Volkswagen Passat

Overview

The Passat has been one of the most popular C-segment sedans in Malaysia from the German automaker and has done a commendable job, especially considering that it completes with other stalwarts of the segment.

We can recall the time when the Passat facelift was spotted testing in semi-camouflage in September this year. However, just a few days back, the second generation of the Passat NMS (New Midsize Sedan) has debuted in China.

The present generation of the Passat does look like an estate sedan with a very sane design approach. It starts at a price tag of RM 176,690 (Comfortline), while the top end model goes up to RM 195,390.

Interior & Features

The cabin of the Volkswagen Passat is extremely urban and plush. The dashboard and centre console are very informative and a wooden trim passes across the front panel. There is an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display that has USB, SD slots, Bluetooth, Aux-in, etc. This system is coupled with an 8-speaker audio setup.

The front seat is 12-way electrically adjustable with massage and memory function and lumbar support. Leather wraps are given for the steering wheel, gear knob, and handbrakes. Moreover, the seats are covered with Vienna combination upholstery. There is also a huge 586 litre of cargo space. For additional comfort, there is the Climatronic climate control with a 3-zone system.

Exterior

The Volkswagen Passat looks very appealing to the eye with its sophisticated approach. It has a long hood with chrome slats on the grille. The headlamps are sleek and flow in from the grille seamlessly. The Comfortline variant comes with 17-inch alloy wheels and 215-section tyres while the Highline has 18-inch alloy wheels that are wrapped in 235-section tyres.

At the rear, the twin exhaust outlets are dipped in chrome. LED light units are given all around the car, including the headlamps, tail lights, and even the rear license plate lamp. Fog lamps are given for both front and rear and there is a headlight washer system as well.

Ride & Handling

The new Volkswagen Passat has all of the features to make it look and feel awesome. The power on the throttle is immense and the grunt is likeable. However, the outright power does feel safe even when you are cruising at high speeds. The big wheels and chunky tyres help in keeping the car firmly planted on the turf at all times.

Plus, being an estate sedan, the car is suspended over a very finely tuned setup that is neither too hard nor too soft. Hence, even if you are riding at the three-digit speed, a sudden bump on the road would not bring you face-to-face with a mishap, especially with the speed-sensitive steering.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

The Volkswagen Passat is sold in two engine guise, both of which are turbocharged. The smaller engine is a 1.8-litre four-cylinder unit that can make 180 PS of power at a maximum of 6,200 rpm along with a peak torque of 250 Nm, which comes in at as low as 1,250 rpm. The motor is mated to a 7-speed direct-shift gearbox.

On the other hand, the 2.0-litre variant is the outright powerful model with 220 PS of power that comes at the same revs on the tacho, while the maximum torque of 350 Nm kicks in from 1,500 rpm. Power is sent down to the wheels via a 6-speed direct-shift transmission unit.

Braking & Safety

Being a premium sedan, the Passat offers pretty healthy features on the safety parameter. For the basics, there are ABS and brake assist given as standard. Also, there is a brake-pad wear indicator too, which alerts the driver if it needs to be serviced or changed.

Airbags are given at the front and sides along with curtain units for both front and rear occupants. 3-point seatbelts are offered for all the passengers. As for the driver's assistance, there are features like electronic stability control, cruise control, and electronic differential lock.

Verdict

The Volkswagen Passat is very powerful, for sure. Plus, the quality of being a sophisticated sedan makes it even more desirable. The long hood and extended boot design make it look grand and luxurious. Added to that, the safety features are quite on the brighter side, making the car a wonderful value for the money paid.