Volkswagen USA is
cutting the 2019 Passat lineup to a third of what it was for the previous model
year, and the midsize sedan will no longer offer a V6 engine option. The Car
Connection talked to VW and learned that the Passat will only be available in
Wolfsburg Edition and SE R-Line trim levels for the 2019 model year. That means
the previously available S, SEL, and GT grades will be dropped.
Furthermore,
customers will have a more limited offer when it comes to powertrains too, as the
280-hp 3.6-liter V6 will no longer be available. That will leave Passat buyers
a single engine choice, the 174-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit
mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
According to VW,
the 2019 Passat Wolfsburg Edition will come equipped as standard with 17-inch
alloys, synthetic leather upholstery, keyless ignition, automatic emergency
braking, and blind-spot monitors. Optional extras will include 18-inch rims and
a moonroof.
The SE R-Line will
add goodies such as LED headlights and taillights, adaptive cruise control,
parking sensors, and active lane control. An upgraded infotainment system with
navigation and Fender audio system will be standard as well.
The reorganization
of the 2019 Passat lineup means that the sporty-flavored Passat GT launched at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show will remain a single-year model. VW is
yet to announce when the 2019 Passat will go on sale.
The automaker’s
decision to simplify the Passat offer for the 2019MY has a lot to do with midsize
sedans falling from grace with customers. While the Tiguan has become the
brand’s best-selling model in the US, Passat sales dropped 34 percent during
the first seven months of 2018. At the same time, VW has confirmed an all-new
US-spec Passat will arrive in 2019, so reshuffling the lineup might just be
part of the preparations for it.
