Volkswagen has given the ninth-generation Passat a definitive go-ahead after more than a year of internal debate over the future of the German saloon and estate.
The decision comes after Volkswagen Group chairman Herbert Diess had cast doubt on whether the Passat would be replaced. He cited the increasing popularity of the similarly sized Arteon and plans to produce the well-received electric ID Vizzion concept in saloon and estate bodystyles from 2023 onwards as possible reasons not to continue beyond today’s car, which was introduced in 2015.
Set for UK launch in 2023, the new Passat will share its platform, drivetrains and electrical architecture with the Skoda Superb – alongside which right-hand-drive versions will be produced in a new greenfield factory to be established by Skoda as part of a major expansion of its production capacity.
The move will bring an end to the production of the Passat at Volkswagen’s Emden factory in Germany after more than 36 years, according to Volkswagen sources, who say the plant will be soon begin a comprehensive reconstruction for the electric-powered ID 4 SUV, which is scheduled to be produced there from 2022.
The decision to push ahead with the Passat will also end Volkswagen’s strategy of offering two different versions of the mid-sized model.
Currently, European versions are based on the MQB platform, while the Passat sold in the US and through one sales channel in China continues to be based on the old PQ46 platform, which dates back to the sixth-generation model introduced in 2005.
From 2023, however, all Passats will be underpinned by an updated version of the MQB platform used by today’s model and supporting both front- and four-wheel drive. It’s claimed to provide scope for not only an increased number of mild and plug-in petrol and diesel hybrids but also the packaging of a fully electric drivetrain.
The styling of the new model, known internally as the B9, has already been completed, say Volkswagen insiders. They suggest it will take on an even more versatile role, with accommodation and load-carrying ability high priorities.
One insider said: “With the Arteon, we already have a style leader in the segment. This leaves the door open for the Passat to become even more space-orientated than today’s model.”
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tuga
Passat
Let the D-segment EV be the " style leader ".
Citytiger
So basically
Build a new Passat in a Skoda factory alongside the Superb, using all the same components, but lower its spec compared to the Superb and raise its price, because its a badge thing.. Makes perfect sense.
Peter Cavellini
New era?
No, don't really think so, over the last few years, certainly in part of the country, I haven't seen many privately owned ones, more with a Taxi sign on the roof if anything, and the rep ones look basic, not much bling, if only it was more like the concept, it does look different, interesting even.
si73
Why are new VWs nearly always
Having the arteon and Passat seems odd, before when the arteon was a Passat cc, the range made more sense, now there's too much overlap, the arteon should remain as a coupe ish 4 door only and leave the sensible saloon and estate to the Passat.
scotty5
Go figure VW
If the Passat estate had been anything like it was 3years ago I'd have bought one this time around, instead VW decided to make it look cheaper, moved what was standard equipment to the options list and seriously increased the price.
Needless to say I bought another car. And for what was still a good selling model just 3yr ago, I don't think I've seen a 20reg Passat out on the road. Go figure VW.
The Apprentice
Isn't this the inherent
Isn't this the inherent problem with selling much the same but under different class branding. Consumers expect continual product improvement so as Skoda improves, it encroaches on VW so VW are expected to upmarket and that encroaches on Audi who are then pushed into risking unaffordable territory and you damage your bigger profit margin sales.I would reboot it all. Scrap Seat, drive Skoda back into budget cars, VW mid range, Audi for aspirational. Trying to fit 4 brands doesn't work.
Just Saying
Shame there isn't a posting op for top ten supercars
Rich boy spanners
Not sure of the reason a
Not sure of the reason a Passat would be bought instead of the Superb. Nice to be reminded that the Passat still exists though, haven't seen a new one in years.
Andrew1
Will it cheat on emissions?
Brian_GTi
Does anyone care anymore?
Rightly or wrongly, will anyone notice if the Passat / Mondeo / Insignia and all mainstream big saloons and hatchbacks quietly disappear? The Scorpio and Omega died around 20 years ago, and the current mainstream D segment cars are rapidly heading the same way.
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