SPY PICS: New Volkswagen Passat outed

Our spy photographers have captured the next-generation Volkswagen Passat (B9) testing overseas this week for the first time, ahead of its expected world debut in 2023.

It’s the first time the all-new Passat has been spotted in the metal, however, the example caught testing in snowy conditions doesn’t appear to have reached its final form, wearing a number of borrowed bits – including the current model’s headlights and tail-lights – in order to conceal its appearance.

Expected to be unveiled in production form next year, the new Passat should be on sale globally by 2024, when it’s tipped to be available only with a wagon body, following reports that Volkswagen would end production of the Passat sedan due to slow sales.

The flagship Volkswagen Arteon is said to take over as the German brand’s (more expensive) medium-large saloon offering.

Unlike the current Passat, which is powered exclusively by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine here in Australia, the next-gen Passat is tipped to get a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option, along with new petrol and diesel options. Although Volkswagen is yet to confirm the line-up.

A replacement for the higher riding Passat Alltrack crossover wagon is also tipped to be in the works, but it’s unlikely to be launched until after the new Passat goes on sale.

According to reports, the new Passat will be built in Bratislava (Slovakia), alongside its twin-under-the-skin, the Skoda Superb, with which it shares the same MQB underpinnings.

It’s also likely to stretch in size, bringing a more spacious cabin for passengers and a more generous boot, however, we’ll have to wait for full details closer to its arrival.

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