The Volkswagen Passat B7 (Type 3C) is technically a heavy facelift of the B6 rather than an entirely new generation. It utilizes the same PQ46 platform but features entirely redesigned body panels (except the roof and glasshouse), a significantly upgraded interior with better sound deadening, and updated technology. While it excels in comfort, build quality, and practicality (especially the Variant/Estate), its petrol engine lineup from this era is infamous for severe reliability issues, specifically concerning the EA888 Gen 2 engines and the DQ200 dry-clutch DSG transmission. Note: In North America and China, Volkswagen sold the Passat NMS (New Midsize Sedan), a larger, cheaper-to-build vehicle on an extended PQ46 platform, which featured different base engines like the 2.5L inline-5.
The Volkswagen Passat B7 is a tale of two cars. If you buy a 2.0 TDI with a manual gearbox or the wet-clutch DSG6, you are getting one of the best, most comfortable, and capable long-distance cruisers of its era. However, if you are looking for a petrol engine, extreme caution is advised. The 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TSI (EA888 Gen 2) are plagued by fatal design flaws regarding piston rings and timing chain tensioners. Unless you have documented proof that the engine has been fully rebuilt with revised parts, these petrol models should be strictly avoided. The US-market 2.5 MPI is the only truly bulletproof petrol option, though it is not available in Europe. Always avoid the 1.4 TSI Twincharger and be highly skeptical of the 7-speed dry DSG (DQ200).