2016 Volkswagen Passat (North America, A33) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 2016 Volkswagen Passat A33 ranges from 1480 kg to 1620 kg (approximately 3260 to 3570 lbs). This variation depends on the trim level and optional equipment. The maximum gross vehicle weight (GVWR) is between 2010 kg and 2110 kg (about 4430 to 4650 lbs), which includes passengers, cargo, and fuel. These weight specifications ensure the vehicle maintains good handling characteristics while accommodating family and luggage needs safely.

The 2016 Volkswagen Passat offers a luggage capacity of 450 liters (approximately 15.9 cubic feet). This trunk volume provides competitive cargo space within the mid-size sedan segment, suitable for groceries, travel bags, or sports equipment. Compared to similar cars like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, which typically have trunk volumes around 430 to 470 liters (15.2 to 16.6 cubic feet), the Passat holds its own, making it practical for everyday use and longer trips.

Yes, the 2016 Volkswagen Passat fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With a length of 4875 mm (16 feet) and a width of 1834 mm (6 feet), it is within the typical dimensions of a standard garage, which usually measures about 6 meters (20 feet) deep and 3 meters (10 feet) wide. The ride height or ground clearance is 138 mm (5.4 inches), which is typical for sedans and won’t pose any issues when entering sloped garage floors. Owners should measure their personal garage spaces, but generally, the Passat will fit easily.

The 2016 Passat offers a ground clearance of 138 mm (5.4 inches), which is typical for passenger sedans in its class. This moderate ride height strikes a good balance between ground clearance and handling, providing stability at higher speeds and sufficient clearance for common road obstacles. Comparable mid-size sedans like the Nissan Altima or Honda Accord usually feature ground clearances ranging from 135 mm to 150 mm (approximately 5.3 to 5.9 inches), making the Passat competitive in terms of everyday usability and road comfort.

The 2016 Volkswagen Passat offers a range of rim sizes from 16 to 19 inches, including 6.5J x 16, 7J x 17, 8J x 18, 8J x 18, and 8J x 19. Corresponding tire sizes include 215/60 R16, 215/55 R17, 235/45 R18, 235/40 R19. Larger rims with lower profile tires typically provide sharper handling and a sportier feel but may compromise comfort on rough roads. Smaller rims with higher profile tires offer a smoother ride. This flexibility allows buyers to tailor their Passat’s drive and appearance to personal preferences.

Compared to its predecessor, the 2016 Passat A33 generation is notably larger. The B7 Passat was shorter and slightly narrower; for example, the B7 measured around 4775 mm (188 inches) in length, making the A33 roughly 100 mm (4 inches) longer. Width also increased from approximately 1820 mm to 1834 mm (about 72 inches to 72.2 inches). This additional size provides improved interior space and trunk capacity, making the A33 generation more comfortable and practical. Overall, the A33 generation reflects Volkswagen’s design trend towards larger, more spacious mid-size sedans.

In comparison to Toyota Camry and Honda Accord models from the same period, the 2016 Passat is similar in length and width but stands out due to its spacious interior and trunk. The Camry measures roughly 4870 mm in length and 1840 mm in width, while the Accord is about 4900 mm long and 1860 mm wide. The Passat’s 450-liter trunk capacity falls neatly within the segment average. Volkswagen emphasizes a balance of European styling and interior space, making the Passat competitive when considering overall dimensions in the mid-size sedan market.

The 2016 Volkswagen Passat (A33 generation) is a mid-size sedan designed primarily for the North American market. Produced between 2015 and 2019, it combines a spacious, comfortable interior with efficient performance and solid build quality. Its design caters to families and individuals looking for a reliable daily driver with modern styling. The Passat emphasizes practicality with its large cabin and trunk, competitive safety features, and a smooth ride. It fits well into the market segment of refined and dependable sedans.

Yes, the 2016 Passat offers an interior designed to comfortably seat five passengers, with generous legroom and headroom due to its extended exterior dimensions compared to previous generations. The 4875 mm length and 1834 mm width translate into excellent cabin space, especially front and rear legroom, which is often praised in reviews. This makes long drives more comfortable and practical for families and carpooling. The sedan's design also maximizes passenger comfort with ergonomic seating and ample glass surfaces for visibility.