2014 Volkswagen Passat Review: Key Features, Performance, and Value

When I got into the 2014 Volkswagen Passat, I felt excited. This car is known for being comfortable, fun to drive, and good on gas. I wondered if the 2014 model would meet its high standards.

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat distinguishes itself in the midsize sedan market.. It offers a great driving experience and looks good too. The Passat combines style with practicality, making it a standout in its class.

While the Passat may not be the most thrilling car on the market, it excels in key areas such as driving experience, fuel efficiency, and value. Its smooth handling and comfort make every drive enjoyable.

Introduction to the 2014 Volkswagen Passat

The Volkswagen Passat has a long history, starting over 40 years ago. The 2014 model is a key part of this story. It has a new look, better inside, and more fuel-efficient engines. This makes it a great choice for everyday driving.

Overview of the Passat’s History

The first Passat came out in 1973. Since then, it has changed a lot. Each new generation made the Passat more comfortable, roomy, and reliable. It started with small engines and now has turbocharged ones.

What Sets the 2014 Model Apart

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat is special because of its updated interior, good fuel economy, and advanced features. It has a 174-hp engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. This makes it efficient and comfortable to drive.

It also has a big cabin and easy-to-use tech. So, it’s perfect for daily driving and family trips. The 2014 Passat is a great mix of performance, features, and value.

Key Features of the 2014 Volkswagen Passat

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat is recognized for its comfort, technology, and safety, making it a standout in the midsize sedan market.

Interior Comfort and Space

The Passat’s interior is spacious and made with high-quality materials. It offers plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. You’ll also find lots of storage for your things.

Advanced Technology Options

Higher trims of the Passat have a top-notch infotainment system. It includes touchscreen navigation, smartphone integration, and a premium audio system. These features make driving more enjoyable and keep you connected.

Safety Features and Ratings

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat shines in safety. It has top Volkswagen Passat safety ratings from major auto groups. Its safety features protect you and your family on the road.

Safety Feature	Availability
Rearview Camera	Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring	Available
Forward Collision Warning	Available
Adaptive Cruise Control	Available

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat is a great choice. It offers comfort, tech, and safety. It’s a standout in the midsize sedan class.

Performance Overview of the 2014 Passat

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat comes with strong and fuel-saving engines. It promises a fun drive. With Volkswagen Passat performance in mind, you can pick from turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. These engines offer great power.

Engine Choices and Specs

TThe 2014 Passat offers a 1.8-liter TSI turbocharged petrol engine, producing 170 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, there’s a 2.0-liter TSI turbo petrol engine delivering 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.

Diesel enthusiasts can opt for either a 1.6-liter TDI or a 2.0-liter TDI engine. The 1.6-liter TDI generates 105 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.0-liter TDI offers 150 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. These engine options demonstrate the Passat’s versatility to meet various performance needs.

Fuel Efficiency Ratings

The 2014 Passat shines in fuel efficiency, especially with diesel engines. The 1.6-liter TDI engine gets 35 mpg in the city and 44 mpg on the highway. The 2.0-liter TDI engine gets 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway.

The turbocharged petrol engines also save fuel. The 1.8-liter TSI gets 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. The 2.0-liter TSI gets 23 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.

Handling and Ride Comfort

The 2014 Passat is known for its great handling and ride comfort. It offers a smooth and stable drive. Its high-speed stability and responsive steering are perfect for long trips. The cabin is also quiet, thanks to its noise insulation.

Driving the 2014 Volkswagen Passat is enjoyable, whether in the city or on the highway. It balances performance well, meeting many driving needs.

Trims and Packages Available for 2014

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat comes in various trim levels and packages. This range caters to different tastes and budgets. Whether you want a budget-friendly base model or premium features, the Passat has you covered.

SE and SEL Trims Explained

The Passat SE provides excellent value, featuring automatic climate control, cruise control, and a touchscreen. In contrast, the Passat SEL steps up with leather seats, a premium audio system, and advanced navigation.

Available Packages and Options

• The Technology Package for the Passat SE adds blind spot monitoring and a rearview camera.
• The Passat SEL can be upgraded with the Luxury Package. It includes a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a panoramic sunroof, and more.
• Genuine Volkswagen accessories, like sport pedals and bike racks, let you customize your Passat to fit your lifestyle.

With so many Volkswagen Passat trims and Volkswagen Passat packages, you can find the perfect mix of features, comfort, and value.

“The 2014 Volkswagen Passat offers a compelling blend of style, functionality, and available technology that sets it apart in the midsize sedan segment.”

Fuel Economy: Are You Getting Your Money’s Worth?

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat stands out for its fuel economy. Its BlueMotion technology, found in the 1.6 TDI and 2.0 TDI diesel models, boosts miles per gallon (MPG). These diesel Passats get up to 43 MPG on the highway and 31 MPG in the city.

But the Passat’s fuel economy is more than just numbers. Real-world reviews often highlight its efficiency, especially on highways. Drivers say they get close to the EPA’s estimates, making the Passat a smart pick for those who want to save on fuel without sacrificing performance.

