The current Volkswagen Passat can tow up to 2,000 kg braked. Figures below are the strongest variant in each generation — lighter trims and engines tow less.
Unbraked (no trailer brakes): 750 kg.
| Years | Braked | Unbraked |
|---|---|---|
| 1981–1985 | 1,815 | 454 |
| 1985–1988 | 1,500 | 680 |
| 1988–1993 | 1,500 | 688 |
| 1993–1997 | 1,500 | 750 |
| 1997–2000 | 1,800 | 750 |
| 2000–2024 | 2,200 | 750 |
| 2010–present | 2,000 | 750 |
Towing capacity is the manufacturer-rated maximum for the model's strongest variant in each generation, not an average across trims — a base engine will tow less than the figure shown. Cars with an implausible source-data towing figure relative to their own kerb weight are excluded rather than shown with a guessed correction.