Volkswagen has introduced a new iteration of the Passat, a model that has been absent from the U.S. market since the 2022 model year. However, this well-known nameplate continues to be present in international markets, albeit in the form of a sedan and wagon that differ from the version once available in the U.S.
This unveiling marks the emergence of a fresh generation of the global Passat, a celebration of the nameplate’s 50-year history. The official presentation is scheduled for the upcoming 2023 Munich auto show in Germany.
The latest Passat iteration will be exclusively offered as a wagon, referred to by Volkswagen as the “Variant.” It is important to note that this model will not be sold in the U.S., and there are no intentions to introduce a sedan variant. The rest of the world can anticipate its availability for purchase in early 2024.
Comparatively, this new model is both larger and more robust than its predecessor, measuring a length of approximately 193.6 inches, which is an increase of 5.6 inches over the outgoing model. The wheelbase has also been extended by about two inches, resulting in enhanced passenger space. When the rear seats are folded, storage capacity reaches nearly 68 cubic feet.
Regarding powertrain options, the new Passat offers an array of turbocharged gasoline and diesel engines, with some configurations featuring mild- and plug-in hybrid systems. The most powerful of these is a plug-in hybrid arrangement, boasting a combined output of 268 horsepower. Its battery, a 19.7-kWh unit, is estimated to provide an electric driving range of nearly 60 miles.
Turning to the interior design, Volkswagen has made notable enhancements to the cabin’s aesthetics and technology. Standard features include a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch infotainment screen. Additionally, the latter can be upgraded to an available 15.0-inch unit.
Beneath the surface, the vehicle is underpinned by an updated version of Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, designed to accommodate high-volume, front-wheel-drive vehicles with internal-combustion engines. This platform has been incorporated into various models within the VW Group brand portfolio, including the latest Golf and an upcoming Skoda Superb, set to be unveiled soon.
Interestingly, the Passat shares its underpinnings with the Skoda Superb, forming a pair of closely related vehicles. However, the Skoda is anticipated to be offered in both sedan and wagon body styles.
Production of the new Passat will be based at a VW Group manufacturing facility situated in Bratislava, Slovakia.
While the latest Passat will not reach the American market, Volkswagen is gearing up to introduce the 2024 ID.7 electric vehicle, a mid-size hatchback, to the U.S. market in the near future. Additionally, there are indications that an ID.7 wagon variant, currently undergoing testing, might also make its way to the U.S.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Passat Variant
What is the latest Volkswagen Passat Variant?
The latest Volkswagen Passat Variant is a new generation of the Passat model, introduced to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the nameplate’s introduction. It is exclusively available as a wagon, showcasing a larger size and more powerful performance.
When will the new Passat Variant be available for purchase?
The new Passat Variant is set to start sales in early 2024 in markets outside of the United States.
What are the notable changes in the new Passat Variant’s size and design?
Compared to its predecessor, the new Passat Variant is approximately 5.6 inches longer, providing more space for passengers and storage. It is exclusively offered as a wagon body style.
What powertrain options are available for the new Passat Variant?
The new Passat Variant offers a range of powertrain options, including turbocharged gasoline and diesel engines. Notably, a plug-in hybrid version boasts a combined output of 268 horsepower and an estimated electric range of nearly 60 miles.
How has the interior of the new Passat Variant been upgraded?
The cabin design of the new Passat Variant features improved materials and larger screens. It includes a standard 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.9-inch infotainment screen, with an option to upgrade to a 15.0-inch unit.
What platform is the new Passat Variant built on?
The new Passat Variant is built on an updated version of Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, designed for high-volume, front-wheel-drive vehicles with internal-combustion engines.
Will the new Passat Variant be available in the United States?
No, the new Passat Variant will not be available for purchase in the United States. Volkswagen has no plans to introduce it to the U.S. market.
What is the relation between the Passat Variant and the Skoda Superb?
The Passat Variant and the Skoda Superb share the same underpinnings. However, the Skoda Superb is expected to be offered in both sedan and wagon body styles.
What other Volkswagen vehicles are coming to the U.S. market?
Volkswagen plans to introduce the 2024 ID.7 electric vehicle, a mid-size hatchback, to the U.S. market soon. There are also hints of a potential ID.7 wagon variant undergoing testing for the U.S.
Where will the new Passat Variant be produced?
The new Passat Variant will be manufactured at a Volkswagen Group plant located in Bratislava, Slovakia.
More about Passat Variant
- Volkswagen Official Website
- 2023 Munich Auto Show
- Volkswagen Passat Variant Overview
- Volkswagen Group MQB Platform
- Skoda Superb Information
10 comments
whoa, vw’s got a new passat variant? that’s cool. bigger, stronger, hybrid… kinda wish they’d bring it to the US tho.
bigger screens in the cabin? count me in! but ugh, wish they told us more about the tech features.
can’t wait for the 2023 munich auto show! vw’s got some cool stuff lined up.
bratislava’s the place where it’s at! vw’s got it covered for passat variant production.
seriously vw? no passat variant for the US? at least we’re getting the ID.7, that’s something.
so, passat variant and skoda superb are like siblings? but superb gets a sedan too? curious choice.
passat’s new hybrid setup is impressive! 268hp and 60-mile electric range, woah! gotta love those green options.
passat variant’s global debut sounds exciting. but why no sedan option? vw’s really into wagons now, huh?
id.7 sounds neat, but gimme that id.7 wagon! electric wagons are the future.
thanks for the FAQ, clears up a lot of questions about this new passat variant. loving the details!