The 2012 Volkswagen Passat marked a significant shift for the nameplate, aiming squarely at the heart of the American family sedan market. This mid-size sedan, offered in a four-door body style, debuted in 2011 as a 2012 model and ran through 2019. Key trims included the S, SE, SEL, and TDI (diesel). New, the pricing ranged from around $20,000 to $33,000. Its spacious rear seats, large trunk, and available fuel-efficient TDI engine made it a popular choice.
The Good
The 2012 Passat boasts a comfortable ride and spacious interior, appealing to practical buyers. The available TDI engine offers excellent fuel efficiency. Its understated, yet sophisticated design provides an emotional connection for those seeking a refined, reliable family sedan with a touch of European flair and strong value.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses include reports of oil consumption issues, particularly with the 2.5L engine. Some owners have also reported issues with the automatic transmission. The interior materials, while functional, may not feel as premium as some competitors. Electrical glitches and sensor malfunctions have also been reported. It's crucial to check the service history.
2012 Volkswagen Passat: Quick Overview
Key specs for the 2012 Volkswagen Passat:
- Engine Options:
- 2.5L Inline-5: 170 hp, 177 lb-ft of torque
- 2.0L TDI Diesel Inline-4: 140 hp, 236 lb-ft of torque
- 3.6L VR6: 280 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque
- Horsepower: Ranging from 140 hp to 280 hp, depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy:
- 2.5L: Up to 22 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- 2.0L TDI: Up to 31 mpg city / 43 mpg highway
- 3.6L VR6: Up to 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.5L: Around 8.2 seconds
- 2.0L TDI: Around 9.3 seconds
- 3.6L VR6: Around 6.4 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- S: Basic features include air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and locks, and a six-speaker audio system.
- SE: Adds features like alloy wheels, heated front seats, upgraded audio, and leatherette upholstery.
- SEL: Includes leather upholstery, navigation system, premium audio, and dual-zone climate control.
- TDI: Available in SE and SEL trims, offering the fuel-efficient diesel engine.
2012 Volkswagen Passat Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2012 |
Make | Volkswagen |
Model | Passat |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Sedan |
Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | United States |
Manufacturing City | WOLFSBURG |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | - |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 2.5-L I5 |
Engine Size | 2.5L |
Engine Cylinders | 5 |
Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | - |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
Invoice Price | - |
Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Volkswagen Passat Have?
The 2012 Volkswagen Passat has seen its share of reported problems and recalls. Frequently reported issues include excessive oil consumption, particularly with the 2.5L engine. Some owners have experienced problems with the automatic transmission, including rough shifting and premature failure. Electrical issues, such as malfunctioning sensors and faulty wiring, have also been noted. Recalls have addressed issues such as fuel pump failures, potentially leading to stalling, and problems with the side marker lights. Long-term reliability concerns often center around the longevity of the 2.5L engine and the potential for high repair costs associated with the DSG transmission in TDI models. Specific to the 2012 model year, some owners reported issues with the early production runs, suggesting a thorough inspection and detailed service history check before purchasing. It's advisable to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for the latest recall information and owner complaints.
How long will the 2012 Volkswagen Passat last?
With proper maintenance, a 2012 Volkswagen Passat can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, longevity heavily depends on consistent oil changes, timely repairs, and addressing known issues like oil consumption. Due to their age, potential buyers should expect that many examples will have surpassed 150,000 miles. Long-term durability can be affected by neglect; therefore, carefully inspecting its service record is essential. Weaknesses over time commonly involve suspension components, electrical systems, and the aforementioned engine and transmission concerns.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Volkswagen Passat offered a decent array of tech and safety features for its time. Standard on most trims was a six-speaker audio system with a CD player and auxiliary input. Higher trims featured an upgraded sound system, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity. Driver-assistance features were relatively limited compared to modern vehicles but included options like parking sensors. Safety features included standard antilock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Optional features included a rearview camera. The 2012 Passat received strong crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. The NHTSA gave it a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick. The base S trim was quite basic in terms of tech. Moving up to the SE and SEL trims added features like a touchscreen interface, satellite radio, and keyless entry. No advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning were available. The infotainment system, while functional, could feel dated compared to newer systems.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Candy White
Reflex Silver Metallic
Black Uni
Night Blue Metallic
Fortana Red Metallic
Platinum Gray Metallic
Interior Colors
Titan Black
Cornsilk Beige
Moonrock Gray
2012 Volkswagen Passat Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2012 Volkswagen Passat ranged from approximately $20,000 for the base S trim to around $33,000 for a fully loaded VR6 SEL model. As of late 2024, used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $12,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. The Passat has experienced significant depreciation, which makes it an affordable used car option. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, maintenance history, mileage, and whether it's a desirable trim level (like the TDI). Models with the VR6 engine tend to hold slightly more value due to their performance appeal.
