The 2000 Volkswagen Passat lineup remained virtually unchanged from the previous year, though a few upgrades were added to the list of standard features and a few new tweaks and details we added to freshen the car up a bit.

Passat buyers could choose from two trim packages and two engine options. Trim packages included the entry-level GLS and the higher-end GLX. Standard features on the GLS included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, anti-lock brakes, traction control, cruise control, front and side airbags for the driver and passenger, a keyless entry system, daytime running lights, and an updated anti-theft alarm system with a coded ignition key. The GLX package added a sunroof and leather seats (powered in the front) as standard equipment, among other features.

An indicator on the dash that alerted drivers to brake wear was added as standard equipment in 2000. And after being delayed a year, VW's all-wheel-drive system, called 4MOTION, was finally available as an option.

The two engine options included a 1.8-liter, 150-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder, which was available only with the GLS trim package, and a 2.8-liter, 190-hp V6, which was dropped into both the GLS and GLX versions. A five-speed manual transmission was standard in the GLS, with a five-speed automatic available as an option; the automatic transmission was standard on the GLX package.

The high cost of upkeep was one of drivers' main complaints about the 2000 Passat, with the engine/powertrain and the electrical system cited as among the necessary repairs. On the positive side, drivers reported good gas mileage with the turbocharged 4-cylinder. Other positive points included the Passat's handling, styling, and roominess.