1997 Volkswagen Passat Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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$19,930 to $22,820

Original MSRP

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expert review

3.9

avg user rating

(16 reviews)
1997 Volkswagen Passat Preview summaryImage

In anticipation of a vehicle redesign in 1998, Volkswagen discontinued its entry-level Passat GLS trim package (with its four-cylinder engine) for 1997. However, the Passat was still available in a higher-end GLX trim version, which came with a 2.8-liter, 172-hp V6 engine, as well as the TDI (turbo direct injection) model that came with a 1.9-liter, 90-hp diesel engine. Both engines were linked to a five-speed manual transmission; a four-speed automatic was optional for the GLX.

Standard features for the Passat included front airbags for the driver and passenger, CFC-free air conditioning, power brakes, power steering, power windows, power door locks, cruise control, daytime running lights, heated exterior mirrors, an audio anti-theft alarm system, and an eight-speaker AM/FM/cassette audio system. The GLX added anti-lock brakes, while leather seats and a sunroof were available as options for both trim packages.

Generally, the 1997 Passat got positive reviews from drivers, who appreciated the car's styling, handling, comfort, and roominess. In addition, the Passat diesel's gas economy was noted as a positive point by drivers. Maintenance costs were among the negatives cited by drivers.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 9, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
While we highlight specific author bylines where possible, sometimes our content results from the combined efforts of several members of the CarGurus editorial team. As with all our editorial content, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 1997 Volkswagen Passat

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User rating:
by Kurt H
Oct 30, 2011
We had this one for 7 or 8 years.... its a car, takes you from a to b its not really ugly, and its not bad at all.... may be a little bit boring.... but when one is doing a lot of other stuff... this car does take you from a to b and you do not have to worry about it... i think its about 13 Passats to the dozen... this one had the combination of being a sedan, having the Syncro (4x4) and the 1,9 tdi 110 bhp engine .... thats the ain reason we held on to it for all those years. the next owner wrecked it. Oct 30, 2011
by Robin H
May 18, 2010
A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A May 18, 2010
by Anonymous
Oct 24, 2009
The first week after buying this car (brand new) Black exhaust was being shot back into my vehicle, the windows got stuck when i was putting them down. The Headliner started falling down, It was VERY bad on gas, It constantly overheated, It leaked oil. I took it to the shop to get it repaired and it cost me $1800 to get it completely repaired.Oct 24, 2009

1997 Volkswagen Passat Pricing

Original MSRP
$19,930 to $22,820
Price range
N/A
Average price on CG
N/A
YoY price change
N/A

Trims & specs

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

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: power

Roof

Moonroof: power · Roof rack color: black

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: 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

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 · Roof rack color: black

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

See all trims (4)