2012 Volkswagen Passat Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 2012 Volkswagen Passat are generally average for its class. Fuel costs vary depending on the engine, with the TDI diesel being the most economical. Maintenance can be moderate, but unexpected repairs, particularly those related to the engine or transmission, can be costly. Long-term ownership costs are generally moderate if the vehicle is well-maintained. Neglecting maintenance can quickly escalate costs. Overall, it can be an economical car if you prioritize the TDI model and keep up with maintenance.
2012 Volkswagen Passat Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
25 gallons
City Mileage
22 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
31 miles/gallon
2012 Volkswagen Passat Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Volkswagen Passat Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Diesel
Recall date
2012-04-05
Recall no.
12v146000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012 Passat Vehicles, Manufactured From January 18, 2011, Through June 1, 2011. During Assembly, These Vehicles Were Built With A Diesel Fuel Filter Element That MAY NOT Seal Correctly.
Consequence
Over Time, or After Certain Driving Distances, These Vehicles ARE Susceptible TO Fuel Leakage. Leaking Fuel, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, MAY Lead TO A Fire.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Diesel Fuel Filter Elements, Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON April 27, 2012. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen AT 1-800-822-8987.
Notes
Volkswagen?s Safety Recall Number IS 20r7/W3.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?s Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2014-03-17
Recall no.
14v125000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012-2013 Passat Vehicles Manufactured January 2011 Through November 2012. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Low Beam Headlight Bulb MAY Become Loose and Lose Electrical Contact.
Consequence
A Loss OF Low Beam Headlights MAY Reduce THE Driver's Visibility and Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen Notified Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Bulb Holder, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began IN MAY 2014. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen AT 1-800-822-8987. Volkswagens Recall Number Associated With This Campaign IS 94g8/7v.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2016-02-10
Recall no.
16v078000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2014 Golf, 2007-2010 Passat Sedans and Wagon, 2012-2014 Passat Sedan and Eos, 2009-2014 CC, 2009-2012 Audi Q5, 2010-2012 S5 Cabriolet and 2010-2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet Vehicles. Upon Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, Excessive Internal Pressure MAY Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's Frontal AIR BAG Inflators, Free OF Charge. Volkswagen Issued AN Interim Notification TO Owners ON April 12, 2016, and Will Send A Second Notification When Parts ARE Available. Volkswagen Will Notify Owners Again Once Parts ARE Available. Volkswagen Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Audi Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date
2015-08-04
Recall no.
15v483000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2014 Volkswagen CC, and Passat, 2010-2013 Eos, 2011-2014 Golf, Gti, Jetta, and Tiguan, and 2012-2014 Jetta Sportwagen Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Debris MAY Contaminate THE AIR BAG Clock Spring, A Spiral Wound, Flat Cable That Keeps THE AIR BAG Powered While THE Steering Wheel IS Being Turned. This Contamination MAY Tear THE Cable and Result IN A Loss OF Electrical Connection TO THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag.
Consequence
A Loss OF Electrical Connection TO THE Driver's Frontal AIR BAG Will Prevent THE AIR BAG From Deploying IN THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install A Protective Cover Over THE Steering Wheel Clock Spring IF THE AIR BAG Light IS Off. IF THE Airbag Light IS ON and THE Steering Wheel Clock Spring Requires Replacement, Dealers Will Install A NEW Steering Wheel Clock Spring. These Repairs Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON January 15, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-822-8987.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:wiring
Recall date
2016-03-24
Recall no.
16v171000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2012-2014 Passat Vehicles Equipped With TDI Engines. DUE TO Improperly Assembled Wire Seals IN A Connector FOR AN Underbody Sensor, Water MAY Enter and Corrode THE Electrical Connectors OF THE Sensor, Causing AN Electrical Short.
Consequence
AN Electrical Short CAN Cause THE Electrical Connectors OF THE Sensor TO Overheat, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Connector, Replacing IT AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began IN September. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 23t3.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:diesel
Recall date
2017-05-11
Recall no.
17v309000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2012-2014 Passat Vehicles, Equipped With Diesel Engines and Direct-Shift Transmissions (Dsg). THE Vehicle's Underbody Heat Shield MAY NOT BE Long Enough TO Protect THE Right Half-shaft Grease Boot From Heat, Potentially Resulting IN A Grease Leak.
Consequence
IF THE Leaking Grease Contacts A Heated Surface, Such AS THE Exhaust System And/Or THE Diesel Particulate Filter (Dpf), IT Could Increase THE Risk OF Fire.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driveshaft Heat Shield, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 7, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 23w5.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Power Train:driveline:driveshaft
Recall date
2017-05-11
Recall no.
