Volkswagen Passat Variant 2024: ninth generation is packed with technology

MQB Evo platform

You’re looking at the ninth-generation Volkswagen Passat. Uniquely, this model is the first Volkswagen to be built on the new MQB Evo platform. This platform not only allows implementation of the latest driver assistance systems, but also accommodates plug-in hybrid powertrains. Speaking of which: Volkswagen is delivering the new Passat Variant as two PHEV variants, so-called eHybrids. The base version has a system output of 150 kW (204 hp) and the top version has 200 kW (272 hp).

Electric driving range

Both versions use a new 19.7 kWh battery, good for an electric driving range of about 100 kilometers. Combined with a 45-liter gasoline tank, Volkswagen promises a range of up to 1,000 kilometers. The battery is charged at 11 kW at a home wallbox and other AC charging points. In addition, both Passat Variant eHybrid models can now also charge new energy at DC fast charging stations with a charging capacity of up to 50 kW.

Why these plug-in hybrids? About 95 percent of all car trips are shorter than 50 kilometers and 99 percent are even shorter than 100 kilometers. With a Volkswagen Passat Variant eHybrid, these trips can now be driven purely electric. Both plug-in hybrids combine a 1.5 TSI evo2 turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor.

Other engine variants

For the first time, the new Volkswagen Passat Variant will also be available with a 48 V mild hybrid powertrain (eTSI with 110 kW / 150 hp). This MHEV also features a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (1.5 TSI evo2). The block has Active Cylinder Management (ACTplus). As a mild hybrid drive, the gasoline engine is coupled with a 48 V lithium-ion battery and a 48 V belt starter generator.

Also on the menu are two turbo gasoline engines (2.0 TSI) with 150 kW (204 hp) and 195 kW (265 hp) and three turbo diesel engines (2.0 TDI) with 90 kW (122 hp), 110 kW (150 hp) and 142 kW (193 hp). Which powertrains are coming to the Netherlands is not yet known. A DSG automatic transmission is always standard, as is front-wheel drive. Some top versions have 4Motion drive.

The engines of the 2024 Volkswagen Passat Variant

In the Netherlands, only the plug-in hybrids and the mild-hybrid powertrain appear on the price list.

Interior Volkswagen Passat

The interior of the new Volkswagen Passat Variant looks typical Volkswagen, with a particular focus on large displays. Volkswagen provides several displays, including a 12.9-inch display with Full HD resolution. Optional is a 15-inch touchscreen with 2,240 x 1,260 pixels. The driver overlooks a digital instrument cluster with a 10.25-inch display and an image resolution of 1,280 x 480 pixels. A head-up display is possible.

Dimensions Volkswagen Passat Variant 2024

The wheelbase of the new Passat Variant has grown to 2,841 mm (+50 mm). The length comes out to 4,917 mm (+144 mm). Width increased by 20 mm to 1,852 mm. Its height comes out to 1,506 mm, the same as its predecessor. All in all, then, the ninth-generation Passat has grown considerably. Thanks to a 50 mm longer wheelbase, the model also has 50 mm more legroom in the rear. The luggage compartment holds up to 1,920 liters (+140 liters) when the rear seatbacks are folded down. The capacity of the luggage compartment in normal condition has increased by 40 liters to 690 liters.

Versions

The new Passat will be available in the four equipment lines, namely Passat, Business, Elegance and R-Line. The model comes standard with the new MIB4 display, Car2X warning system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, automatic air conditioning, USB-C ports with 45 W charging power (front), roof rails (in black) and numerous assistance systems. In the latter case, consider Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Side Assist (lane change assistance), Front Assist (Autonomous Emergency Braking), Lane Assist (lane assist), Park Distance Control (audible and visual warning signals when there are obstacles in front and behind), a rearview camera and Dynamic Road Sign Display using the front camera. Also LED lighting standard.

The Elegance and R-Line versions are the top models with the most complete equipment. Think IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights and LED taillight clusters with animated turn signals, seat heating and expanded seat massage (12 instead of three pneumatic massage elements), keyless locking and starting system Keyless Access, a power tailgate with Easy Open/Easy Close, expanded backlighting and voice control.

Sport seats with integrated headrests are installed in the Volkswagen Passat Variant R-Line. The front and rear of the Passat Variant R-Line feature sporty R-design. The Passat Variant Elegance sits on 17-inch alloy wheels. For the R-Line, Volkswagen supplies 18-inch alloy wheels.