Volkswagen Passat Review: Comfort and Performance for Families

Special thanks to Omar Kattouri for the video.

Introduction

Volkswagen has always played it safe with design, and the new, mildly facelifted Passat is no exception. This ‘all-new’ Passat is tailored for the American market, which prefers larger vehicles to accommodate big families. Consequently, the GCC will also receive the roomier variant. In summary, Volkswagen has opted for subtle cosmetic changes and added a couple of interior features to keep the Passat competitive in the mid-size sedan segment.

Exterior

At first glance, the new Passat doesn’t appear new. This has always been the Passat’s story, emphasizing subtle styling and under-the-radar design. It serves as a common man's transporter. However, a closer look reveals new front/rear fascias, hood, trunk, and fenders. Notable upgrades include optional LED headlights and tail lights, paired with large 235/40 tires, resulting in a decent and elegant exterior that appeals to families.

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Interior

The interior is where VW has invested most effort in the new Passat. It offers a more refined look and feel compared to competitors, although the beige interior appears a bit dull, with fake wood trim prevalent throughout. The inclusion of a frameless rearview mirror demonstrates VW’s attention to detail. Seats are comfortable, but the dashboard could be smoother, avoiding the scratchy materials seen in Hyundai and Kia vehicles. The capacitive touchscreen is a standout feature, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, meeting most connectivity needs.

The Passat also boasts essential safety features, including:

• Automatic Post Collision Braking system
• Rear camera
• Cruise control
• Collision detection
• Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Emergency braking

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In terms of space, the Passat boasts the largest boot in its segment, complemented by ample interior room. The American Passat was designed for those who value space, in contrast to the smaller Euro Passat.

Overall, the Passat is well-equipped for safety and comfort.

Drive

The VW Passat is powered by a 2.5-liter engine, producing 170 BHP, enabling acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 9 seconds. This engine pairs with a smooth 6-speed automatic gearbox, though some noise is noticeable at redline RPMs. The steering feels a bit heavy at first, but one adapts quickly. The ride quality is exceptional, absorbing road imperfections with ease.

We conducted a dynamic drive course to assess the agility of this FWD vehicle, and it performed impressively. With minimal body roll, confidence in taking sharp turns is easy, aided by responsive brakes and grippy tires, contributing to an overall satisfying driving experience.

Verdict

The new Passat excels across all aspects. While it may not be visually striking, its excellent interior and driving dynamics position it among the best in its class. With a starting price of AED 87,800, it presents a compelling alternative to Japanese rivals.

Volkswagen Passat Price & GCC Specs

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