Volkswagen launches 2012 Passat online configurator for US buyers
US customers can now build and price the 2012 Volkswagen Passat using the brand’s online configurator, with base prices starting at $19,995 and a wide range of options.
Volkswagen of America has launched its online configurator for the 2012 Passat, giving US buyers the ability to build, price and customise the new saloon ahead of dealer arrivals. The tool, now live on the company’s website, covers the full range of trims, engines and options for the Tennessee-built sedan.
Pricing and trim levels for the US Passat
The 2012 Passat configurator lists a starting price of $19,995 for the entry-level S model, with the range topping out at $32,950 for a fully optioned SEL with the 3.6-litre VR6. All prices exclude destination charges, which are calculated at the end of the configuration process. The three main trim levels, S, SE and SEL, cover a broad spread of equipment and interior finishes, with each offering distinct combinations of features and upgrades.
Volkswagen offers three engines for the US Passat: a 2.5-litre five-cylinder petrol with 170 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque (standard on S and SE), a 2.0-litre TDI Clean Diesel producing 140 hp and 236 lb-ft, and a 3.6-litre VR6 delivering 280 hp and 258 lb-ft. The five-cylinder comes with a five-speed manual as standard, with a six-speed automatic available. The TDI and VR6 pair with Volkswagen’s six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic. Highway fuel economy for the TDI is quoted at 43 mpg, with an estimated range of up to 800 miles per tank. The VR6 returns up to 28 mpg on the highway.
Customisation options and online features
The configurator allows buyers to select exterior colours, interior trims, wheel designs and additional options such as navigation and premium audio. A large visual preview updates as selections are made, letting users see the effect of each choice. Once a configuration is complete, the summary tool calculates the total price, including destination charges, and provides links to contact a dealer or request a test drive.
- Select model, trim and engine
- Choose exterior colour and wheels
- Configure interior options and packages
- View real-time visual updates of selections
- Calculate final price with summary tool
- Contact dealer or request test drive directly
US-built Passat targets mainstream saloon buyers
The 2012 Passat is built at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga, Tennessee plant, reflecting the brand’s focus on the US market with a larger, more affordable saloon than its European counterpart. The online configurator is part of Volkswagen’s strategy to streamline the buying process and give customers more control over specification before visiting a showroom.
