More Powerful Than the Passat, More Eco-Friendly Than the Variant

It is advertised as being more powerful than the Passat series equipped with the 1.4-liter turbo engine, and more environmentally friendly than previous large-displacement engine models (like the R36). Upon test driving, it proved to be moderately powerful and comfortable, with a refined finish.

Raised Ride Height and Underbody Protection

The exterior features of the "Passat Alltrack" are characterized by an increase in decorative garnish parts compared to the wagon "Passat Variant," which can be considered its base model, and a 30mm increase in ride height.

The semi-gloss chrome parts serve as design accents, creating a unique character. Similar to Audi's"Allroad Quattro", it possesses a crossover appeal that evokes a certain sportiness.



The underbody protection on the bumpers is not merely decorative. The 4WD system enhances off-road capability. The approach angle increases from 13.5 to 16.0 degrees, the departure angle from 11.9 to 13.6 degrees, and the ramp breakover angle from 9.5 to 12.8 degrees. While it may not offer the same off-road prowess as a cross-country 4WD, it could prove surprisingly useful in snowy regions or when heading for snow sports. The front and rear bumper underguards are designed with functional backing.

The 4WD system adopted for the Passat Alltrack is Volkswagen's proprietary "4MOTION." Under normal driving conditions, it primarily distributes power with 90% to the front wheels and 10% to the rear. Depending on road conditions, up to 100% of the power can be sent to the rear wheels.

Although this test drive was only on-road, we fortunately experienced heavy rain. The Passat Alltrack's behavior in these conditions instilled a sense of security in the driver. On the highway, it demonstrated excellent straight-line stability. While real-time information on power distribution is not provided, based on experience with Audi, it should offer maximum benefit in situations with strong crosswinds.

Neutral Handling

The 1,984cc 4-cylinder DOHC with intercooler turbo engine, shared with the Golf GTI, produces a maximum output of 211ps and a maximum torque of 280Nm. In addition to this, the European market offers a 1.8-liter gasoline engine and a 2-liter turbo diesel engine (with two different power outputs).



The shift schedule is somewhat disappointing. This is likely for fuel efficiency. The 6-speed dual-clutch transmission upshifts very quickly. As mentioned, it shifts to a higher gear just as the engine reaches its "sweet spot." One wishes to experience the exhilaration of acceleration a bit longer.

The power steering assist is generous, making the steering feel light."The Beetle"felt similarly, and this might be the taste of the latest Volkswagen cars. While there's a slight vagueness around the center position, the car responds firmly when you turn the wheel. The suspension, with larger dampers than those in the 1.4-liter Passat, provides a solid feel.



Cornering doesn't offer particularly sporty thrills, but it doesn't exhibit strong understeer either, tending towards natural behavior. The "XDS (Electronic Differential Lock)" system, fitted to the front differential, reduces understeer tendencies characteristic of 4WD during medium to high-speed cornering. However, throughout the drive, the handling remained light and the car's movements were neutral, with minimal body roll, providing a sense of security.

The Alltrack's Appeal Seen Through Its Rivals

Let's look for rivals to the Passat Alltrack (4.94 million yen) in the market. A conceptually similar model is the "Volvo XC70 AWD SE." However, the Volvo has a larger 3-liter turbo engine, costs 6.09 million yen, and is significantly more expensive.

Its sister company's"Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TFSI quattro"is a full-time 4WD equipped with the same 2-liter turbo engine producing 211ps. Its price is higher at 5.41 million yen. Furthermore, the A4 Avant is exclusively focused on on-road performance.

The "BMW X1 xDrive28i" could also be a rival. This is a full-time 4WD equipped with a 2-liter turbo engine producing 245ps, priced at 4.95 million yen. The "X1 xDrive20i" (4.24 million yen) with the same engine tuned to 184ps is also available. BMW emphasizes sporty handling. There's a difference there. Moreover, the X1's styling might be polarizing.

The Passat's Excellent Packaging

The Passat Alltrack is also well-equipped in terms of safety features. The "ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control)" uses radar integrated into the front to identify preceding vehicles and automatically adjust speed.

The Pre-Crash Brake System uses the same radar as the ACC to automatically apply the brakes and avoid a collision with obstacles ahead at speeds below 30 km/h. Additionally, it features a "Driver Fatigue Detection System" that assesses driver fatigue through steering inputs during long drives and alerts the driver to take a break via a warning light.


The interior features exclusive Nappa leather sport seats. Their wave-like stitching is a pleasing design reminiscent of Italian sports cars of the past, and they offer excellent comfort. Furthermore, the interior, with its precisely integrated dashboard made possible by synthetic resin and complemented by wood trim, skillfully creates a sense of quality within reasonable limits, making it unique to this car.

The "Passat" brand has traditionally offered well-built German cars with good fuel economy and excellent packaging at a reasonable price (3.24 million yen). The Passat Alltrack aims to further expand the Passat's value proposition by adding 1.5 million yen to that. With almost all optional equipment included, it can be considered a surprisingly good deal.

Volkswagen Passat Alltrack
Body Dimensions | Length 4,785 x Width 1,820 x Height 1,560mm
Wheelbase | 2,710mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,555/1,535mm
Minimum Ground Clearance | 160mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,670kg
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.3m
Engine | 1,984cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC with Intercooler Turbo
Maximum Output | 155kW (211ps) / 5,300-6,200rpm
Maximum Torque | 280Nm (28.6kgm) / 1,700-5,200rpm
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs / Discs
Suspension Front/Rear | MacPherson Struts (with stabilizer) / 4-Link (with stabilizer)
Tire Size | 225/45 R18
Fuel Economy | 11.6km/ℓ (JC08 mode)
CO2 Emissions | 200g/km (JC08 mode equivalent)
Price | 4.94 million yen