Standout Trims
1996 HIGHLIGHTS
Full History Report
Buying a 1996 Volkswagen Passat?
1 recall has been issued for this model year. Check its history before you buy.
A vehicle history report shows accidents, ownership history, and service records.
Powered by EpicVIN
Affiliate link. We may earn a commission.
Trim Levels
ALL 1996 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT TRIMS
| Trim | Body | Engine | MPG | HP | Seats | MSRP | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TDiTop Rated | Sedan | 1.9L | 35 | 90 | — | — | MyCar Score™67 | Look Up VIN |
| TDi | Wagon | 1.9L | 35 | 90 | — | — | MyCar Score™67 | Look Up VIN |
| GLX V6 | Sedan | 2.8L | 19 | 172 | — | — | MyCar Score™64.9 | Look Up VIN |
| GLX V6 | Wagon | 2.8L | 19 | 172 | — | — | MyCar Score™64.9 | Look Up VIN |
| GLS | Sedan | 2L | 21 | 115 | — | — | MyCar Score™64.4 | Look Up VIN |
At a Glance
KEY SPECS
Body Type
Sedan, Wagon
MPG Range
19–35 MPG
HP Range
90–172 HP
Fuel Type
diesel fuel
Drive Type
front wheel drive
Dimensions & Comfort
SPACE & COMFORT
Based on the top-rated 1996 Passat trim.
Exterior Dimensions
Length
181.5 in
Width
67.5 in
Height
56.4 in
Wheelbase
103.3 in
Interior Dimensions
Front Headroom
37.8 in
Front Legroom
45.1 in
Rear Headroom
36.6 in
Rear Legroom
37 in
Cargo & Capacity
Cargo Space
14.4 cu ft
Curb Weight
3,097 lbs
Safety & Warranty
PROTECTION & COVERAGE
Safety Ratings
1996 Volkswagen Passat 4-DR.
NHTSA Overall
Not tested by NHTSAFrontal Crash
Not tested by NHTSASide Crash
Not tested by NHTSASide Pole
Not tested by NHTSARollover
Not tested by NHTSAOpen Recalls
1 recall
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program. nhtsa.gov/ratings
Family & Safety
IS THIS A GOOD FAMILY CAR?
Rear Seat Space
Rear headroom: 36.6″
Rear legroom: 37″
Car Seat Usability
Always have car seat installation checked by a certified technician. Find an inspection station near you →
LATCH System
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) is required on all US vehicles from 2003 onward.
Check owner's manual for LATCH anchor availability.
Cargo & Stroller Space
14.4 cu ft
Fits most compact strollers
Common Questions
1996 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT FAQ
How many recalls does a 1996 Volkswagen Passat have?▾
The 1996 Volkswagen Passat has 1 recall on record with NHTSA. Always verify current recall status at nhtsa.gov before purchasing.
What is the fuel economy of a 1996 Volkswagen Passat?▾
The 1996 Volkswagen Passat gets 19–35 MPG combined depending on trim level and drivetrain configuration.
What is the best 1996 Volkswagen Passat trim to buy used?▾
Based on MyCar Score™ ratings, the TDi trim scores highest at 67 out of 100, balancing value, fuel economy, and specifications.
Is the 1996 Volkswagen Passat a good used car?▾
The 1996 Volkswagen Passat has an average MyCar Score™ of 66 out of 100. MyCar Score™ weighs NHTSA safety ratings, recall history, fuel economy, and value. This is a competitive score for the segment.
Other Passat Years
Other Volkswagen Models