Volkswagen of America put the Passat out to pasture, but the model is alive and well in Europe where the company has introduced an all-new wagon
Set to be launched early next year, the 2024 Passat Variant features a streamlined design that enables it to be the most aerodynamic Passat ever created.
Besides being more aerodynamic, the model can be equipped with an aggressive front bumper. It’s joined by a minimalist grille that features a LED strip, which flows into slender daytime running lights. This gives the model an illuminated unibrow at night.
More: Wagon-Only 2024 VW Passat Is Europe’s Refuge From EVs And SUVs
Pictures: Baldauf / ten Brink for CarScoops
Elsewhere, there’s a sculpted hood and edgy LED headlights. They’re joined by streamlined bodywork, a gently sloping roof, and a more curvaceous rear end with a horizontal light strip that has a three dimensional appearance.
The wagon is nearly 5.7 inches (144 mm) larger than its predecessor as it measures 193.6 inches (4,917 mm) long. The wheelbase also grows 2 inches (50 mm) to span 111.9 inches (2,841 mm).
While the exterior design is fairly evolutionary, the cabin has joined the 21st century. As a result, it has a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a new 12.9-inch infotainment system. If the latter is too small, you can opt for a larger 15-inch display.
The changes don’t end there as the model adopts a minimalist center console as the shifter moves to the steering column. Other highlights include upgraded materials, improved noise insulation, and illuminated trim. Buyers can also get an improved head-up display as well as new ergoActive front seats, which offer 14-way power adjustment as well as a pneumatic pressure point massage that utilizes ten different chambers.
Thanks to the increased dimensions, rear seat passengers will find an extra 2 inches (50 mm) of legroom. The good news doesn’t end there as the wagon now has 67.8 cubic feet (1,920 liters) of cargo room, which is 4.9 cubic feet (140 liters) more than its predecessor.
The wagon rides on the MQB evo platform and is available with plug-in hybrid powertrains that consist of a turbocharged 1.5-liter TSI engine, a 19.7 kWh battery, and an electric motor. They have outputs of 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) as well as an electric-only range of around 62 miles (100 km). The models also have an improved 11 kW AC charging capability as well as DC fast charging at up to 50 kW.
Besides the plug-in hybrids, there’s a mild hybrid with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine developing 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS). Customers can also opt for 2.0-liter TSI engines with outputs of 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 262 hp (195 kW / 265 PS). Diesel fans will find 2.0-liter TDIs developing 121 hp (90 kW / 122 PS), 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS), and 190 hp (142 kW / 193 PS). Depending on the powertrain, the car will be equipped with a six- or seven-speed transmission as well as front- or all-wheel drive.
