Ninth-generation Volkswagen Passat is almost ready: first details
Million-hit Volkswagen Passat
With more than 30 million units sold, the Volkswagen Passat is one of the most important models in Volkswagen’s lineup. Thus, in developing the all-new Passat Variant, the brand spared no expense and exploited the full potential of the new MQB Evo platform. The new platform allows new systems to be added. Among other things, it will be available with a new adaptive suspension and as a Plug-in Hybrid with an electric range of up to 100 kilometers.
Passat grown substantially
The new Volkswagen Passat Variant has grown considerably from its predecessor. Overall length increases by 14 centimeters, making 5 centimeters of additional legroom available in the rear. The increased length has also increased the capacity of the luggage compartment by 40 liters: it now measures 690 liters with the rear seats up, and when the rear seats are folded down there is a whopping 1,920 liters of available space. A “Full HD” luggage space, in other words.
The interior of the new Passat Variant features high-quality materials and plenty of sound insulation. The optionally available ergoActive front seats offer various massage and climate functions.
Infotainment
Volkswagen has listened to feedback from Volkswagen drivers. One of the wishes was to have a large touchscreen in the car. The ninth-generation Volkswagen Passat gets a 32 cm (12.9-inch) display as standard. A 38 cm (15-inch) display can also be chosen. The illuminated touch-enabled sliders are located below the infotainment system display and provide the driver with the ability to adjust both interior temperature and volume – without losing sight of the road. The optional head-up display projects information onto the windshield to further enhance driver safety. Finally, the multifunction steering wheel is again equipped with buttons – to make operation easier.
Adaptive dampers
The new Passat Variant is available with adaptive dampers that respond entirely autonomously to the road surface and driving situation, but can be adjusted by the driver to individual preferences. The optional DCC Pro system calculates damping for each wheel and tunes the shock absorbers in a split second. A Vehicle Dynamics Manager is part of the standard equipment – this system debuted in the current Golf GTI and is part of the MQB platform.
engines
The new Passat Variant will be available with a wide palette of engines, including a plug-in hybrid (eHybrid). The electric range of the eHybrid is 100 kilometers, a big step forward compared to the previous version. Charging this hybrid can be done with 11 kW AC or 50 kW at a DC fast charger.
