VW unveils eighth generation Passat

VolkswagenVolkswagenGermany, 1938 > present98 models
9654 photos
31 videos
has just unveiled the latest generation of one of the most traditional models of the German brand, the PassatVolkswagen PassatGermany, 1973 > present8 series
305 versions
553 photos
3 videos
. For this eighth generation VW decided to raise the bar in the mid-segment of the model so that it could compete besides the usual Ford MondeoFord MondeoUnited Kingdom, 1993 > present5 series
355 versions
474 photos
1 video
and Opel InsigniaFord ZephyrUnited States of America, 1950 > 19724 series
11 versions
6 photos
, ​​able to steal customers from the BMW 3 SeriesBMW 3 SeriesGermany, 1975 > present6 series
953 versions
1566 photos
11 videos
and Mercedes C-ClassMercedes-Benz C-ClassGermany, 1983 > present5 series
583 versions
781 photos
.

With higher quality levels of equipment and more cutting-edge technological features, the new Passat is smaller, but the use of space is more efficient thanks to the adoption of the flexible MQB modular platform of the Volkswagen Group.

The new Passat will be available with 10 turbocharged direct injection petrol and diesel engines with a power range between 120PS and 280 PS. All engines meet Euro 6 emissions standards and both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by 20 percent. All versions are equipped with a start-stop system and regenerative braking technology.

For the first time, the Passat will also be offered in a plug-in hybrid version that combines a 154PS TSI petrol engine and a 107PS electric motor. With a combined output of 211PS this vehicle will become the most powerful plug-in hybrid from Volkswagen. The vehicle can also circulate in zero emission mode, since it has an electric range of 50 km.

According to the President of Volkswagen, Martin Winterkorn, "The new Passat has a better value for money, because it transfers technology and resources to the mid-size segment, which are usually limited to cars in a higher category. The car was designed to be a premium car without the cost and is designed to be attractive without envy. "

Regarding the design of the model Volkswagen kept it "clean" and with similar cues of other models of the brand's range. The vehicle is characterized by small protrusions, subtle crease lines on the bodywork small spacing between the panels and little detailing.

The Passat is available with rear LED headlights and LED headlights or Halogen, depending on the version. Dynamic Light Assist system, which automatically adjusts the intensity of the lights when traffic is detected is included in the list of options.

With 4767 mm long, 1832 mm wide and 1456 mm tall, the new Passat is 2 mm shorter, 12 mm wider and 6 mm lower than its predecessorVolkswagen Passat Gen.7 [B7]Germany, 2011 > 2014115 versions
306 photos
2 videos
. Despite the reduction in the external dimensions, Volkswagen says the new Passat has a larger interior space. The load capacity of 650 liters is 47 liters larger than the previous generation. Maximum capacity increases to 1780 liters when the rear seats are folded down.

One of the novelties of the new generation is the introduction of a TFT screen 12.3 inch TFT. Also new is the new Volkswagen HUD screen that uses a separate glass panel placed on top of the dashboard to project information relevant to the driver's line of vision. The Passat also gets the newer options of the Modular Infotainment System, including Volkswagen Car-Net app that allows connectivity inside the vehicle.

Among the long list of safety technology are included the Side Assist systems with Rear Traffic Alert, which warns of traffic in the blind spot, the Traffic Jam Assist, which automatically speeds up and slows down the car in heavy traffic until a predetermined speed, the Emergency Assist, which can potentially stop the car when the driver is wounded or incapacitated and even the latest generation of Front Assist with City Emergency Braking system that combines radar and camera sensors add pedestrian detection.

In addition to the sedan and wagon variants Volkswagen will launch in the future the Alltrack and CC variants. Since launching in 1972 about 22 million Passats left the production line at Volkswagen.