The 8th Generation, Made Lighter with MQB

Alongside the Golf, the "Golf" is a core model in Volkswagen's lineup. That Passat has now undergone a full model change, becoming the eighth generation.

The new Passat adopts the modular platform "MQB", the same as the Golf 7, for its chassis. While the overall length remains virtually unchanged at 4,767mm, just 2mm longer than the previous generation, the short overhangs have extended the wheelbase by 79mm to 2,791mm.

The width has increased by 12mm to 1,832mm, and the height has been reduced by 14mm to 1,456mm, achieving a wide and low stance. Furthermore, by lowering the bonnet line and simultaneously moving the front windshield rearward, a silhouette that emphasizes sportiness has been realized.

The luggage space has also increased, with the sedan gaining 21 liters to 586 liters. For the estate (Variant), capacity is 650 liters in standard configuration, an increase of 47 liters, and can be expanded to a maximum of 1,780 liters.



Moreover, thanks to the adoption of the MQB and the latest engines, the new model's curb weight has been reduced by up to 85kg compared to the previous generation.

Ten engine options are available, including gasoline, diesel, and plug-in hybrid variants. All are equipped with direct injection and turbochargers, with power outputs ranging from 88kW (120ps) to 206kW (280ps). These latest engines feature start/stop and brake energy recovery functions, achieving fuel efficiency improvements of up to 20 percent compared to the previous model.

The Passat's first plug-in hybrid combines a 1.4-liter TSI engine with a maximum output of 115kW with an 80kW electric motor, delivering a total system output of 155kW (211ps) and a maximum torque of 400Nm. It is equipped with a 9.9kWh lithium-ion battery that can be charged externally, allowing for a pure electric driving range of up to 50km. The fuel economy is expected to be similar to the Golf's plug-in hybrid model, the "Golf GTE". For reference, the Golf GTE boasts a fuel economy of 1.5L/100km (approximately 66.7km/L) and CO2 emissions of just 35g/km.

A Sporty R Line Package Also Available

Similar to the previous model, the new Passat will be offered with three equipment lines – Trendline, Comfortline, and Highline – in addition to the engine variations, with an "R Line Package" also available as an option.

The most basic Trendline comes equipped with 16-inch wheels, LED rear lights, a glove box with a cooling function, automatic post-collision braking, and tire pressure monitoring.

The Comfortline adds chrome trim around the side windows, electric comfort seats, a leather steering wheel, and Front Assist with fog lights and city emergency braking, in addition to the Trendline features. Depending on the engine variant, it may also include LED headlights, chrome exhaust pipes, and DCC adaptive chassis control.



Furthermore, the most luxurious Highline comes standard with chrome lines on the radiator grille, chrome accents surrounding the lower body, LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, and front seats upholstered in Alcantara and leather.

The sporty "R Line Package," supervised by Volkswagen R, Volkswagen's motorsport division, is also available. This package includes an interior trim with Vienna leather, an R Line sport steering wheel with shift paddles, stainless steel foot pedals, a black roof lining, dedicated bumpers, a unique radiator grille, a roof spoiler, and gloss black diffuser – a suite of equipment designed to excite.

LCD Instrument Panel and Head-Up Display

The new Passat offers an optional 12.3-inch full LCD display with a resolution of 1,440 x 540 pixels, replacing the traditional analog gauges. Dubbed the "Active Info Display," this digital instrument cluster, similar to those being introduced in flagship models across various brands, flexibly displays information such as the speedometer, tachometer, navigation, and warning lights, adapting to operation and content.



In terms of safety, it features City Emergency Brake, which monitors the road ahead via radar and applies warnings and braking if a collision is imminent. This can be further enhanced with an optional camera system capable of detecting pedestrians. The Trailer Assist function, which aids in reversing when towing a trailer – a common practice in Europe – is also making its world debut.

The infotainment system is also packed with the latest features. Three navigation options are available, with screen sizes ranging from 5 to 8 inches with high-resolution displays. It also supports "MirrorLink" for transferring and operating smartphone screens on the car's display, as well as Bluetooth connectivity, offering a wide array of functions.

The new Passat goes on sale in Europe starting July 10th. Prices start at €25,875 (approximately ¥3.57 million) for the sedan and €26,950 (approximately ¥3.73 million) for the estate (Variant).