Volkswagen Passat Alltrack Released | Volkswagen

Volkswagen Passat Alltrack

Volkswagen Passat 4WD Model "Alltrack" Launched

Volkswagen Group Japan has begun sales of the "Passat Alltrack," a full-time 4WD wagon that serves as the top-grade model in the mid-size "Passat Variant" series.

Text by OTSUKI Takuma (OPENERS)

First 4WD in the Current Passat Series

World Premiered with "Cross Coupé" at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011The "Passat Alltrack" has been released. It is the first 4WD model in the current series.

Based on"Passat Variant"Compared to the "Passat Variant," the vehicle height has been increased by 30mm, bringing the minimum ground clearance to 165mm. Simultaneously, the front approach angle has been expanded from 13.5° to 16.0°, and the rear departure angle from 11.9° to 13.6°, enhancing off-road capability.

The 4WD system employs Volkswagen's proprietary "4MOTION" all-wheel-drive system. By constantly controlling the power distribution between the front and rear wheels according to road surface changes, it achieves ideal traction. In conjunction with "EDS (Electronic Differential Lock System)," the electronic control technology "XDS (Cross Differential Traction Control)" controls the front differential, mitigating understeer.

The "Off-road Switch," adopted for the first time by Volkswagen in a non-SUV model, stabilizes driving at speeds below 30 km/h. It automatically adjusts the ABS activation timing, EDS response speed, DSG shift timing, and controls vehicle speed on downhill gradients of 10° or more. Simultaneously, it modifies the accelerator response level to enable precise control.

Volkswagen Passat Alltrack Launch | Volkswagen Passat Alltrack

Downsizing Engine

While the "Variant" is equipped with a 1.4-liter TSI engine, the "Alltrack" is powered by a 2-liter TSI engine, the same as used in the currentGolf GTImodel. Nevertheless, in line with Volkswagen's downsizing strategy, the displacement has been reduced by 37 percent compared to the 3.2-liter V6 engine of the "Passat Variant V6 4MOTION," which corresponded to the "Alltrack" in the previous generation Passat.

Compared to the "Passat Variant V6 4MOTION," the "Passat Alltrack" has a lower maximum output of 155kW (211ps) and maximum torque of 280Nm (28.6kgm). However, the vehicle is 70kg lighter and achieves maximum torque at 1,700 rpm, over 1,000 rpm lower than before. This ensures performance while achieving over 10 percent better fuel efficiency.

As for driver assistance systems, it is equipped with "ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control)," which uses radar integrated into the front of the vehicle to measure the distance to the car ahead and maintain a set distance while following it. Furthermore, as an extension of "ACC," it features a "Pre-crash Brake System" that warns the driver of an imminent collision with a vehicle or obstacle ahead through warning lights and steering wheel vibrations. At speeds below 30 km/h, it automatically applies the brakes to avoid or mitigate the collision, and in some situations, it can support full stopping. It also includes a "Driver Fatigue Detection System" that monitors steering inputs during driving to detect driver fatigue and prompts rest with warning lights and audible alarms.

The transmission is a 6-speed DSG, available only in right-hand drive. The price is 4.94 million yen.

spec