The Volkswagen Passat has been named Used Hybrid of the Year at the 2026 What Car? Used Car of the Year Awards, with judges praising its comfort, practicality, electric driving range and value on the nearly-new market.
The latest accolade brings the current-generation Passat’s awards tally to 14 since its UK introduction in April 2024, reinforcing the estate car’s reputation as a capable family and long-distance vehicle.
Why did the Passat win?
What Car? judges singled out the Passat eHybrid’s refined driving experience, spacious interior and ability to cover substantial distances using electric power alone.
The plug-in hybrid offers an official electric-only range of up to 82 miles, potentially allowing many everyday journeys to be completed without using the petrol engine, provided the battery is regularly charged.
Its generous passenger accommodation and large boot were also important factors, alongside the savings available when buying a nearly-new example rather than a new car.
Mark Pearson, What Car? Used Cars Editor, explained:
What really seals the deal for us is the Passat’s incredible value when bought nearly new. It’s an exceptional all-rounder, and for anyone looking for a smart and capacious estate car with a strong reliability record, we can’t recommend it highly enough.
Volkswagen Passat eHybrid – At a Glance
What has it won?
Used Hybrid of the Year at the 2026 What Car? Used Car of the Year Awards.
What type of car is it?
A spacious estate car available with plug-in hybrid technology.
How far can it travel on electricity?
Up to 82 miles according to official figures, depending on specification. Real-world range will vary.
Why does it appeal to used buyers?
Comfort, interior quality, passenger space, luggage capacity and potential savings compared with buying new.
When was the current model introduced?
April 2024 in the UK.
A growing collection of awards
The latest recognition follows the Passat being named Best Used Hybrid Estate at the 2026 What Car? Electric Car Awards less than a month earlier.
Since its launch, the model has collected awards covering several aspects of ownership, including safety, towing capability, estate-car practicality and hybrid performance.
Notable achievements include:
- 2024: Best Hybrid Estate Car, What Car? Electric Car Awards.
- 2024: Tow Car of the Year, What Car? Tow Car Awards.
- 2025: Estate of the Year, Tow Car of the Year and Safety Award, What Car? Awards.
- 2025: Best Hybrid Estate, What Car? Electric Car Awards.
- 2025: Overall Tow Car of the Year, Caravan and Motorhome Club Awards.
- 2026: Estate Car of the Year, Professional Driver QSI Awards.
- 2026: Best Used Hybrid Estate, What Car? Electric Car Awards.
- 2026: Used Hybrid of the Year, What Car? Used Car of the Year Awards.
The repeated recognition for towing and estate-car practicality underlines the Passat’s broader appeal beyond its hybrid powertrain.
Motoring Echo Verdict
The Passat eHybrid makes a convincing case for buyers who still value the practicality of a traditional estate car but want the opportunity to complete shorter journeys on electric power.
Its substantial official electric range could make it particularly attractive to drivers with home charging facilities, while the petrol engine provides flexibility for longer journeys.
For used-car buyers, however, the most interesting aspect may be depreciation. A nearly-new Passat could offer much of the comfort, technology and versatility of a new example at a considerably lower purchase price.
As with any used plug-in hybrid, buyers should check the vehicle’s service history, battery warranty, charging equipment and overall condition before purchasing.
Source: Volkswagen UK / 2026 What Car? Used Car of the Year Awards.
