The Volkswagen Passat ninth generation has arrived (sort of) and it is only available in an estate configuration, with the saloon variant now discontinued in the UK market!
For the time being, it is available in the Life, Elegance and R-Line trims. But what has changed?
Exterior –
The new Volkswagen Passat is larger than its predecessor, measuring 144mm longer and the wheelbase measures 50mm longer. It shares a platform with the new third-generation Skoda Superb.
It retains disinvite characteristics and is easily identifiable as being a Passat, although, incorporates futuristic elements, which were inspired by other outgoing Volkswagen models.
The grille has been revamped and now incorporates a thin light strip between the grille and bonnet. Similarly, it now features a full-width rear LED lighting strip.
Both the Passat Life and Elegance trims sit on a set of 7.5 X 17” alloy wheels while upgrading to the R-Line includes a set of 8J X 18” alloy wheels.
Interior
The interior quality is much higher than last generation Passat. The infotainment operates via Volkswagen’s latest MIB4 and is controlled by the incredible 10.25” touchscreen located on the dash.
As seen with other models operating the MIB4, the top row of widgets can be adjusted, allowing them to safely and conveniently access the functions they rely on most.
Users have the option of upgrading to a 15” infotainment pack, which also hosts Head-Up Display functionality.
Behind the infotainment, sits a new backlit fascia panel with colour-customisable lighting, which gives the car a futuristic feel while driving at night.
Notorious for long journeys, the Passat now comes with massaging seat functionality as standard.
The Life variant includes a three-bubble massage function as standard while upgrading to the Elegance and R-Line variants increases this to thirteen-bubble functionality, maximising user comfort for those long drives.
Due to being larger than its predecessor, there is now 50mm of extra legroom for rear passengers, in addition to, 40 added litres of boot space for a total of 690 litres.
The rear seats are a 40/20/40 configuration and when folded, allow for an impressive 1920 litres of boot space.
Accessing this boot space is now more convenient, due to the standard electronic tailgate function and a low loading lip.
Engine & Performance
For now, only one engine option is available for the UK market, with two additional hybrid variants due to be introduced later this year.
At launch, there is the entry 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, paired with 48V mild hybrid technology. It produces a plentiful 148bhp and 184lb of torque, although, Volkswagen claim that the starter generator adds 17bhp for short periods while under load.
As you would expect from a Passat, the fuel economy is excellent, and it should have no trouble achieving 52.3mpg.
On the hybrid side, the 1.5-litre engine is paired with an electric motor to churn out 201bhp and 268bhp, depending on your configuration.
At 19.7kWh, the new battery pack is almost double the size of its predecessor and allows up to 62 miles of pure electric driving. Moreover, it now supports up to 50kW charging for improved charging time.
Kicking off the range, the Volkswagen Passat Life will start from an extremely reasonable £38,480. Upgrading to the top-level R-Line variant will set you back £42,830.
Despite being heavily reworked and featuring a host of futuristic styling, it remains true to principle and is distinctively a Passat.
The steering is responsive and dynamic, allowing for fluidity and smooth handling.
The combination of storage, driver comfort, smooth handling and value for money ensures that the Volkswagen Passat remains a top contender for executive vehicles.
Volkswagen Passat Verdict
Order banks are now open for the new Passat and deliveries are due to commence later this year!
While you wait, check out our live Volkswagen offers.
