We break down what buyers need to know before buying a used VW Passat
Looks great. Drives fine. But here’s the catch …
Volkswagen’s Passat has long been the sensible German alternative to midsize sedans like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Mazda6. For Canadian buyers looking for European refinement without stepping up to a luxury badge, it offered a comfortable ride, a cavernous interior and understated styling. But if you’re considering a used 2019 to 2022 model, be aware: the Passat delivers on space and comfort, but less so on driving excitement.
The Passat was Volkswagen’s answer to the family sedan segment. Once a solid seller in Europe and North America, VW announced in 2021 that the model would be discontinued in Canada, with the final units sold in 2022. That makes it a relatively recent but now orphaned option on the used market.
This generation came with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. The drivetrain is smooth and efficient, but it won’t thrill. Acceleration is adequate, and handling is tuned more for comfort than agility. For drivers seeking engagement behind the wheel, other models in this class may offer more personality. Fuel economy is reasonable for a midsize sedan of this era, rated at approximately 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.5 on the highway.
Where the Passat stands out is in cabin space and finish. The interior is roomy, quiet and well put together, with one of the largest trunks in its class—over 450 litres. Higher trims like the Highline and Execline added leather upholstery, navigation, premium audio and a suite of driver assistance tech.
That tech, however, can be hit or miss. Safety features like lane keep assist, proximity sensors and blind spot monitoring are useful in theory but can be overactive in practice, especially in tight spaces such as parking garages or when pulling up to a service window at a coffee shop or fast-food restaurant. Some drivers also report issues with infotainment bugs and false alerts from the tire pressure system.
Volkswagen’s reliability in Canada has improved over the years, but electrical quirks remain a concern. In colder climates, sensors and software can be especially finicky. While the powertrain is solid, repairs involving electronics can be costly due to the European parts network. A pre-purchase inspection focused on electronics is highly recommended. There were no major mechanical recalls for this generation, though some 2019 models received software updates to improve infotainment responsiveness.
What to look for includes 2020 to 2022 models, which received updated infotainment and minor styling tweaks. The base Comfortline trim offers the best value, while the Execline adds luxury without affecting performance. Choose models with a consistent service history and recent software updates. Avoid units with electrical issues or frequent warning light complaints. Buyers seeking a sporty driving experience may be better served by the Mazda6 or Accord Sport, which offer more driver feedback and performance options in the same price range.
Resale pricing as of 2025 ranges from $17,000 to $21,000 for the 2019 Comfortline and $23,000 to $27,000 for the 2020 to 2022 Execline, depending on mileage and condition. These prices reflect typical private and certified used sales in larger Canadian markets such as Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver. Actual values may vary by region and maintenance records. Depreciation has been moderate, and values have stabilized now that the model is out of production.
Although the Passat is no longer sold new in Canada, parts availability remains solid thanks to shared components with the Tiguan and Golf. However, expect higher labour costs than those of Japanese competitors.
Our Verdict
The 2019–2022 Volkswagen Passat offers comfort, space and understated style at a fair used price. It’s a smart buy for families or commuters who prioritize refinement over performance. However, its overly cautious tech, numb driving feel and above-average repair costs make it less appealing to driving enthusiasts or budget-focused buyers.
| Auto Desk
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