2016 Volkswagen Passat Review: A Refined Midsize Sedan with Key Upgrades

                              

Quick Verdict: The 2016 Volkswagen Passat delivers meaningful improvements in tech, safety, and fuel efficiency while retaining its spacious interior and engaging driving dynamics. Though styling updates are subtle, the added value keeps it competitive in the midsize sedan segment.

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What’s New for 2016?

The 2016 Volkswagen Passat receives several noteworthy updates that address previous shortcomings while enhancing its overall appeal:

• Technology Upgrade: New MIB II infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and improved responsiveness
• Safety Enhancements: Available forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and improved crash test ratings
• Fuel Economy Gains: 1.8T models see 1-2 mpg improvements thanks to aerodynamic and mechanical refinements
• Styling Refresh: Revised front and rear fascias with more contemporary details
• Value Additions: Backup camera and alloy wheels now standard across all trims
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Exterior Design: Subtle But Effective Changes

Volkswagen took a conservative approach to the Passat's mid-cycle refresh, focusing on refining rather than reinventing its design language:

• Revised front fascia with four-bar grille (up from three previously)
• Slimmer headlight clusters with available full-LED lighting
• More pronounced hood creases and doming for visual interest
• Redesigned rear bumper and trunk lid for a cleaner appearance
• Chrome accents now standard across all trim levels

The new R-Line trim adds sportier styling cues including 19-inch wheels, black accents, and more aggressive rocker panels. While the changes won't make the Passat stand out in a crowded parking lot, they successfully modernize its appearance without compromising its understated elegance.

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Performance and Driving Dynamics

The 2016 Passat retains the engaging driving character that has long set it apart from many midsize sedan competitors:

Engine Options

Engine	Horsepower	Torque	Transmission	EPA Fuel Economy
1.8L Turbo I4	170 hp	184 lb-ft	6-speed automatic	25/38/29 mpg (city/hwy/combined)
3.6L V6	280 hp	258 lb-ft	6-speed dual-clutch automatic	20/28/23 mpg

The turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder remains the sweet spot in the lineup, offering:

• Strong low-end torque for confident around-town driving
• Responsive throttle mapping that avoids turbo lag
• Improved highway passing power compared to many naturally aspirated competitors
• The available 3.6-liter VR6 delivers smooth, abundant power but comes with a significant fuel economy penalty. With the four-cylinder's torque advantage and the Passat's relatively light curb weight (3,252 lbs for the 1.8T), the V6 is hard to justify for most buyers.

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Ride and Handling

The Passat continues to strike an impressive balance between comfort and agility:

• Precise, well-weighted steering with good feedback
• Composed cornering with minimal body roll
• Firm but compliant suspension tuning (sportier than Camry/Accord)
• Progressive brake pedal feel with strong stopping power

Wheel size significantly affects ride quality. Models with the standard 16-inch wheels (now alloy instead of steel) offer the most compliant ride, while R-Line's 19-inch wheels transmit more road imperfections.

Interior: Roominess Refined

The Passat's cabin receives subtle but effective upgrades for 2016:

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Materials and Design

New chrome trim accents throughout the cabin

• Redesigned steering wheel with piano black and chrome details
• Textured dashboard trim strip for visual separation
• Improved soft-touch materials on frequently contacted surfaces

While some competitors have caught up in interior quality, the Passat still offers:

• One of the roomiest rear seats in the class (39.1 inches of legroom)
• Excellent outward visibility with a low beltline
• Available heated rear seats (SE with Technology and above)
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Technology and Infotainment

The 2016 model year brings the Passat's tech features up to modern standards with the new MIB II system:

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Key Upgrades          

• Smartphone Integration: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink support
• Improved Displays: Faster 6.3-inch touchscreen (SE and above) with proximity sensing
• Navigation Enhancements: Google-style single-field destination entry
• Connectivity: Device-agnostic USB port replaces previous Apple-only connector

The system represents a major leap forward from previous VW interfaces with:

• Faster processor for quicker response times
• Intuitive menu structure with logical organization
• Available Fender premium audio system (SEL trims)

Safety Features and Ratings

The 2016 Passat makes significant strides in safety technology and crash protection:

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Crash Test Performance

• IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating (when equipped with forward collision warning)
• Improved small overlap front crash test score (Good vs. previous Acceptable)
• 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating

Available Safety Technologies

• Forward Collision Warning: Standard on SE and above
• Automatic Emergency Braking: Works in both forward and reverse
• Blind Spot Monitoring: Available on SE with Technology
• Lane Departure Warning: SEL Premium only
• Post-Collision Braking: Standard on all models

While these features bring the Passat up to par with class leaders, some implementations could be improved:

Adaptive cruise control doesn't work below 12 mph

• Safety system settings require menu diving to adjust
• Lane keeping assist only available on top trim

Practical Considerations

Cargo and Storage

• 15.9 cubic foot trunk (competitive for the class)
• Standard 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Center pass-through available on SEL models
• Generous front door pockets and large glovebox

Fuel Economy Comparison

Model	Engine	Combined MPG
Passat 1.8T	1.8L Turbo I4	29
Mazda6	2.5L I4	32
Accord	2.4L I4	31
Malibu	1.5L Turbo I4	31

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2016 Passat lineup offers six well-defined trim levels:

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1.8T Models

• S ($23,260): Base model with 16" alloys, backup camera, 5" touchscreen
• R-Line ($24,765): Sport appearance package with 19" wheels
• SE ($26,765): Adds leatherette, 6.3" screen, keyless entry
• SE w/Technology ($28,765): Navigation, blind spot monitoring, heated rear seats
• SEL ($30,765): Leather, Fender audio, LED headlights
• SEL Premium ($33,765): Adaptive cruise, lane assist, premium features

V6 Model

• V6 SEL Premium ($36,765): Loaded with all features plus VR6 power

How It Compares to the Competition

The 2016 Passat holds its own against key rivals in several important areas:

Advantages

• More engaging driving dynamics than Camry or Accord
• Spacious rear seat outclasses Mazda6 and Fusion
• Superior base interior materials compared to Malibu or Sonata
• Traditional automatic transmission (vs. CVTs in many competitors)
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Tradeoffs

• Fuel economy trails class leaders by 2-3 mpg
• No available all-wheel drive (unlike Subaru Legacy or Ford Fusion)
• Some safety features only available on top trims

Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the 2016 Passat?

The 2016 Volkswagen Passat remains an excellent choice for buyers who prioritize:

• Engaging driving dynamics in a practical package
• Spacious, comfortable interior with premium touches
• Traditional automatic transmission operation
• Understated, mature styling

While it may not lead in any single category, the Passat's balanced approach and meaningful 2016 upgrades make it a compelling option in the midsize sedan segment. The addition of modern tech features and advanced safety systems address previous weaknesses while maintaining the model's core strengths.

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