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Independent review & score by Carivo
| Engine | 2.0L 4-Cylinder |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Automatic (S6) |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Regular |
| City / Hwy MPG | 24 / 36 MPG |
| Combined MPG | 28 MPG |
| Est. Annual Fuel Cost | $2,400 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 315 g/mi |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Base Price | $26,592–$33,882 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
With an overall Carivo score of 7.4/10, the 2022 Volkswagen Passat earns a Good rating among the sedans we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.9/10. It's a capable but unexceptional sedan — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 8.4/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. Safety is a strength too — 8.9/10 by our scoring. As with any car, verify the official ratings for your specific trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
The 8.1/10 performance score reflects a chassis and powertrain that punch above the segment norm — this is a sedan you choose partly for the drive itself. Technology comes in at 7.9/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $26,592–$33,882, 28 MPG, seating 5, the Volkswagen Passat sits in the mid-market bracket of the sedan segment. The 8.5/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this sedan delivers more than most of the class. At 4 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2022 Volkswagen Passat, but it needs the right buyer. and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
The 2022 Volkswagen Passat ranks #687 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 48% of the segment. Its 7.4/10 overall score is 0.1 points below the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $26,592 starting price sits close to the segment's median of $27,664.
Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full Sedan ranking →
Smart-money pick: the 2019 Volkswagen Passat scores 7.2/10 — within striking distance of the 2022's 7.4 — and starts roughly $2,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
| Year | Score | Starting price (MSRP when new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 (this review) | 7.4/10 | $26,592 | |
| 2021 | 7.4/10 | $25,743 | Read review → |
| 2020 | 7.4/10 | $24,895 | Read review → |
| 2019 | 7.2/10 | $24,046 | Read review → |
| 2018 | 7.2/10 | $23,197 | Read review → |
| 2017 | 7.1/10 | $22,349 | Read review → |
| 2016 | 7.1/10 | $21,500 | Read review → |
| 2015 | 7.0/10 | $20,651 | Read review → |
| 2014 | 6.9/10 | $18,200 | Read review → |
| 2013 | 6.9/10 | $17,420 | Read review → |
| 2012 | 6.9/10 | $16,640 | Read review → |
Explore the full lineup of Volkswagen models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.