City vs. Highway Mileage

The Passat’s highway fuel economy is impressive, but city mileage can change based on how you drive. The gasoline engines, like the 1.8T and 2.0T, get slightly lower city MPG than the diesel ones. Still, the Passat’s fuel efficiency is a big plus, especially for those who drive long distances on highways.

Real-World Fuel Economy Reviews

• Car experts say the Passat often beats the EPA’s fuel economy estimates, especially on highways.
• Drivers have reported fuel economy ranging from 30 MPG in the city to over 40 MPG on highways, based on the engine and driving.
• The diesel BlueMotion variants are especially praised for their fuel efficiency, with some owners hitting up to 50 MPG on highways.

In short, the 2014 Volkswagen Passat has great Volkswagen Passat fuel economy and Volkswagen Passat mpg numbers, especially in its diesel models. While city MPG can differ, the Passat’s highway efficiency and real-world performance make it a great choice for those who care about fuel economy without losing out on driving fun.

Interior Quality and Design

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat has an interior that feels high-end. It’s made with premium materials like soft-touch surfaces and chrome accents. This creates a classy feel. While some plastics might wear out, the overall design and build are durable.

Spacious Cabin and Ample Cargo Space

The 2014 Passat is renowned for its spacious interior, offering ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. The wagon variant provides generous cargo space, making it ideal for travelers or those with extra gear.

The rear seats fold down effortlessly, enhancing its versatility and making it perfect for transporting larger items.

Intuitive Infotainment System

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat comes with a top-notch infotainment system. It’s easy to use, with a responsive touchscreen and simple menus. But, some users have found it slow at times or noticed dead pixels on the screen.

Feature	Description
Volkswagen Passat interior	Premium materials, sophisticated design, spacious cabin
Volkswagen Passat cargo space	Ample storage capacity, especially in the wagon variant, with fold-down rear seats
Infotainment system	Generally user-friendly with responsive touchscreen, but occasional issues with responsiveness or dead pixels

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat’s interior is a highlight. It’s well-designed and feels luxurious. The roomy layout and tech features make it a standout in the midsize sedan market.

Safety Ratings and Features

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat shines in the midsize sedan category for safety. It has top crash test ratings, showing Volkswagen’s dedication to keeping passengers safe. The Passat also comes with a wide range of standard and advanced safety features.

Crash Test Ratings Overview

The 2014 Passat scored an overall safety rating of five out of five stars in government crash tests by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It got a perfect five stars in side crash tests and four stars in frontal and rollover tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave it a “Good” rating in all crash tests.

Standard and Optional Safety Technologies

• The 2014 Passat has a strong set of safety features right off the bat. These include six airbags, electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and a rearview camera.
• For those looking for more, higher trims and packages offer forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning.
• Its steel-reinforced body and crumple zones help protect it in crashes.

Safety Feature	Standard	Optional
Airbags	✓	–
Electronic Stability Control	✓	–
Anti-lock Brakes	✓	–
Rearview Camera	✓	–
Forward Collision Warning	–	✓
Automatic Emergency Braking	–	✓
Blind-spot Monitoring	–	✓
Lane Departure Warning	–	✓

The 2014 Passat is equipped with notable safety features and excellent crash test ratings, ensuring a secure environment for both you and your passengers.

How Does the 2014 Passat Compare to Its Rivals?

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat competes in the mid-size sedan market against big names like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Yet, the Passat shines with its European driving feel and practical features. It stands out from the crowd.

Comparison with the Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is a top pick in the mid-size segment. It’s known for being reliable, fuel-efficient, and having a comfy interior. But, the Passat offers a more exciting drive and a more luxurious feel inside.

The Passat’s suspension and steering make it more refined and fun to drive. This appeals to those who want a more engaging driving experience.

Comparison with the Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry is also a big player in the mid-size sedan market. It’s famous for being reliable and having lots of room inside. But, the 2014 Passat has a more upscale interior and better materials.

The Passat also beats the Camry in fuel efficiency and cabin space. It’s a great choice for those who want style and a better driving experience.

Feature	Volkswagen Passat	Honda Accord	Toyota Camry
Engine Options	1.8L Turbo, 2.0L Turbo Diesel	2.4L Inline-4, 3.5L V6	2.5L Inline-4, 3.5L V6
Fuel Economy (Combined)	25-34 mpg	27-31 mpg	26-31 mpg
Cargo Space	15.9 cu ft	15.8 cu ft	15.4 cu ft
MSRP Range	$21,995 – $31,715	$22,455 – $34,680	$23,600 – $34,030

In summary, the 2014 Volkswagen Passat is a standout in the mid-size sedan market. It offers a unique mix of European driving, a refined interior, and good fuel efficiency. While the Accord and Camry are reliable, the Passat’s overall package makes it a great choice for those seeking a premium driving experience.

