While the European 2019 Passat is still a few months away from its official introduction, in China, Volkswagen and partner company SAIC have prepared the redesigned 2019 Passat NMS.
Despite some similarities with the European iteration, this model believed to be (or at least related to) the global Passat NMS, which is also sold in the United States. However, it’s too early to say if the North American version will benefit from the same design updates, or if the manufacturer is planning something different.
The D-segment sedan looks to be inspired by both the Arteon and the China-only Lavida. Notice the larger grille that dips into the front bumper, similar LED headlamps, reworked taillights and rear bumper. It also gets the ‘Passat’ lettering on the boot lid, right under the ‘VW’ logo.
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At 4,993mm (196.6in) long, 1,836mm (72.3in) wide, and 1,469mm (57.8in) tall, the car has a larger footprint compared to the North American iteration. Its wheelbase is longer, too, at 2,871mm (113in).
Made in China, for China, by the Shanghai-Volkswagen (SAIC) joint venture, this Volkswagen Passat will launch with two engines options: a 186hp or 220hp turbocharged 2.0-liter unit, although a plug-in hybrid derivative is said to come in the near future. Pricing should start at around 210,000 yuan ($32,612) locally when it goes on sale this fall.
What about the (unrelated) European model?
European 2019 VW Passat B8 facelift pictured
In Europe, the 2019 Volkswagen Passat will continue to battle it out with the Renault Talisman, Ford Mondeo, Peugeot 508 and Opel/Vauxhall Insignia, among others. The German manufacturer will likely pull the covers off in the coming months, while also revealing some engine upgrades. A new turbo’d V6 lump could power the flagship R version, whereas the GTE PHEV might offer an improved zero-emissions range.
North America, on the other hand, will welcome a new Passat next year. The announcement was made during the 2018 Detroit Auto Show by the company’s chief, Dr. Herbert Diess, who also confirmed new products, including battery-powered models.
* Article has been corrected, as the original version wrongly stated that VW-SAIC’s Passat is related to the European model. This model is based on VW’s global Passat NMS (New Midsize Sedan)
