Volkswagen India has come up with a
Connect variant for the Passat. Dubbed simply as the VW Passat Connect, the new
model has a base price of INR 25.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Pan-India).
The VW Passat Connect features the ‘Volkswagen
Connect’ advanced telematics and vehicle assistance system. The driver can
connect the car to his smartphone through a plug and play data dongle to the
onboard diagnostics (OBD) port of the vehicle. Once installed and connected via
Bluetooth, the app enables the user to use connected features like trip
tracking, fuel cost monitor, driving behaviour, location sharing, SOS calls and
service appointments. The Volkswagen Connect application is compatible with
both Android and iOS platforms.
It is powered by a 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine that outputs a
maximum power of 177 PS along with a peak torque of 350 Nm. The motor comes
mated to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The claimed fuel efficiency
of the powertrain has been rated at 17.42 km/l. The vehicle comes equipped with
a ‘Think Blue Trainer’, which gives the driver tips for improving the car's
efficiency.
Features that the VW Passat comes kitted out with
include dynamic chassis control, nine airbags, hill-start assist and auto-hold,
Nappa leather seats, three-zone climate control, LED headlamps with DRLs, LED
tail-lamps, reverse camera with a 360-degree view, park sensors,electric
adjustable front seats with heating and massage functions, and a hands-free
boot opening mechanism.
The VW Passat Connect is available in two variants -
Comfortline and Highline. The former costs INR 25.99 lakh while the latter has
been priced at INR 28.99 lakh. The new model rivals the likes of Skoda Superb
and Toyota Camry Hybrid.
