The official debut took place at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show, with cars hitting dealerships across the US that same year. This was the first Passat built on a transverse-engine platform shared with the Golf (PQ46, an extended version of the PQ35 from the Golf V). The wheelbase grew to 106.7 inches, making the interior one of the roomiest in the D-segment, while the sedan trunk expanded to a class-leading 20 cubic feet. Designed under Murat Günak, it featured a chrome grille, slim headlights, and flowing lines — the Volkswagen Passat 2005–2010 looked noticeably more upscale and still holds up visually today. Available in sedan and wagon (Variant) body styles, the wagon has always been a favorite among practical American buyers.
What’s new compared to the previous generation (B5/B5.5)
| Parameter | Passat B5/B5.5 (1996–2005) | Passat B6 (2005–2010) |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Longitudinal (shared with Audi A4) | Transverse PQ46 (shared with Golf V) |
| Wheelbase | 106.4 inches | 106.7 inches |
| Trunk sedan / wagon | 15 / 53 cu ft | 20 / 61 cu ft |
| Engines | Mostly naturally aspirated + pump-injector TDI | TSI and Common Rail TDI |
| Transmissions | 5/6-speed manual, 5-speed Tiptronic auto | 6-speed manual, 6-speed auto, DSG-6/7 |
| Safety Euro NCAP | 4 stars | 5 stars |
The Volkswagen Passat sixth generation became noticeably quieter (noise reduction improved by 6–8 dB), more comfortable, fuel-efficient, and safer. New features included dual-zone climate control, adaptive xenon headlights, front and rear parking sensors, power tailgate (on wagons), and many other options that were rare on the B5.
US Used Market (December 2025)
On the US used market, the Volkswagen Passat B6 remains a solid budget choice in the midsize segment. Listings on sites like Cars.com, Autotrader, and Craigslist typically show several hundred examples available nationwide.
- Wagons make up about 20–25% of listings
- Most are original US-spec cars, with some gray-market European imports
- Popular engines: 2.0T turbo gasoline (200 hp) and occasional 3.6L VR6
Approximate market price range for the United States (December 2025):
- 2005–2006, 2.0T base, manual — $2,500–$4,000
- 2007–2009, 2.0T, automatic — $3,500–$5,500
- 2010, higher trim, leather, sunroof — $4,500–$6,500
Average price for a solid example with 140,000–180,000 miles — $4,000–$5,000.
Main trims and options on the US market
Key trims available in the US included:
- Value Edition/2.0T base: A/C, cloth seats, 16" steel wheels, stability control, 6 airbags, power package, CD audio.
- Lux/Komfort: Dual-zone climate, cruise control, 17" alloy wheels, rain/light sensors, multifunction steering wheel.
- Luxury/Highline: Leather or Alcantara interior, xenon lights, front/rear park sensors, power seats, navigation, panoramic roof (wagon).
Most sought-after used examples are mid-to-high trims with the 2.0T engine and automatic or DSG transmission.
Bottom line: Who should consider a Passat B6 in 2025–2026
The Volkswagen Passat B6 is a great fit for:
- Families — massive wagon cargo space (up to 61 cu ft) and generous rear legroom
- Highway commuters — efficient and torquey 2.0T engine plus excellent sound insulation
- Anyone wanting German engineering on a budget
Key things to check when buying:
- DSG transmission condition (DQ250) — fluid changed every 40,000 miles?
- Timing chain and turbo on 2.0T models
- Rust — especially on cars from salt-belt states
- Carbon buildup on direct-injection engines
- Mileage and service records — prioritize cars with documented history
If you find a well-maintained example, the Volkswagen Passat 2005–2010 can easily go another 200,000+ miles while staying comfortable, reliable, and inexpensive to run. In 2025, it still offers outstanding value for space, quality, and driving enjoyment in its class.
