New design, new dimensions. Volkswagen has carried the design of the tradition-rich Passat series into the modern era with the debut of the ninth generation. Compared to the predecessor, the surfaces are more sculptural, the lines more dynamic, and the dimensions larger. The 50 mm longer wheelbase (2,841 mm) makes the difference here. The overall length of 4,917 mm corresponds to an additional 144 mm. The increase in wheelbase and overall length means more legroom in the rear and more space in the luggage compartment. The width of the Passat has grown moderately by 20 mm to 1,852 mm. At 1,497 mm, the height has remained similar to the predecessor. The longer length with practically unchanged height results in more dynamic proportions.
Front end with new LED headlights. The aerodynamic (drag coefficient of 0.25) and powerful design of the front of the Passat Variant characterises its superior presence. Every detail is new. Take the bonnet, for example: while the predecessor’s bonnet was higher in the middle than at the sides, the new bonnet is now lower in the middle. It rises sculpturally outwards with sharp lines and forms powerful wings. The new LED headlights, with their two modules, provide a characteristic look in combination with the narrow LED daytime running lights above them. These two daytime running light elements are linked to each other by means of a horizontal LED strip in the radiator grille. The visually continuous light strip gives the Volkswagen a wide and elegant look. Volkswagen optionally offers the Passat with a new generation of the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights. These come with a new high-performance main beam that has a significantly increased luminous range.
Silhouette with a sharp undercut. With its powerful side body surfaces, a sharp undercut as a character line (at the height of the door handles), the significantly larger wheelbase and the long side window areas, the Passat Variant exhibits dynamism and elegance all of its own. At the front and back, the undercut and surface design over the wheel housings form powerful shoulder sections in a slim silhouette. The striking D-pillars match this sporty image with their more pronounced forward angle and more dynamic look – this shows that an enhanced dynamic design and an increase in luggage compartment capacity (40 litres more) do not have to be mutually exclusive. Under the slightly flared wheel housings, the Passat Variant sports up to 19-inch wheels.
Rear end with new horizontal LED strip. Similar to the front end and sides, the rear of the new Passat has a clean and powerful design. The continuous LED tail light clusters, which are used in this product line for the first time, emphasise the width of the body and have a transparent and technical look with their new 3D light signature. In functional terms, the LED elements provide an optimal signal effect. In the upper part of the boot lid, the large roof spoiler and the side air guide elements on the D-pillars stand out. In combination, these aerodynamic features reduce turbulence at the rear and contribute to low energy consumption and long range together with a diffuser below the bumper.
Minimum drag for maximum efficiency. The Passat Variant is a five-seater vehicle with a luggage compartment capacity of up to 1,920 litres. And yet, its aerodynamics are better than most sports vehicles. The drag coefficient was improved from 0.31 to the aforementioned 0.25. The aerodynamics make a significant contribution to the all-new Passat Variant’s increased efficiency and economy. The aerodynamic top values of the new Passat Variant were achieved through the optimal body shape, fine tuning down to the last detail and technical aerodynamic features. The technical details include an electrically controlled radiator blind that provides cooling as needed. The aerodynamic fine tuning is evident wherever you look. In the front section, disruptive air turbulence is minimised by means of air curtains in the bumper; the targeted air flows provide optimum air circulation around the front wheels and cool the brakes. In addition, the underbody up to the rear diffuser was elaborately integrated into the aerodynamic design. The new exterior mirrors are designed to minimise the area of attack for the wind. At the rear, the air guide elements on the D-pillars reduce air turbulence together with the roof spoiler.