1996 Volkswagen Passat Wagon (1.9L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd) MPG & Specs
Quick answer
The 1996 Volkswagen Passat Wagon gets an EPA-estimated 31/41 MPG (city/highway) and 35 MPG combined, with an estimated $2,300/year fuel cost and 290.857 g/mi CO₂. Engine: 1.9 L 4-cyl.
The 1996 Volkswagen Passat Wagon with the 1.9-liter 4-cylinder diesel engine returns an EPA-estimated 31 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway, for a combined 35 MPG. This page summarizes the official EPA fuel-economy and emissions data for this configuration.
| Engine | 1.9 L 4-cyl |
| Transmission | Manual 5-spd |
| Drive | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Vehicle class | Midsize-Large Station Wagons |
| MPG — city | 31 |
| MPG — highway | 41 |
| MPG — combined | 35 |
| Annual fuel cost* | $2,300 |
| CO₂ tailpipe | 290.857 g/mi |
| EPA GHG score | — |
How efficient is it?
With a combined 35 MPG, the 1996 Volkswagen Passat Wagon sits in the very good range for fuel economy. That is about 76% better than the typical Midsize-Large Station Wagons of its era (20 MPG class average), making it one of the more efficient choices in its class.
Fuel economy and running costs
At about $2,300 per year in fuel (EPA estimate, 15,000 mi/yr), fuel is a major part of the cost of owning the 1996 Volkswagen Passat Wagon. Over five years that is roughly $11,500 at today's prices — before insurance, maintenance, and depreciation.
Emissions
The 1996 Volkswagen Passat Wagon emits approximately 290.857 grams of CO₂ per mile at the tailpipe. Lower emissions generally track higher fuel economy.
How to read these numbers
EPA figures come from standardized laboratory test cycles and are the same estimates shown on the vehicle's window sticker. Your real-world mileage depends on driving style, conditions, fuel grade, and maintenance. Use combined MPG and annual fuel cost to compare vehicles fairly.