Auto Guide
2021 Volkswagen Passat
Used

Review and specifications

2021 Volkswagen Passat

The changes to the updated 2020 Passat help the midsized sedan keep pace with the competition in terms of infotainment and a full complement of standard advanced safety features. The Passat also retains its generous interior space and responsive handling. The ride is on the firm side but absorbs bumps decently. The 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission deliver power effortlessly, but initial acceleration from a stop feels a bit abrupt and fuel economy trails the competition. The front seats are comfortable and rear-seat occupants benefit from limousine-like spaciousness. The trunk is large. Controls are very easy to use, and so is the infotainment system. 2022 is the final year for the Passat.

Market value
$13,925
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
5
View listings Find dealers
Model year 2021
Owner rating Not rated
Reliability Not rated
Data updated December 4, 2025

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
sedan
Drive type
FWD
Transmission
Automatic, 6-speed
Category
Midsized cars
Generation began
2020

Pricing

Current retail median
$13,925
Retail value range
$13,125 - $16,575
Original MSRP range
$23,995 - $29,995
Trade-in range
$9,870 - $13,460

Ratings

Road test score
78/100

Fuel economy

EPA city
23 MPG
EPA highway
34 MPG
EPA combined
27 MPG
Tested city
17 MPG
Tested highway
43 MPG
Tested overall
28 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,415
Cruising range
510 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3 sec
0-60 mph
7.9 sec
60-0 mph braking
130 ft
Avoidance speed
52 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
194 in
Width
72 in
Height
58 in
Wheelbase
110 in
Weight
3,315 lb
Maximum load
925 lb
Towing capacity
0 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
3.5 in
Front leg room
42.5 in
Rear head room
3 in
Rear leg room
33 in
Luggage
3+1+0

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
7/10
Greenhouse gas score
6/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Volkswagen

Most Volkswagens are well-built, agile, fun-to-drive cars that feel slightly more premium than their competitors. Its lineup is focused on SUVs, most of which have spacious, comfortable interiors and unexpectedly responsive driving dynamics. Its Golf hatchback, especially in performance trims, is a rare balance of practicality and driving thrills. Most models, including its EVs, have excellent fit and finish. Brand-wide downsides include unintuitive controls and infotainment systems, and below-average reliability for new cars. Reliability for used VWs is average.

Vehicle ID: 20152 First published: November 19, 2020 Updated: December 4, 2025

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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