17v309000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2012-2014 Passat Vehicles, Equipped With Diesel Engines and Direct-Shift Transmissions (Dsg). THE Vehicle's Underbody Heat Shield MAY NOT BE Long Enough TO Protect THE Right Half-shaft Grease Boot From Heat, Potentially Resulting IN A Grease Leak.
Consequence
IF THE Leaking Grease Contacts A Heated Surface, Such AS THE Exhaust System And/Or THE Diesel Particulate Filter (Dpf), IT Could Increase THE Risk OF Fire.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driveshaft Heat Shield, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 7, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 23w5.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Unknown or Other
Recall date
2018-05-16
Recall no.
18v329000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2012-2016 Eos, 2012 Passat, 2012-2016 CC, 2015-2016 E-golf, 2011-2015 Touareg, 2012-2015 and 2017 Tiguan, and 2011-2016 Golf and 2011-2013 GTI Vehicles. Modifications Made While THE Vehicles Were IN AN Internal Evaluation Period MAY Cause THE Affected Vehicles TO NOT Comply With All OF THE Applicable Regulatory Requirements.
Consequence
IF THE Vehicles DO NOT Meet All Regulatory Requirements, There Could BE AN Increased Risk OF A Crash, Fire, or Injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Repair THE Vehicles TO Make Them Fully Compliant or Volkswagen Will Repurchase Them IF Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began November 29, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2018-03-06
Recall no.
18v148000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2014 Volkswagen CC, 2010-2014 Golf, 2010-2014 Eos, 2007-2010 Passat Sedan and Wagon, and 2012-2014 Passat Vehicles. Upon Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, Excessive Internal Pressure MAY Cause THE Inflator TO Explode.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Driver's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Explode With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's Frontal AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternative Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 16, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 69q9. Note: This Recall Partially Supersedes Recall 16v-078.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2019-05-22
Recall no.
19v389000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2012-2020 Volkswagen Passat and 2018-2019 Atlas Vehicles. THE Blocking CAP Disabling THE Adjustment OF THE Headlight's Horizontal AIM MAY NOT Have Been Installed. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Without THE Blocking Cap, THE Headlight AIM CAN BE Adjusted OUT OF Specification, Reducing Visibility and Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect And, AS Necessary, Block THE Headlight Horizontal Adjustment, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 16, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 94l9.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2019-12-04
Recall no.
19v862000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2012-2015 Passat, 2011-2014 Golf A6, and 2011-2013 Audi A3 Diesel Vehicles, Thought TO Have Been Previously Repaired Under ONE OF THE Takata AIR BAG Recalls. THE Driver's Side AIR BAG Inflator MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence
AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's Side AIR BAG Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began December 20, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298 or Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE 69r6, 69q8, 69q9, and 69y5.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2024-10-30
Recall no.
24v834000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2017-2019 Beetle, Beetle Convertible, 2012-2014 Passat, 2017 Passat Wagon, and 2006-2007 Passat Sedan Vehicles. THE Driver's Side Frontal AIR BAG Inflator MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence
AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's Side Front AIR BAG Module, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed December 4, 2024. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE 69eg, 69gq, and 69e6.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153) or GO TO Nhtsa.gov.
2012 Volkswagen Passat Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 Volkswagen Passat is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Volkswagen Passat Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2012 Volkswagen Passat competed against the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, and Chevrolet Malibu. In terms of performance, the Passat's VR6 engine offered a competitive edge, while the TDI provided superior fuel economy compared to most rivals' gasoline engines. The Camry and Accord generally had better reputations for long-term reliability. Feature-wise, the Passat was generally competitive, but some rivals offered more advanced tech features even back then. Pricewise, the Passat was positioned similarly to its competitors. The Ford Fusion offered a more stylish design and available hybrid powertrain. The Chevrolet Malibu offered a comfortable ride, but its reliability was also a concern. The Hyundai Sonata provided a strong value proposition with a long warranty. The Toyota Camry remains a solid choice for buyers prioritizing reliability. The Honda Accord is a strong alternative offering a balance of performance, reliability, and features. If reliability is paramount, the Camry or Accord are better choices, while the Fusion offers a more engaging driving experience. The Passat's strength lies in its spaciousness and available TDI engine.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Volkswagen Passat a Good Sedan?
The 2012 Volkswagen Passat is ideal for buyers seeking a spacious and comfortable mid-size sedan at an affordable price point. It's worth buying *used* if found in good condition with a comprehensive maintenance history. The TDI models offer excellent fuel economy and are desirable, but require careful inspection of the DSG transmission. The 2.5L engine models are more common but require scrutiny for oil consumption. Avoid examples with significant deferred maintenance. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended due to the potential for costly repairs. For budget-conscious buyers needing a roomy sedan, the 2012 Passat can be a reasonable option, but only if it passes a thorough inspection.