crash scores.