Amit Saraswat 
The ninth-generation Volkswagen Passat goes on sale in Europe — exclusively in the Variant estate style — with prices starting at EUR 40,000 for the base-spec 150PS mild hybrid eTSI powertrain. The deliveries of the new Passat will begin in the first quarter of 2024.
Aero-centred all-new design
For the ninth-gen model, Volkswagen started with a clean sheet of paper, crafting a design that focused on aerodynamics. In addition, the new Passat boasts a 50mm extra wheelbase over the outgoing model, benefitting the rear passengers in knee room. The new spacious platform has also resulted in more maximum luggage carrying capacity, which stands at 1,920 litres, compared to the previous Passat’s 1,780 litres of boot space.
New-age interior
Since it is brand new, its interior also brings a breath of fresh air while drawing inspiration from the ID line of electric offerings from VW. Its dashboard features a multi-layer layout boasting multiple trim pieces and materials, depending on the trim level you spec. The centre of attraction is the freestanding 15-inch infotainment system, which is tilted towards the driver for ease of operation.
Other highlights of its interior include a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, a new multifunction D-cut steering wheel with intuitive physical buttons, centre storage space with a sliding cover, a column-mounted gear selector and ergo-active seats with massaging function. In addition, Volkswagen has also taken criticism from the current-gen Golf and incorporated backlit control sliders for air-con controls, which sit nearly underneath the touchscreen infotainment.
Improved dynamics
Select variants of the new Passat also come with the option of Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) pro. The adaptive chassis control uses two-valve shock absorbers — a first for a Volkswagen — that promise to deliver a large spread between comfort and dynamics. Another addition to the new Passat is the Vehicle Dynamics Manager, which ensures neutral, agile and precise handling in every driving scenario.
More-efficient powertrains
Like other new Volkswagen offerings, the Passat also offers a range of powertrains, which are more efficient and responsive. The base-spec comes with a 150PS 1.5L TSI with a mild-hybrid system, which is featured on a Passat for the first time. It also offers a 2.0L TDI 150PS diesel engine and a new plug-in-hybrid option. The new plug-in-hybrid powertrain promises an electric-only range of 100km and is capable of DC fast charging.
