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October 15, 2021
For Those Who Find Ordinary Wagons Uninspiring: A Test Drive of the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack TDI 4MOTION | Volkswagen
Volkswagen Passat Alltrack TDI 4MOTION | Volkswagen Passat Alltrack TDI 4MOTION
Test Drive: Volkswagen Passat Alltrack TDI 4MOTION
The new Passat received a minor update in April 2021. We test drove the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack TDI 4MOTION, a variant based on the wagon model, equipped with the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system and featuring resin wheel arch cladding for a subtle SUV-like presence.
Text by FUMIO Ogawa | Photographs by ATSUKI Kawano
An Appealingly Rare Choice
For those who find SUVs too restrictive with their ride height and station wagons too ordinary, the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack TDI 4MOTION is the perfect fit. The latest model was released in Japan on April 6, 2021.
This is a model with increased ride height based on the Passat station wagon variant, and it is quite popular in Japan. Furthermore, it is the only model in the Passat series equipped with an all-wheel-drive system.
The car's appeal lies in its skillful proportioning, with a body measuring 4785mm in length and 1510mm in height. It has a surprisingly low profile, appearing long and exuding a unique presence.
In addition, features like the wheel arches made of durable resin, known as cladding, add a moderate sense of outdoor capability. We will touch upon appealing competitors later.
Like the Passat, the Alltrack offers a very spacious rear seat. It's practical as a family car for city driving, and for those with outdoor hobbies, it can carry plenty of gear. In essence, its appeal lies in being a somewhat rare choice.
Compared to the Passat Variant, the Alltrack shares the same length of 4785mm, is 25mm wider at 1855mm, and 25mm taller at 1535mm. The engine is the same 1968cc 4-cylinder diesel unit used in the Variant TDI.
It produces a maximum output of 140kW (190ps) at 3500-4000rpm and a maximum torque of 400Nm at 1900-3300rpm. Rather than being exhilarating to rev, as the figures suggest, it delivers strong power in the lower rev range, making it particularly suited for long-distance touring on highways.
The steering wheel is not overly sensitive but offers excellent responsiveness. This allows road information to be transmitted with just a light touch, maintaining a sense of unity between the car and the driver.
For those seeking driving enjoyment in addition to the practicality of the Passat station wagon's generous 650-liter cargo space, we recommend the Passat Variant TSI with its 1.5-liter gasoline engine.
Nevertheless, if you find yourself driving in mountainous terrain, such as at a ski resort, you can fully appreciate the dependable nature of the Alltrack TDI on winding downhill roads, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and controlled body roll.