1996 Volkswagen Passat Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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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.
User reviews for 1996 Volkswagen Passat
Write a review1996 Volkswagen Passat Pricing
Trims & specs
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags
Audio System
AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
