Volkswagen Passat 2021 Review

Sometimes being old is good. Like with wine, for instance, or the stuff featured on PBS' Antiques Roadshow. But for the Volkswagen Passat, age seems to be a liability. The 2021 Passat is based on the fourth-generation model that debuted nearly a decade ago. Consequently, it's slowly fading into the background of the midsize sedan class.

On the upside, the Passat still has a few solid attributes such as a smooth ride and a roomy rear seat. But rivals such as the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5 have newer technology features, fresher styling and additional engine options that the Passat lacks. So is the Passat right for you? Check out our Expert Rating below to read our full in-depth evaluation. 

Which Passat does MatoCar recommend?

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat is available in three trim levels; S, SE and R-Line. All come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (174 horsepower, 206 lb-ft of torque) mated to a six-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. Highlighted standard features include:

S Starts you off with:

• LED headlights
• 17-inch wheels
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• 6.3-inch infotainment touchscreen
• Six-speaker audio system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Satellite radio
• Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Volkswagen and the car in front)
• Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while reversing)
• Automatic emergency braking (warns if a front impact is imminent and applies the brakes if you don't respond in time)

SE Adds a few features worth getting, including:

• Sunroof
• 18-inch wheels
• Power-adjustable driver's seat
• Heated front seats
• Simulated leather upholstery
• Keyless access with push-button ignition
• Remote start
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Dual-zone climate control
• Two rear passenger USB ports
• Lane keeping assist (steers the Passat back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)

R-Line Dresses up the Passat with:

• Sporty bodywork with gloss black exterior trim
• 19-inch wheels
• Paddle shifters
• Ambient lighting
• Special interior trim
• Upgraded 6.3-inch touchscreen with navigation
• Premium Fender audio system