Volkswagen unveils lighter, more advanced 2015 Passat
Volkswagen has revealed the 2015 Passat, featuring a lighter body, stretched wheelbase, updated engines and a host of new technology, with orders opening in July.
Volkswagen has formally taken the wraps off the 2015 Passat, presenting a new generation of the saloon and estate for the European market. The new Passat is built on the MQB platform and arrives with revised dimensions, a lighter construction and a range of updated engines. Orders open in Germany on 10 July, with prices for the saloon starting at €25,875 and the estate at €25,950.
Dimensions and weight reduction
The new Passat measures 4,767mm in length, 1,832mm in width and 1,456mm in height. Compared to its predecessor, it is 2mm shorter, 12mm wider and 6mm lower, but the wheelbase extends by 79mm to 2,791mm. Track widths have grown as well, giving the car a broader stance. Volkswagen claims the use of lightweight materials and revised suspension components has cut up to 85kg from the kerbweight, with the lightest variant weighing 1,312kg. Suspension revisions include a 9kg weight saving, with MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear.
Cabin space and practicality
Interior space grows, with Volkswagen stating improved legroom, headroom and shoulder room for both rows. The boot capacity is now 586 litres for the saloon, an increase of 21 litres, and 650 litres for the estate, 47 litres more than before. These changes are intended to strengthen the Passat’s position among family and business buyers who value practicality.
Engines and hybrid option
The engine line-up includes several TSI petrol and TDI diesel units. Petrol options are a 1.4-litre TSI with either 125hp or 150hp, a 1.8 TSI with 180hp, and a 2.0 TSI with 220hp or 280hp. Diesel choices start with a 1.6 TDI at 120hp, plus 2.0 TDI versions offering 150hp, 190hp or 240hp. Volkswagen is also introducing a 1.4 TSI plug-in hybrid with a combined output of 211hp, reflecting the wider push towards electrification in the segment. For a detailed look at the engine range and equipment, seeVolkswagen reveals full engine range and equipment for 2015 Passat.
- 1.4 TSI petrol: 125hp, 150hp
- 1.8 TSI petrol: 180hp
- 2.0 TSI petrol: 220hp, 280hp
- 1.6 TDI diesel: 120hp
- 2.0 TDI diesel: 150hp, 190hp, 240hp
- 1.4 TSI plug-in hybrid: 211hp
Technology and safety features
High-specification models can be fitted with Volkswagen’s Active Info Display, a 12.3-inch TFT digital instrument cluster previously seen on the Audi TT. Safety and driver-assistance features available include City Emergency Braking, Traffic Jam Assist, Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert, Trailer Assist, 360-degree cameras and an Emergency Assist function. All versions are equipped with LED taillights, while LED headlights with Dynamic Light Assist are available as an option.
Market positioning and order details
With its revised platform, lower weight, more spacious interior and expanded technology offering, the 2015 Passat is aimed at both private and fleet buyers seeking a step up in refinement and efficiency. The new model will be available to order in Germany from 10 July, with deliveries expected to follow later in the year.
