Volkswagen Passat - PASS MASTER

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This improved version of the MK8 Volkswagen Passat dials up the finesse still further and looks to build on its predecessor's phenomenal success. Jonathan Crouch reports.

Ten Second Review

We tend to think of cars in either 'premium' or 'volume' terms. Here though, is one that could comfortably fit within either definition, the revised version of the eighth generation Volkswagen Passat. Though targeted at the medium range Mondeo sector, it's long had an appeal stretching beyond, up towards the premium mid-sized executive saloon segment. Global buyers like that and the result is a worldwide favourite the Wolfsburg maker simply can't afford to get wrong. Hence the smarter looks, extra technology and efficient returns of this classy contender.

Background

As much as we like to think that the automotive world revolves around this sceptred isle, the truth is somewhat different. Here, we hold up the BMW 3 Series as the paragon of success in building sales volumes on the back of premium build quality, but in global terms the 3 Series is a bit-part player compared to Volkswagen's Passat. How successful is the Passat? You might want to sit down for this one. It sells more than the entire product line-ups of BMW or Audi; fully 1.1 million cars a year, with China and the US the biggest recipients.

It's a car that plays a very deft hand, bridging the gap between the mainstream and premium marques while delivering comfort and value that's often market-leading. It's why the Passat is now Volkswagen's most successful nameplate and the reason why Wolfsburg can't afford to get generation eight wrong. Hence this revised version.

Driving Experience

Under the bonnet, the key news for Passat buyers is the introduction of an extensively re-worked version of this model's volume 150PS diesel engine, now badged the 2.0 TDI EVO 150PS. As before, it can be had with a 7-speed DSG auto 'box and now features Active Cylinder Shutdown for greater efficiency, the first time that this feature has been fitted to a Volkswagen diesel engine. Diesel and 4MOTION 4WD feature as usual in the 'Alltrack' estate variant which gains a higher ride height for limited off road ability.

For petrol people, there's the VW Group's familiar 150PS 1.5-litre TSI EVO unit, available with either manual or DSG auto transmission. Up to a quarter of Passat sales are expected to be taken by the Plug-in hybrid petrol/electric GTE version, which mates a 1.4 TSI petrol engine with an electric motor. This derivative now uses an upgraded lithium-ion battery which now enables a longer 36-mile WLTP-rated driving range. Across the line-up, there's a new 'Travel Assist' feature which allows the car to be driven at highway speeds in partly automated mode.

Design and Build

The difficulty in attracting buyers away from the likes of BMW and Audi is that you need your product to offer all the attractions of a BMW and Audi but at a more competitive price. That includes looking as expensive as these brands, which is something the Passat has often struggled to achieve. Not any more. At least not from the outside, where this facelifted version of the eighth generation Passat looks sleek, chiselled and polished, with full-LED head and tail lights that emphasise the car's width.

Inside, cabin quality is at least the equal of what you'd find in more expensive premium brand mid-sized saloon, especially if you're able to stretch to one of the higher trim levels. The interior features a big central 8-inch screen and a set of optional digital 'virtual' dials. The seats, as in most Volkswagens, initially feel unyielding but are supremely comfortable over longer distances. Three adults can fit in the back too - there's far more space than you'd get in a 3 Series, a C-Class or an A4. The boot measures an enormous 586-litres, while the estate gets even more, with 650-litres available under the tonneau.

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