Volkswagen Passat Estate Sport 1.8 TSI 5dr Car Review - March 2012

Although this version of the Passat Estate does have a Sport tag added to it, this isn’t really reflected in the ride which is soft and comfortable, and takes many of the bumps in its stride. However, this does mean that there is a significant amount of body roll when cornering, and the steering doesn’t feel as fun and responsive as it does in many other vehicles. The driving seats adjust well along with the steering wheel to suit the driver, although some more support in the seat would make the experience more comfortable. Visibility is also very good both to the front and rear.

The engine performance delivered by the petrol engine does eclipse the figures on offer by some of the diesel engines, with acceleration from 0-62mph taking only 8.7 seconds. The top speed of 137mph is also very good, while the refined and calm cabin means that the Passat Estate is perfectly suited to long journeys on the motorway.

Trying to make an attractive estate car that doesn’t look like a rectangular box has been something many manufacturers have achieved over recent years, and many of the angles on the Passat Estate have been smoothed away. The large headlight cluster and bold chrome grille does have a certain charm, while the back end is quite functional and has a large sill below the boot door. Inside the cabin is quite attractive with chunky controls on the centre console, although the plastic is a little dull.

The level of equipment included with the Sport level of trim is really quite good, with alloy wheels and satellite navigation both included as a part of the package. There is also cruise control and climate control to help on those long journeys, and Bluetooth connectivity is included as standard too.

There is no doubt that the Passat Estate is a car that has been designed around practicality, and with ample space for adults in the front and the rear of the car, it does deliver. The boot space is also plentiful, with back seats that fold forward, although these are a little awkward to use. The Passat has an excellent reputation for reliability, which is typical of cars made by Volkswagen.

The Passat Estate is a safe car to drive, with both front seat and back seat passengers protected by airbags in case of an accident. There are also a number of electronic driving aids that help the car avoid the accident where possible, and these features have helped the Passat Estate achieve five stars in the Euro NCAP safety test.

This version of the Passat Estate does have a significant price tag of £24,235, and the ownership of the car doesn’t become any more economical when you consider the running costs. Those looking for cars that are cheaper to own and run may want to consider the excellent diesel engines in the Passat Estate range.

The 1.8 litre petrol engine is designed for power rather than efficiency, and is able to deliver an average 40.9mpg. The insurance group is also higher than some of the diesel engines, but one positive aspect is that the Passat Estate does hold its value quite well because of its practicality and desirability. The Passat Estate is supplied with a three year or sixty thousand mile warranty, and also benefits from a one year roadside breakdown assistance policy.