2000 was the year Volkswagen offered minor styling upgrades for the Passat B5, as well as mechanical revisions, bound to make the sedan a more attractive proposition in the at-that-time competitive saloon market. Just like the Golf, the Passat family made a name for itself using features like quality, comfort and reliability, thus allowing it to secure a place among the most desirable options in its segment.
PROS & CONS
Pros
Strong Points
- Frugal Tdi Versions
- Potent Diesels
- High-Quality Assembly
- Reliable
- Comfortable
Recommended Versions
- The 130 Hp 1.9 Tdi Is A Must
- 2.0-Liter Petrol Version
- 2.0-Liter Petrol Version
Cons
Weak Points
- Boring To Drive
- Way Too Loud Diesels
- Uninspiring Design
- Gas-Guzzling Petrol Units
Stay Away From
- Forget About The 2.8-Liter V6 4Motion Models
- Avoid The 2.3-Liter V5 Mill
Attention
Known Problems & Recalls
- – Expect Issues With The Suspension System And The Two Axles
- – Gearbox Misfires Are A Known Problem, A Common One But Also Expensive To Fix
CAR DETAILS
Drive
Powertrain
Volkswagen made no less than eight powerplants available for the Passat B5, so there’s no issue with diversity as far as the engine compartment is concerned. However, the stars of the league are represented by the diesels, especially the benchmark 1.9-liter TDI good for 130 HP. Volkswagen also took care of the petrol range, and by that we’re hinting at the 4.0-liter W8, which despite its 275-horsepower arsenal, was more economical than the average eight-cylinder mill expected due to its special architecture.
Handling
Since the Passat B5 is underpinned by the same platform as the Volkswagen Golf Mk 4, expect a smooth driving experience on highways and A-roads, but that changes once the VW Passat B5 meets winding or bumpy roads, as the ride becomes unstable due to high body roll and imprecise cornering. There’s also a very small amount of feedback transmitted through the steering, although you’ll have a roughly accurate idea of what the wheels are during due, so precision is not an issue here.
Safety
The VW Passat B5 remains a sturdy car, better than its predecessors in this department, and the four stars it received after being examined by Euro NCAP reflect that. However, the model earned only two stars for pedestrian protection. Either way, those inside will feel safer knowing that the sedan is fitted with four airbags as standard, along with features like ABS, brake assist and ESP.
Interior
Comfort
The owners’ appreciation towards the Volkswagen Passat B5 has a lot to do with the sedan’s comfortable cabin. Besides the generous dimensions, perfect for a family car, the interior keeps noise where it should belong – outside, that is – while visibility is also a plus here. The driver can adjust the steering wheel and the seat as he or she pleases and passengers are offered with enough space regardless if they sit up front or at the back. Ideally, four adults are the best combo for comfortable travels inside the Passat, but the sedan can take five grown-ups, provided they are ready to compromise space.
Quality
Nothing bad to say about the build quality of the Passat B5, which manages to present itself as sturdy as its hatchback peer it shares underpinnings with, the Golf Mk 4. Everything seems well-glued together, but models with high mileage might display the expected wear and tear, including scratches and squeaking plastic panels. In higher-spec variants, the feeling is close to what premium models have to offer, a big plus for the Passat B5.
Practicality
Despite being the smallest in its segment, the boot offers 400 liters of space, less than the Honda Accord or the class champion Skoda Superb. As far as cabin storage is concerned, don’t expect spectacular solutions but the amount of door pockets, storage spaces, cup holders and the rather generous glovebox are enough to store various items, smartphones and small bottles.
Infotainment
Scarce is the name of the game here, but take into consideration the fact that we’re talking about an early-00s model. However, the Passat B5 benefits from a multi-function computer accompanied by a radio/cassette/CD player audio system featuring eight speakers scattered around the cabin.
Budget
Efficiency
There’s no doubt about the fact that if you’re looking for frugality, the diesel range is what you want. Also, you might want to consider the 2.0-liter petrol engine, as the other options in the range like to drink a lot of fuel.
Equipment
Generosity throughout base-spec models is something VW like the display with their cars, and the Passat makes no exception. For example, every Passat B5 offers alloy wheels and air conditioning system along with electric windows up front and at the back, while higher trim levels offer climate control and a CD player plus heated seats, front fog lights, electric passenger’s and driver’s seat, parking sensors and partial-leather seat trim.
Acquisition
Before deciding to buy a VW Passat B5, make sure you’re fully aware of the fact that it’s not the youngest car out there, so choose wisely as most models come with high mileage and a fair share of imperfections and issues. However, if you’re set on buying one, make sure it’s a diesel version that will help you keep cost under control. Otherwise, there’s enough space, comfort and practicality inside to keep a family happy on an everyday basis and long story short, this sedan will not disappoint you.