The midsize sedan segment is one of the most fiercely competitive markets in the automotive industry. Unfortunately, the 2022 Volkswagen Passat, once a popular contender, has recently fallen to the bottom of the pack due to several drawbacks. Despite Volkswagen’s reputation for quality and reliability, the 2022 Passat faces intense competition from rivals like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Hyundai Sonata. In this article, we will explore the four main drawbacks that have contributed to the Passat’s decline in the segment.

The exterior of the 2022 Passat is boring

One of the significant drawbacks of the 2022 Volkswagen Passat is its bland exterior looks. While Volkswagen has always been known for its distinctive designs, the latest Passat model needs to be revised. As a result, the car’s exterior lacks the eye-catching details and unique features that make other midsize sedans stand out.

Instead, the Passat has a generic and uninspired look that fails to make a lasting impression. This lack of visual appeal is slightly better with the new exclusive green paint for the 2022 model that Car and Driver dives into. However, with no redesign coming, it is rather disappointing.

2022 Passat interior leaves a lot to be desired

The 2022 Volkswagen Passat has received criticism for its lackluster interior design and small touchscreen display. While the Passat offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, the overall style of the interior falls short of the competition. In addition, the dashboard layout feels dated, with plain and unimpressive design elements.

Additionally, the small touchscreen display looks outdated and does not offer the intuitive user experience that modern drivers have come to expect. Despite the Passat’s reliability and impressive performance, its interior design and technology features may leave some drivers underwhelmed.

The Passat drivetrain lacks power

The 2022 Passat has unenthusiastic acceleration and sluggish shifting transmission, which hinders its overall performance. While the Passat boasts a reliable and sturdy build, it falls short of delivering an exciting driving experience. In addition, the acceleration feels lackluster, with a slow and unresponsive feel that can make it difficult to merge onto highways or pass other vehicles.

Furthermore, the transmission’s shifting could be more active and coordinated. It causes delays and jerky movements that detract from the driving experience. For drivers seeking a vehicle that delivers a thrilling performance, the 2022 Volkswagen Passat lacks enthusiasm and may leave them feeling underwhelmed.

2022 Passat fuel efficiency

The 2022 Volkswagen Passat has received criticism for its lackluster fuel efficiency, which falls short of its competitors in the midsize sedan market. The Passat’s EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 24 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway are underwhelming compared to other vehicles in its class. Moreover, while the Passat offers a reliable and sturdy build, its fuel efficiency does not deliver the same level of performance as other sedans.

The Passat’s fuel efficiency may be a significant drawback for drivers looking for a vehicle with better gas mileage. Despite its spacious interior and comfortable ride, the Passat’s fuel efficiency may deter drivers looking to maximize their fuel savings.

Is Volkswagen still making the Passat?

In conclusion, the 2022 Volkswagen Passat faces stiff competition in the midsize sedan segment. The sedan needs to catch up due to its drawbacks, but isn’t getting a new model. The car’s boring exterior design, lackluster interior, unenthusiastic acceleration, and below-average fuel efficiency have contributed to its decline in the market.

While the Passat offers a reliable and sturdy build with impressive performance, these drawbacks have made it difficult for the car to stand out among its rivals. There may be better options for drivers seeking a midsize sedan that offers more exciting features than the Passat. However, those that want a Passat will need to pick one up soon as they are no longer produced past the 2022 model year.