The future of the Volkswagen Passat appears to have been
decided. The popular mid-size car, which is built on the old PQ46 platform for
North America and on the MQB architecture for Europe, is understood to
transition to an updated version of the MQB, and to be the same car all over
the world.
Quoting inside sources, Autocar reports
that it will launch in the UK in 2023 and will be sold alongside the
similar-sized Arteon and an upcoming EV, previewed by the ID Vizzion Concept.
It will be offered with front- and all-wheel drive, and likely in two body
styles, sedan (or liftback) and estate, plus probably an Alltrack crossover
variant, with increased ground clearance and plastic cladding on the lower
parts of the body.
The new construction will continue to
support plug-in hybrid powertrains, while a battery-electric model is not out
of the question either. These will join the regular petrol and diesel power
units, perhaps with 48V tech. The design of the new generation Passat, which
will be known as the B9, seems to have been decided, and in all likelihood, it
will go down the evolutionary route, with a more traditional styling compared
to the sportier-looking Arteon. Interior and cargo space will however be
improved over the current iteration.
Also, expect the latest technology gear,
including 5G connectivity and a more advanced semi-autonomous driving system,
plus improved built quality that should make the new Passat one of the most
interesting choices in the D-segment, without breathing down the neck of the
premium Audi A4.
