VW Passat: World debut at NAIAS

Volkswagen is presenting to the world at the North American International Auto Show, its’ all-new Passat, a car that will have an important role in the growth of Volkswagen in the US market.

The all-new Passat has been designed in Germany but will be produced in America. The new model was developed to match the tastes and lifestyles of Americans. It is a larger vehicle that comes with premium features and handling characteristics to best suit the American style. The new mid-sized sedan will be built in Chattanooga, Tennessee, at the world’s newest, most advanced and environmentally responsible auto assembly plant.

Volkswagen will be offering the new Passat with three different engine options: a 2.5L gasoline engine, a remarkably eco-friendly 2.0L TDI Clean Diesel and a powerful 3.6L VR6.

Making its first appearance in the Passat, the 2.5L five cylinder engine has an output of 170hp. It will be fitted as standard with a 5 speed manual transmission but an automatic 6-speed transmission will also be available.

The new Passat will also have an eco-friendly drivetrain. The four cylinder 2.0L TDI Clean Diesel is described by Volkswagen as having the power of a six cylinder gasoline engine and the fuel economy of a hybrid.

Finally, the passat will also be offered in a more powerful version. The 3.6 liter VR6 will be delivering power and luxury-class driving comfort, making the Passat a top-flight sport sedan.

In terms of design, the all-new Volkswagen Passat is clearly a reflection of the “design DNA” developed by Walter de Silva, the Italian design chief for the Volkswagen Group and Klaus Bischoff, the German design leader for the Volkswagen Brand. The clean design of new model is dominated by the horizontal lines and elements, which are supposed to give the car a more sophisticated look.

Together with the all-new Jetta, the new Passat is expected to be a sales leader in an attempt by Volkswagen to increase market share in the United States. Betting on a diversified portfolio, the German brand wants to offer accessible cars but also vehicles for car enthusiasts.