Volkswagen reveals first official images of new Passat
Volkswagen has released the first undisguised photos of the seventh-generation Passat, showing a sharper design and previewing new safety and comfort technology for both saloon and estate models.
Volkswagen has published the first official, undisguised images of the new Passat, confirming the sharper, more upmarket styling for the seventh generation. Both saloon and estate versions will launch together, with sales set to begin in late 2010 across Europe.
The new Passat’s front end adopts a more angular look, with a chrome-edged grille and headlamps echoing the larger Phaeton. The bonnet and bumper lines are more pronounced than the outgoing model, and the rear receives subtle tweaks to the lights and bootlid. The estate carries the same changes, with a longer roofline and reshaped tailgate.
Inside, Volkswagen has focused on material quality and refinement. New seats, door trims and ambient lighting aim to lift the Passat above mainstream rivals. The centre console and instrument panel have been redesigned, and the company claims improved sound insulation thanks to new dashboard and window materials.
New safety and driver assistance systems
The seventh-generation Passat introduces several new safety features for its class. A fatigue detection system is standard from the Comfortline trim upwards, monitoring steering input and advising the driver to take a break when necessary. Volkswagen also offers a city emergency braking function, bundled with adaptive cruise control and Front Assist. This system can automatically apply the brakes at speeds below 30 km/h to help avoid or reduce the severity of low-speed collisions.
Other available assistance systems include Park Assist II (which can steer the car into parking spaces), Side Assist for blind-spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition. High-spec models can be fitted with Dynamic Light Assist, which automatically adjusts the main beam to avoid dazzling other drivers, and Lane Assist to help keep the vehicle within road markings.
Engine range and efficiency improvements
Volkswagen offers the new Passat with a choice of ten engines, all claimed to be more efficient than before. The range starts with a 1.6-litre TDI diesel producing 105 PS, with official combined fuel consumption as low as 4.2 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 109 g/km. The petrol line-up includes a 1.4 TSI with 122 PS, while the most powerful option is a 3.6-litre V6 delivering 300 PS. BlueMotion Technology features across the range, including stop/start and energy recuperation systems.
Both the saloon and estate offer similar efficiency figures, with the estate typically using no more than 0.1 litres per 100 km extra. All models meet at least Euro 5 emissions standards, and the BlueTDI variant already complies with Euro 6.
Positioning and equipment grades
The new Passat will be sold in three main trims: Trendline, Comfortline and Highline. Entry-level models cover the essentials, while Comfortline adds features like fatigue detection and upgraded seats. Highline brings further luxury touches and access to the full suite of driver aids. Volkswagen is positioning the Passat to bridge the gap between mainstream family cars and the entry-level premium segment, emphasising quality and technology.
