Next year, the Passat will be available for purchase.
A new batch of spy photos shows the next generation Volkswagen Passat. This time, it is the hybrid plug-in version of the German family car. This prototype was captured by Motor.es, our colleagues. It shows the charging port’s location and other details.
We’ve reported that the next-gen Passat is only available as a wagon. This is based on what we can see in these photos. The panel extends around the B-pillar and suggests a longer wheelbase. Remember that we are referring to the version for Europe as the Passat has been discontinued in the United States
The Passat Variant eHybrid is an electrified long-roof vehicle with a charging port at the front left fender. The only changes to the design of the regular combustion-powered model will be this and a modified Volkswagen logo. The Passat will be getting a new plug in hybrid powertrain, but there are more significant changes under the skin.
Motor.es reports that the 1.4-liter TSI turbocharged TSI engine in the current PHEV system has been replaced with a 1.5-liter engine featuring a cylinder activation function. A small electric motor will power the combustion unit. It will be housed in the dual-clutch auto gearbox. Volkswagen will add a second battery to the Passat PHEV, which, depending on the circumstances, should allow for an all-electric range up to 62 miles (100 km).
The exterior of the new Passat will have an evolutionary design, but the interior will be completely new in all versions. Photos earlier in the month showcased a new dashboard that featured a cleaner design and more modern gadgets. The large, tablet-style display will dominate the central console. Volkswagen will replace the traditional buttons for heating and cooling with capacitive touch controls to save money.
The new Passat will be available in VW’s European showrooms next year. It will be manufactured in Slovakia along with the Skoda Superb. The new Passat will also be joined by the Aero B, an all-electric sedan currently in development .