2000 Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5.5) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5.5) varies between 1581 kg and 1819 kg (3487 to 4009 pounds), depending on the specific model and equipment. This weight range provides a solid build quality and contributes to stable road handling, although it may result in moderately increased fuel consumption compared to lighter vehicles. The balance strikes a good compromise between ride comfort, safety, and efficiency for a mid-sized station wagon.

The Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5.5) has a maximum permissible weight ranging from 1990 kg to 2360 kg (4385 to 5205 pounds). This figure represents the total allowable weight of the vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and the car itself. It ensures safe operation under fully loaded conditions and is critical for towing or transporting heavy loads within manufacturer-specified limits.

The luggage capacity of the Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5.5) ranges from 450 liters to 495 liters (about 15.9 to 17.5 cubic feet) when the rear seats are upright, offering ample room for daily shopping or travel. When you fold down the rear seats, the capacity expands significantly to between 1545 liters and 1600 liters (approximately 54.6 to 56.5 cubic feet), making it highly versatile for larger cargo such as furniture or sports equipment.

A standard home garage typically measures about 2400 mm (7.9 feet) in width and 4800 mm (15.7 feet) in length. With the Passat Variant (B5.5)'s length of 4682 mm (184.3 inches) and width of 1746 mm (68.7 inches), it comfortably fits inside an average garage while leaving some clearance space for opening doors and maneuvering. Its height of around 1497-1498 mm (58.9-59.0 inches) also ensures it won’t have issues with most garage door heights.

The Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5.5) supports several rim sizes including 6J x 15, 7J x 16, 7.5J x 17, paired with tire sizes of 195/65 R15, 205/55 R16, and 225/45 R17. Smaller rims with higher profile tires (e.g., 15-inch with 195/65 tires) typically provide a more comfortable ride with better absorption over bumps, while larger 17-inch rims with low-profile tires (225/45) can enhance cornering performance and offer a sportier feel but may reduce ride comfort slightly.

The roof load capacity of the Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5.5) is rated at 100 kg (approximately 220 pounds). This means you can safely place roof racks, cargo boxes, or bike carriers up to this weight without adversely affecting vehicle stability or risking damage. It's important to adhere to this limit to maintain safe handling and avoid potential damage to the roof structure.

Compared to its predecessor B5 generation, the Passat Variant (B5.5) shows incremental size and weight changes. The B5.5 continues with a similar length and width but slightly refined dimensions to improve interior space and aerodynamics. The curb weight may have increased marginally due to enhanced safety features and equipment, generally ranging between 1581 kg to 1819 kg for B5.5 versus slightly lighter values in B5. These adjustments improved ride quality, safety, and practicality while maintaining familiar handling characteristics.

The Passat Variant (B5.5) stands competitively among early 2000s mid-size station wagons like the Ford Mondeo Estate, Opel Vectra Caravan, and Toyota Avensis Wagon. At 4682 mm (184.3 in) length and 1746 mm (68.7 in) width, its footprint balances interior space and urban usability. With up to 1600 liters (56.5 cu ft) luggage capacity with rear seats folded, it ranks well for cargo volume. Its weight and build quality offer a blend of comfort and safety, making it a preferred choice for family and business users seeking a reliable, spacious wagon.

The height of the Volkswagen Passat Variant (B5.5) ranges slightly from 1497 mm to 1498 mm (58.9 to 59.0 inches). This moderate height is typical for station wagons, contributing to an elevated seating position that improves driver visibility over traffic and enhances cabin comfort. At the same time, this height helps maintain aerodynamic efficiency compared to taller SUVs or minivans, balancing fuel economy and stability without sacrificing interior headroom.