Overview

The 2006-2008 Volkswagen Passat, designated internally as the B6 generation, represented a significant departure from its predecessor. Moving away from the shared platform architecture used by the B5, this generation transitioned to a transverse engine layout based on the PQ46 platform. This engineering change allowed for increased interior volume and improved crash safety performance, positioning the Passat as a premium-leaning contender in the competitive midsize sedan segment.

Marketed in the United States with a focus on European driving dynamics and upscale interior appointments, the B6 Passat was manufactured primarily in Zwickau and Emden, Germany. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine became the volume-selling powertrain, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and mid-range torque. During this period, Volkswagen aimed to bridge the gap between mass-market family sedans and entry-level luxury vehicles, utilizing high-quality cabin materials and a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension setup.

The B6 generation remained in production until the 2010 model year, when it was eventually replaced by the NMS (New Midsize Sedan) platform specifically developed for the North American market. Today, the 2006-2008 models are recognized for their refined road manners and ergonomic cabin design, though they require diligent maintenance to ensure long-term mechanical health.

Vehicle Overview
Brand Volkswagen
Model Passat
Model Year 2006-2008
Generation B6
Trim Value Edition / 2.0T
Body Style Sedan
Vehicle Segment D-Segment
Vehicle Class Midsize Cars
Market USA
Platform PQ46
Assembly Plant Zwickau, Germany
Country of Origin Germany
Production Start 2005
Production End 2010
VIN Identifier WVW
Base MSRP $23,000
Destination Charge $630
Total MSRP $23,630
Powertrain
Powertrain Type Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family EA113
Engine Name 2.0L TSI/FSI
Engine Code BPY
Engine Configuration Inline-4
Displacement 2.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke 82.5 mm x 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio 10.5:1
Aspiration Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery Direct Injection
Valve Train DOHC 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity 4.9 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity VW 502 00 / 5W-40
Horsepower 200 hp @ 5100 rpm
Torque 207 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
Redline 6500 rpm
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission Manual 6-spd
Final Drive Ratio 3.65:1
Axle Ratio
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type Premium Gasoline
Recommended Octane 91 AKI
EPA City MPG 21
EPA Highway MPG 29
EPA Combined MPG 24
Fuel Economy (L/100 km) 9.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) 18.5
Estimated Driving Range 444 miles
Annual Fuel Cost $2,100
CO₂ Emissions 370 g/mile
Greenhouse Gas Score 5
Smog Rating 6
Performance
0-30 mph 2.6 s
0-60 mph 6.7 s
0-100 mph 18.2 s
Quarter Mile 15.2 s
Top Speed 130 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph) 128 ft
Lateral Acceleration 0.82g
Power-to-Weight Ratio 0.06 hp/lb
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in) 188.2
Width (Without Mirrors) (in) 71.7
Width (With Mirrors) (in) 81.5
Height (in) 58.0
Wheelbase (in) 106.7
Front Track (in) 61.2
Rear Track (in) 61.1
Ground Clearance (in) 5.0
Curb Weight (lbs) 3300
GVWR (lbs) 4400
Towing Capacity (lbs)
Payload Capacity (lbs) 1100
Passenger Volume (cu ft) 96
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) 14.2
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)
Turning Circle 36.7 ft
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash 5 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash 5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover 4 Stars
IIHS Award Top Safety Pick
Small Overlap Front
Moderate Overlap Front Good
Side Impact Good
Headlights Rating
Front Crash Prevention
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display
Instrument Cluster Analog with Multi-Function Display
Apple CarPlay No
Android Auto No
Navigation System Optional
Audio System 8-Speaker Premium
Speaker Count 8
Wireless Charging No
Wi-Fi Hotspot No
OTA Updates No
Digital Key No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty 4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty 5 years / 60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty 12 years / Unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance 4 years / 50,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant Gyor, Hungary
Transmission Supplier Volkswagen
Gear Ratios 1st: 3.77, 2nd: 2.09, 3rd: 1.32, 4th: 0.98, 5th: 0.76, 6th: 0.64
Differential Type Open
Cooling System Capacity 8.5 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs) 165
Safety Recall Count
Production Volume
Units Sold in USA

## Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The 2006-2008 Passat is widely regarded for its sophisticated driving dynamics and interior quality, which often surpassed contemporary Japanese competitors. However, long-term reliability is heavily dependent on strict adherence to maintenance schedules. Common issues include failure of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower, electronic parking brake malfunctions, and electrical gremlins related to the steering column lock module. In the current used market, these vehicles offer significant value for those seeking a premium European driving experience at a low price point, provided the buyer allocates a budget for potential repairs. Prospective owners should prioritize examples with documented service history, specifically regarding timing belt or chain tensioner updates and oil change intervals, as the turbocharged engine is sensitive to lubrication neglect.

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