Volkswagen Passat SEL Premium V6
The 2018 Volkswagen Passat SEL Premium V6 midsize sedan produces 280 horsepower with a fuel economy of 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Written by Tiffany Leung
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
The Volkswagen Passat is a midsize sedan available with a V6 engine in the SEL Premium trim. This turbocharged car produces 280 horsepower and can get from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds.
The Passat may have a more mature look with its squared-off design, but its V6 models seamlessly elevate the driving experience. Armed with popular technology, a spacious cabin, and roomy trunk space, the Passat is ready to contend for the perfect midsize sedan.
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in a flash!)2018 Volkswagen Passat SEL Premium V6
Starting price: $32,545
Engine: 3.5L V6
Horsepower: 280 hp at 6200 rpm
Torque: 258 lb-ft at 2500 rpm
0 to 60: 5.7 seconds
The 2018 Volkswagen Passat is available with a V6 alternative across two trim options. Each trim is only available in front-wheel drive, unlike competitors in the same class who also offer all-wheel drive. The Passat is offered in six colors from Pure White to Tourmaline Blue Metallic.
While the Passat may look unassuming, it offers a controlled and reliable ride, has great fuel efficiency, and has a lot of room for passengers and cargo. The interior is timeless, with comfortable and supportive seats sporting real leather when you opt for the SEL Premium model. The top trim levels also provide rear-seat warmers to keep all passengers toasty on cold days.
Other standout features of the Passat V6 include:
- MIB II infotainment system: This feature integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard on all trims (excluding the base). The controls are pleasantly intuitive and reliable compared to the previous setup.
- Dual-zone climate control: Passat’s dual-zone climate control system makes it easy to optimize comfort on each side of the car.
- Car-Net Security and Service system: This feature is available on the SE model or above. It gives Passat owners remote access to their car.
How’s the fuel economy?
The Passat is often said to have surprising fuel efficiency (in a good way). Of course, fuel efficiency still suffers on V6 models. The V6 trim options—the SEL Premium and GT—both get 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
The other non-V6 Passat trims have a much better fuel economy of 25 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
Which Volkswagen Passat models have the V6?
You can find the V6 engine in two trims that are offered: SEL Premium and GT. The base trim is the most economical, starting at $23,890, but the price increases to $32,545 for the SEL Premium and $30,040 for the GT.
How fast is the Volkswagen Passat V6?
The Passat SEL Premium with a V6 engine can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds—just ahead of its I-4 engine counterpart with a 0-60 time of 8.1 to 8.4 seconds.
The Passat V6’s performance isn’t out of the ordinary, but it would not keep up with most competitors. Below are the 0-60 times for comparable midsize sedans from the same model year:
Key Takeaway The V6 engine of the Volkswagen Passat amps up the power and speed, but not enough to outrun its competitors. The fuel economy is also not the best when the Passat runs with a V6 engine.
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Which is better: Passat SEL Premium or GT?
Choosing between the SEL Premium and GT trims can be difficult when the price difference is less than $2,000.
For those who enjoy the cream of the crop, getting the SEL Premium is an easy choice. On top of the powerful V6 engine, this model also comes with adaptive cruise control, app-connect, and Car-Net Security and Service system. However, the SEL Premium only comes with 18-inch wheels.
On the other hand, if your focus is performance and visual aesthetics, the limited-run GT model is a perfect fit. The car will only come with basic cruise control and you lose the Car-Net Security and Service system. However, the GT has the same V6 engine as the SEL Premium, with a sportier look.
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How to find affordable Volkswagen Passat insurance
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Reviewed on 5/28/2023
FAQs
Does the Passat come in V6?
Yes, the 2018 Volkswagen Passat comes with a V6 option in two trims: SEL Premium and GT.
Are V6 Passats reliable?
J.D. Power gives the 2018 Volkswagen Passat a rating of 3 out of 5 stars for reliability, which is average.
Does the 2018 Passat have AWD?
The 2018 Passat does not offer all-wheel drive on any trims.
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