1996 Volkswagen Passat Wagon
Fuel Economy Overview
The 1996 Volkswagen Passat Wagon achieves an EPA-estimated 19 MPG in combined city and highway driving, with 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. Powered by a 2.8L 6-cylinder engine paired with a manual 5-spd, this midsize-large station wagons features Front-Wheel Drive drive.
In terms of environmental impact, the 1996 Passat Wagon produces approximately 468 grams of CO2 per mile. This figure is measured under standardized EPA test conditions and represents tailpipe emissions only. For context, the average new vehicle sold in the United States produces approximately 400 grams of CO2 per mile, meaning this Passat Wagon has higher-than-average emissions in this regard.
The estimated annual fuel cost for this vehicle is $3,150, based on 15,000 miles of driving per year and current national average fuel prices. Compared to the average new vehicle, you would save $5,000 over a 5-year period. This calculation accounts for differences in fuel consumption efficiency and provides a practical measure of long-term ownership costs attributable to fuel economy.
Energy DNA
Green Scorecard
Personalized Commute CalculatorEPA defaults to 55% City / 45% Hwy
Adjust the slider to match your daily driving habits. City driving involves stop-and-go traffic under 45mph, while highway driving represents sustained speeds over 55mph.
Aerodynamic Speed Penalty
EPA highway tests average roughly 48 mph. Driving at 75 mph increases aerodynamic drag exponentially. Expect your real-world highway fuel economy to drop by roughly 15-20% at interstate speeds.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Recall Intelligence
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE ELECTRICAL PORTION OF THE IGNITION SWITCH ASSEMBLY CAN FAIL CAUSING THE HEADLIGHTS AND WINDSHIELD WIPERS TO BECOME INOPERATIVE.
Consequence & Remedy
Consequence: IF SUCH FAILURES OCCUR WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN USE AT NIGHT OR IN RAINY OR SNOWY WEATHER, A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ELECTRICAL PART OF THE IGNITION SWITCH ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 20, 2002. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VWOA AT 1-800-822-8987.
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Looking for comprehensive historical data?
NHTSA FARS (Fatal Crash History) and broader generational safety trends are aggregated at the model level rather than by specific engine configurations. View the complete historical data profile for all Volkswagen Passat Wagon configurations.
Similar 1996 Midsize-Large Station Wagons Alternatives
1996 Honda Odyssey
2.2L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
1996 Isuzu Oasis
2.2L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
1996 Volvo 850 Wagon
2.3L 5-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
1996 Buick Roadmaster Wagon
5.7L 8-cyl Rear-Wheel Drive
1996 Chevrolet Caprice/Impala Wagon
5.7L 8-cyl Rear-Wheel Drive
1996 Eagle Summit Wagon
2.4L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Cost Analysis
Based on 15,000 miles/year and current fuel prices.
Efficiency Breakdown
Estimated Lifetime Carbon Footprint
(Based on 200,000 miles driven)