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Volkswagen Passat (1988 - 1997)

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BY JONATHAN CROUCH

Introductionword count: 54

So you need a smart second-hand family-sized car that will suit both business and family needs equally as well? Something of high quality, yet with more than just a dash of style? Volkswagen's Passat should fit the bill. It boasts thorough German engineering and, in later guises, build quality equal or superior to BMW's.

Modelsword count: 52

Models Covered: Third generation Passat - 1988 to 1993: Saloon, Estate, 1.8, 2.0, 1.6 turbo diesel, 1.9 turbo diesel [L, CL, GL, GT] Fourth generation Passat - 1993-1997: Saloon, Estate, 1.8, 2.0, 1.9 turbo diesel [L, CL, 90bhp CL, 115bhp CL, GL, L Umwelt TD, CL Umwelt TD, CL TDI, GL TDI])

Historyword count: 303

The third generation Passat that appeared in 1988 took the car up-market in the perceptions of many buyers - somewhere between a Sierra and an Audi 80. The body choice was between saloon and estate. There were eight and 16-valve 1.8-litre engines and a 2.0-litre unit. The 1.6-litre turbo diesel remained but was replaced by a 1.9-litre TD powerplant in 1992. By then, Volkswagen was also offering 2.8-litre VR6 flagship models. The fourth generation car that arrived in 1993 looked very similar but Volkswagen insisted that the changes amounted to much more than just a facelift and that virtually every body panel was new. Build quality was certainly excellent and specification much improved for the money. Again, the bodystyle choice was either saloon or estate and twin airbags were standard across the range. The first fourth generation models are to be found on M-plates; choose between standard or 90bhp 1.8-litre petrol engines, a 2.0-litre petrol unit (optionally uprated to 115bhp) and a 1.9-litre turbo diesel (offered in `Umwelt` or more powerful `TDI` guises). Later versions got air conditioning as standard, even in mid-range trim. Again, there was also a 2.8-litre VR6 petrol flagship, but this was soon discontinued. The fifth generation Passat appeared early in 1997 and was the best Passat ever made. The new look said much about the aggressive way Volkswagen intended the car to shake up the medium range sector. Five engines were used; a 1.6 16v, a 1.8 20v, a 1.9 turbo diesel, a unique five-cylinder VR5 petrol unit and the 2.8 VR6. There were four trim levels; E, S, SE and Sport. Estates arrived in October 1997. Subsequently, the 1.6 and E trim were dropped and the TDI diesel engine was uprated to 115bhp with high pressure direct injection. Diesel buyers also gained a 150bhp V6 TDI option.

What You Getword count: 89

A better-built alternative to a Sierra or a Cavalier that probably won't get you mistaken by the neighbours as a cellphone salesman. Ignore the pre-'88 cars. After that, almost anything makes sense - though parts prices can be a shock. The estate is probably the version to go for and avoids the stodgy image of the four-door. Diesels are also good - and sought after. Alloy wheels do a lot for the car's looks. Safety has always been a Passat strongpoint; this is a car you buy and keep.

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Scoring (subset of scores)

Category: Spacious Family Cars

Performance
50%
Handling
50%
Comfort
60%
Space
70%
Styling, Build, Value, Equipment, Depreciation, Handling, Insurance and Total scores are available with our full data feed.

This is an excerpt from our full review.
To access the full content library please contact us on 0330 0020 227 or click here

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