Volkswagen PASSAT
6,599 registered in New Zealand · 1977–2024 · 97% from Germany
The Volkswagen PASSAT is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 6,599 registered across model years 1977 to 2024. It averages 7.3 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 143 kW. Most are petrol-powered station wagons with a 2.0L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the PASSAT.
Fuel Types
Volkswagen PASSAT fuel type breakdown: PETROL 66%, DIESEL 33%, PLUGIN PETROL HYBRID 1%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Volkswagen PASSAT vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Volkswagen PASSAT fleet age profile: 2019: 44, 2021: 123, 2022: 110, 2023: 52, 2024: 37.
Drivetrain
Transmission
Volkswagen PASSAT transmissions: 6-GEAR AUTO 36%, 7-GEAR AUTO 17%, 5-GEAR AUTO 3%, 6-GEAR MANUAL 2%, 5-GEAR MANUAL 0%.
Engine Size
Volkswagen PASSAT engine sizes: 2.0L 32%, 1.8L 10%, 2.0L 9%, 2.0L 7%, 3.2L 6%.
Imported From
Volkswagen PASSAT imported from: Germany 97%, Japan 3%, United Kingdom 0%, Not Known 0%, Other 0%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Volkswagen PASSAT vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Volkswagen PASSAT NZ arrival timeline: 2022: 315, 2023: 155, 2024: 83, 2025: 20, 2026: 2.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Volkswagen PASSAT.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Volkswagen PASSAT regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 2,305, CHRISTCHURCH: 630, TAURANGA: 276, WELLINGTON: 262, HAMILTON: 218.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Volkswagen PASSAT are there in New Zealand?
There are 6,599 Volkswagen PASSAT vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0.2% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1977 to 2024.
How much does it cost to run a Volkswagen PASSAT?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Volkswagen PASSAT averages 7.3 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $57 per week or $2,987 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Volkswagen PASSAT?
The Volkswagen PASSAT is primarily classified as a station wagon in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: saloon, hatchback, sports car. The most common fuel type is petrol.
Are Volkswagen PASSAT cars imported or NZ-new?
97% of Volkswagen PASSAT vehicles in New Zealand originated from Germany. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.