2024 Volkswagen Passat makes global debut

The ninth-generation Volkswagen Passat has been revealed as the first model underpinned by the VW Group’s new MQB Evo platform, ahead of its first public appearance at the IAA Mobility show in Munich next week and its European release in early 2024.

But while the new wagon-only VW Passat is likely to preview key technologies destined for other future models from the German car-maker, it won’t be coming Down Under.

That’s because Volkswagen Australia is freeing up space for its long-awaited wave of EVs, led by the VW ID.4 and ID.5 electric SUVs in the second quarter of 2024, apparently leaving no room for the new Passat – or the flagship Arteon sedan and all Golf wagons, which will also be axed.

So what are we missing out on? The new Passat is bigger, more advanced and more efficient than ever, thanks in part to its new platform but also its bigger body, new cabin tech and upgraded powertrains.

The larger new body draws design inspiration from the previously mentioned electric SUV duo and easily distinguishes the new model from any of its eight predecessors, while the MQB Evo platform is claimed to deliver a more sophisticated drive experience.

One of the platform’s chief goals was to be more accommodating to electrification technology, and so the new Passat set to be offered in other markets with up to seven powertrains including petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid (petrol) and plug-in hybrid.

Outputs of the new systems range from 110kW to 200kW, with the most powerful unit being the second-tier PHEV system.

Both PHEVs blend a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with an electric motor and a 19.7kWh battery to offer 100km of electric range, paired with the 45-litre fuel tank to provide a theoretical vehicle range of “around” 1000km.

Transmission duties across the range will be taken care of by either a six-speed (PHEV) or seven-speed (petrol, diesel, MHEV) dual-clutch automatic transmission, while all-wheel drive will be included on top-spec petrol and diesel variants.

Adding to the enhanced sophistication is a tech-heavy cabin design led by a 12.9- or 15.0-inch (variant dependant) infotainment interface oriented towards the driver and powered by the latest-generation operating software, which in turn is said to bring new graphics, faster input responses and more advanced voice recognition.

Also included out of the box is a new windscreen head-up display, digital instrument cluster, steering column gear selector, smartphone mirroring, climate control, LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, double-glazed side windows and redesigned seats.

Four trim levels will be offered in Europe – Passat, Business, Elegance and R-Line – each building on the previous grade’s equipment list and design cues.

“Exactly 50 years ago, one of the most successful Volkswagen vehicles was launched: the Passat,” VW said.

“With more than 34 million units sold worldwide, it is the top-selling Volkswagen of all time after the Golf and ahead of the Beetle.

“The new Passat will be launched [globally] as a versatile Variant [wagon] in the first quarter of 2024.”

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