Varies by model and engine, typically 3300-3700 lbs (1497-1678 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
IIHS Front Offset Impact:
Acceptable
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags standard, optional side airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette player, optional premium sound system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Connectivity
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil used, consult manual for specifics)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000-105,000 miles (96,000-169,000 km) for VR6, and every 90,000-100,000 miles (145,000-160,000 km) for 1.8T (critical maintenance item)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec Vr6:
SAE 5W-40, VW 502 00 specification (synthetic)
Engine Oil Spec 1.8T:
SAE 5W-40, VW 502 00 specification (synthetic)
Coolant Type:
G 12 (Pink) or G 12 Plus (Purple) Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate mixed with distilled water
Known Issues
Common Issue Ignition Coils:
Failure of ignition coils (especially on VR6) leading to misfires.
Failure of the timing belt tensioner and idler pulleys can lead to premature belt failure.
Common Issue Mass Airflow Sensor:
Clogging or failure of the Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor on 1.8T models.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand History:
Volkswagen AG is a German automaker founded in 1937, known for its iconic Beetle and its focus on engineering and quality.
Model Evolution
Passat Generation B5 Introduction:
The B5 Passat, introduced in 1996 (for the 1997 model year in Europe), represented a significant leap forward in design, technology, and refinement over its predecessor.
B5 Facelift:
A significant facelift (often referred to as B5.5) was introduced for the 2001 model year, with styling and feature updates.
Production
Production Location:
Emden, Germany; Puebla, Mexico
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Award:
Car and Driver magazine's '10Best' list multiple times, including for the 1998 and 1999 model years.