Which used Passat?

I am looking to buy a VW Passat estate. I heard the 2.0 tdi 140 bhp are the best, but after searching on the net and reading blogs I am confused about which one to buy. Would it also be dodgy to buy private? I have a budget of around 6k , so which is a best buy and what year?

Asked on 14 June 2011 by mull

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:
    Select a few terms below
Similar questions
What is the best family car, with a good suspension for under £20,000 and no more than 6 years old?
I am trying to decide about which used car to buy for about £9000-£10000. After reading about Ford Focus, Seat Leon, Golf, Audi A3 and Hyundai i30 I am inclined towards the I30 as it seems to be a reliable...
We need to buy a new second hand family car. We're a family of 2 adults and 2 kids under 4. We need something economical, reliable and will last a while. Our budget is under £9000, ideally around £8000....
Related models
Spacious and comfortable. Wide range of engines. Big, boot with lockable seatbacks. Generally better from May 2008 onwards.