All-new Volkswagen Passat nears public debut

The all-new Volkswagen Passat is close to its public debut, as these latest spy shots show. Based on the largest version of the MQB platform, the Passat is one of VW’s most important models. In 2013 the Passat family was the fifth best-selling VW brand model globally, shifting 651,027 units, down from 705,784 in 2012.

The mechanical make-up of the new Passat will closely mirror that of the current Volkswagen Golf, with a range of downsized turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, the option of all-wheel drive and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. 

It’s thought that the Passat will be one of the first models to get a new 10-speed DSG transmission and a future super-efficient diesel engine that uses 3000bar injection pressures, a good third higher than today’s new diesels. The most economical version of the car is likely to have CO2 emissions as low as 89g/km.

VW sources have revealed that the new car will be among the largest models based on the MQB architecture. Only the 4900mm-long production version of the CrossBlue SUV will be larger. 

The Passat’s extra rear seat space is essential for Chinese markets. This should also ensure that the popular Passat estate is the most spacious model in this class. The coupé-like four-door CC model will be part of the new Passat family line-up, too.