Year
Used Volkswagen Passat for Sale Nationwide
2,575 results
About 1996 Volkswagen Passat
Overview

For 1996, Volkswagen continued to add tweaks to its Passage GLX and GLS sedans and wagons, and introduced a diesel version, called the TDI (turbo direct injection), later in the production year.
The entry-level Passat GLS four-door sedan came with a less-than-powerful 2.0-liter in-line 4-cylinder engine that generated 115 hp, while the higher-end GLX, available as both a sedan and a wagon, was powered by a more appropriate 2.8-liter V6 engine that pumped out 172 hp. The turbodiesel, aimed at those who sought better gas mileage, was equipped with a 1.9-liter, 90-hp 4-cylinder engine. It also was available in both sedan and wagon versions.
All engines were linked to a five-speed manual overdrive transmission, which was standard. A four-speed automatic was available as an option on the GLS and GLX.
In an effort to increase the Passat's safety features, daytime running lights were added in '96. Other standard features included front airbags for the driver and passenger, heated exterior mirrors, CFC-free air conditioning, power brakes, power steering, power windows, power door locks, cruise control, an audio anti-theft alarm system, and an eight-speaker AM/FM/cassette audio system.
The GLX trim package added anti-lock brakes and traction control; leather seats were available as an option.
While drivers noted that they enjoyed the car's handling, styling, roominess, and comfort, many reported numerous problems with the car, including the fact that "fit and finish" items such as door handles broke way to easily, resulting in expensive repairs.
4.0 Overall rating
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Anonymous
Reviewed a 1996 Volkswagen 4 Dr TDi Turbodiesel Sedan on Sep 22, 2012
I love this car, it was a great find for me. It is comfortable, drives as smooth as any newer car I have been in, has tons of room, front and back, and has a huge trunk. My Passat is the nicest car I have ever owned, 48.1 mpg helps alot too!!!
Stephen T
Reviewed a 1996 Volkswagen 4 Dr TDi Turbodiesel Sedan on May 28, 2010
Performance - acceleration=Good steady pull, Climbs hills, geared for the autobahn braking=Quick and predictable handling=Tight (not 'sharp'), flat (almost no roll), and inspires confidence Build Quality - It came with a thick stack of receipts for repairs (hope everything is sorted) It feels really solid, and doesn't rattle at all, with over 150,000 Mi. Appearance - Quirky/boxy and oh so German. Cost of Ownership - So far so good. The fuel economy is AMAZING, even while driving sporty. Fun Factor - Super conferrable, and fun knowing you aren't spending a ton of cash driving.
Anonymous
Reviewed a 1996 Volkswagen 4 Dr TDi Turbodiesel Sedan on Sep 28, 2010
I drive a 1996 Volksagen Passat TDi. It is a turbo Desiel injection, or TDi, and gets 45 highway and 37 city. This car has a decent resale value but why sell it. You make more money just off the gas mileage alone. Although it is great on gas it isnt the fastest so dont buy it and expect to win races. 0-60 in about 10 seconds isnt racer stats. So if your looking for a fun nice car that wont ruin your wallet size then get this car, but to have more fun i would get the stick, thats what i drive and i love it!
Andrei B
Reviewed a 1996 Volkswagen 4 Dr GLX V6 Sedan on Sep 2, 2009
199 HP, Manual Transmition. Burns ruber like nothing even if from 96 it has no rust whatsoever really roomy interior 36 MPG Highway, 28 MPG Urban maintenance is not that expensive if you buy all the parts online, the service centers will rip you off overall the best car i ever had...
1996 Volkswagen Passat Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| 4 Dr GLX V6 Sedan | $22,315 |
| 4 Dr TDi Turbodiesel Sedan | $19,855 |
| 4 Dr GLS Sedan | $18,915 |
| 4 Dr GLX V6 Wagon | $22,745 |
| 4 Dr TDi Turbodiesel Wagon | $20,335 |
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