Background car tests

Volkswagen Passat Variant

The ninth-generation Volkswagen Passat has a wheelbase of 2,841 mm. That is an increase of 50 mm over the previous generation Passat Variant. For your information, the Skoda Superb has the exact same wheelbase. The Passat’s overall length increased by 150 mm to 4,917 mm; width increased by only 20 mm to 1,852 mm. At 1,506 mm, the height remained the same as its predecessor. The design looks timeless and sleek. Thanks to the new design, the Passat Variant is very streamlined. With a Cw value of 0.25, it has the best drag coefficient ever for a Passat Variant.

More interior space

The interior of the new Passat Variant offers even more space than its already spacious predecessor. Thanks to the 5 cm longer wheelbase, maximum legroom increases by 50 mm to 947 mm. Luggage compartment capacity has grown by 40 liters to 690 liters (with the rear seats up). Space expands even further to 1,920 liters when the rear seats are folded down. The Skoda Superb Combi has exactly the same luggage compartment dimensions.

IQ.LIGHT

Volkswagen provides several LED headlights. There is a choice of regular LED headlights or optional HD LED Matrix headlights (IQ.LIGHT). In the case of the latter type of lighting, both light units are connected via a horizontal LED strip in the grille. This optically continuous light strip gives the Passat a distinctive front end. The rear also stands out, thanks in part to the continuous LED taillight units that emphasize the width of the body.

Interior Volkswagen Passat

In the interior of the new Volkswagen Passat, the high-quality finish stands out, but especially the fourth generation of the MIB infotainment system (MIB4). This system consists of two parts that form a central unit. The digital cockpit behind the wheel is crisp and clear, but does have a somewhat busy display of various icons. More to our liking is the infotainment system itself. This sticks out excellently and is easy to operate. Disabling some driving assistance systems is also taken care of in two seconds, just like the altitude. The speed alert and lane-keeping assist can be turned off in an instant, saving annoyance on the road. By the way, the new Passat comes standard with a central display with a screen diagonal of 12.9 inches. An optional or equipment-dependent 15-inch display can be ordered.

Convenient switch

The Passat’s center console offers a nice amount of storage space. This is because the shift module is now relocated to the steering column. The switch is flipped forward to the ‘D’ position to drive off and flipped back to ‘R’ to drive in reverse, while the parking brake can be activated simply by pressing the side of the switch. On the left we detect a multifunction combination switch for the turn signal and wiper functions. Everything works very simply in practice.

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT VARIANT (2024), how practical is it really? – REVIEW – AutoRAI TV

Lovely chairs

We are also delighted with the seats in the Passat. These sit wonderfully, especially the new ergoActive front seats. These feature electric adjustment (up to 14-way, depending on model and equipment) as well as massage and air conditioning functions. Especially the massage function works perfectly. More expensive models could learn a thing or two from that. In the interior, it is also noticeable while driving that Volkswagen has put a lot of work into sound insulation. The Passat is pleasantly quiet. For the side windows, in addition to the standard acoustic windshield, double glazing with acoustic film is used.

MQB Evo floor architecture.

By the way, did we mention that the new generation Volkswagen Passat is on the MQB Evo base architecture? This platform offers more room for electrification and new technology. In the latter case, consider adaptive chassis control (Dynamic Chassis Control Pro) that gives users a choice of fifteen modes to adjust the suspension. You can choose from a soft or harder base. Fine! However, this system is optional.

Engine variants Volkswagen Passat

Conventional powertrains are not on the Passat’s price list. There is a choice of a 48V mild-hybrid option: an eTSI with 110 kW (150 hp). A DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission is always standard. In the case of the eTSI, it is a seven-speed DSG.  Above the eTSI, Volkswagen is positioning two eHybrids. Those are plug-in hybrids. There is a choice of a 150 kW (204 hp) version or a top-of-the-line 200 kW (272 hp) version. The eHybrid models have a six-speed DSG.

Fast charging with a plug-in hybrid

Thanks to the new 19.7 kWh (net energy content) battery, the Passat Variant can drive 100 kilometers on a full charge of electricity according to the WLTP test standard. In practice, count on about 70 to 80 kilometers, depending on conditions. In addition, a Passat eHybrid allows recharging at a DC fast charging station with an output of 50 kW. So fast charging with a PHEV! The PHEV combines an electric motor with a 1.5 TSI evo2 turbocharged gasoline engine. By the way, all engine variants have front-wheel drive.

Versions Volkswagen Passat

The new generation Volkswagen Passat is available as Passat, Business, Elegance and R-Line. The Passat’s base equipment includes the new MIB4 display, ‘App-Connect’ wireless smartphone integration, automatic air conditioning, USB-C ports with 45 W charging capability (front) and roof rails (in black). In terms of driving assistance systems, standard features include Automatic Distance Control (Adaptive Cruise Control), Blind Spot Sensor (Side Assist), Distance Control System (Front Assist), Lane Keeping Assist (Lane Assist), Front and Rear Parking Sensors (Park Distance Control), Rear View Camera (Rear View) and Dynamic Road Sign Display, as well as LED headlights and taillight units.

The new Passat 1.5 eTSI can be ordered from 48,990 euros and the Passat 1.5 eHybrid (Business) comes from 49,990 euros. Because of that small price difference, the majority of buyers will go for a PHEV.

Conclusion review Volkswagen Passat

The new Volkswagen Passat is a space wonder, just like its brother: the Skoda Superb Combi. Especially as an R-Line, it is an incredibly fat family estate. The driving characteristics are excellent. The car is quiet, comfortable and economical, as long as you hang the PHEV’s battery on the charger. Only then can you benefit and enjoy the maximum performance potential of the car. In handling, the new Passat is a simple car. The learning curve is extremely low and the controls are logical. It also offers various storage options and provides space for the whole family. Even in the back seat it is comfortable. Cheap the Passat is not, and many options still need to come off the options list. But beyond that, it is a more than complete car. The only question is: do you go for a Superb Combi or, for 50,000 euros, do you still pick out a battery-electric car?