Owner Satisfaction and Reliability Ratings

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat gets good reviews for comfort and performance. Drivers love its spacious interior, smooth ride, and quick engine. But, the Passat’s reliability is hit-or-miss, with some owners facing electronic and mechanical problems as it gets older.

Customer Reviews on Comfort and Performance

Many owners of the 2014 Volkswagen Passat love its roomy cabin and comfy seats. They also praise the car’s smooth ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. The turbocharged engines are seen as a great mix of power and fuel efficiency.

Long-term Reliability Insights

Although the 2014 Passat starts off well, some Volkswagen Passat reliability issues pop up later. Problems include electronic issues like infotainment system failures and sensor problems. Diesel engine issues, like DPF and EGR problems, are also common. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding these Volkswagen Passat reliability issues.

Reliability Metric	2014 Volkswagen Passat	2013 BMW 5-Series
Reliability Rating	4.1/5	4.2/5
Average Yearly Maintenance Costs	$556	$797
Estimated Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years	$5,659	$13,530
Total Recalls	7	4

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat has a reliability rating of 4.1/5. But, its maintenance costs can add up, with an estimated $5,659 in the first 10 years. Keeping up with maintenance, especially for diesel models, can help avoid long-term Volkswagen Passat reliability issues.

Pricing and Value Proposition

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat is a great deal, especially for those looking at used cars. When it was new, it started at around $20,895. Now, its used prices are much lower, making it a smart buy for those on a budget.

MSRP vs. Used Car Pricing

The average price for a used 2014 Volkswagen Passat is between $10,000 and $15,000. This price varies based on the car’s mileage, condition, and trim level. It’s a big discount from the original price, offering a great deal on a midsize sedan.

Cost of Ownership Over Time

The 2014 Passat also has a low cost of ownership over time. Its fuel efficiency is impressive, with up to 36 mpg on the highway. But, buyers should also think about maintenance and repair costs, especially for cars with high mileage.

Feature	2014 Volkswagen Passat	2024 Honda Accord
Engine	2.0L 174 hp inline-four	1.5L 192 hp inline-four
Fuel Economy (City/Highway)	24 mpg / 36 mpg	29 mpg / 37 mpg
Trunk Space	15.9 cubic feet	16.7 cubic feet
Safety Ratings	4-star overall NHTSA	5-star overall NHTSA
Reliability Ratings	80/100 J.D. Power	84/100 J.D. Power

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat is a great value, with used prices that are hard to beat. While maintenance costs are something to consider, the Passat’s fuel efficiency and overall cost make it a quality midsize sedan.

Conclusion: Is the 2014 Volkswagen Passat Right for You?

Recap of Strengths and Weaknesses

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat is a great choice for those looking for comfort and value. It has a roomy interior, good fuel efficiency, and a smooth ride. But, it may have some reliability problems with its diesel engines and transmission.

Final Thoughts on the 2014 Passat

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat is a good pick for a mid-size sedan. It offers a comfortable ride, lots of space, and good fuel economy. If you’re considering a 2014 Passat, get a Volkswagen specialist to check it out. This way, you can avoid any problems and enjoy a great driving experience.

FAQ

What are the key features of the 2014 Volkswagen Passat?

The 2014 Volkswagen Passat is known for its comfort and fuel efficiency. It has a stylish exterior and a high-quality interior. It also comes with more efficient engine options than before.

How does the 2014 Passat’s performance compare to other mid-size sedans?

The 2014 Passat offers a smooth driving experience. It has a range of engines, including diesel, for great power and fuel use.

What are the available trim levels and packages for the 2014 Passat?

The 2014 Passat comes in several trims, like S, SE, Sport, and Highline. Higher trims have leather seats and advanced features. You can also add packages to customize your car.

How is the 2014 Passat’s fuel economy?

The 2014 Passat is very fuel-efficient, especially with its diesel engines. The BlueMotion technology helps improve MPG. Many users find it efficient, especially on long drives.

How is the interior quality and design of the 2014 Passat?

The 2014 Passat’s interior is made of high-quality materials. It’s spacious, especially in the wagon version. However, some plastics may wear out over time. The infotainment system is good but can have issues.

How safe is the 2014 Volkswagen Passat?

The 2014 Passat is very safe, thanks to Volkswagen’s focus on safety. It has many standard safety features and optional ones too. Its build quality also helps it perform well in crash tests.

How does the 2014 Passat compare to its rivals in the mid-size sedan segment?

The 2014 Passat is a strong competitor against the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. It offers a unique driving experience and high-quality interior. But, the Accord and Camry might be more reliable.

How reliable is the 2014 Volkswagen Passat?

Many owners are happy with the 2014 Passat, especially its comfort and performance. But, it can have electronic issues as it gets older. Regular maintenance, especially for diesel engines, is important to avoid problems.

Is the 2014 Passat a good value proposition?

The 2014 Passat is a good deal, especially when it comes to used car prices. It’s cost-effective to own, thanks to its fuel efficiency. However, remember to consider maintenance costs, especially for older vehicles.