Volkswagen Passat: A smart choice in the segment

There are tons of incredible sedans available in the market and Volkswagen Passat is one out of those that managed to grab everyone's attention. The car does not only look good but it is also hi-tech and power-packed. It comes in two variants: Passat Elegance and Passat R-Line in the local market. The former is an entry-level model that touched the Malaysian shores in January last year with designing tweaks and slight modifications at heart. However, the sportier R-Line entered the market later in August with dynamic styling inside and out. 

So, what makes the Volkswagen Passat a smart choice in the segment? Let’s explore.

Elegant design

The Volkswagen Passat's elegant looks start just right from the twin-slat horizontal front grille with the brand’s logo in the middle. The grille is flanked by the beautiful IQ Light Matrix LED headlights integrated with LED DRLs. Also, parts of the front headlight system are dynamic cornering lights and dynamic indicators. Moving to the sides, here the sedan features a sloping roofline, sharp creases, powered wing mirrors with integrated LED indicators, and striking 18-inch Liverpool multi-spoke alloy wheels. At the back, the striking pair of LED taillights are the main attraction, however, we cannot overlook the dual exhaust tips.

Speaking about the Passat R-Line, it gets specific touches here and there for the next-level styling. These include different front and rear bumpers with chrome detailing, Gloss Black finishing on fog lamp surrounds and diffuser, chrome accents on the radiator grille, R-Line badges, and 19-inch Verona alloy wheels

Luxurious and comfortable cabin

Just like the exterior, the Passat interior also carries an elegant character. The dashboard is very neat and tidy with an 11.7-inch digital cockpit and a 9.2-inch Discover Pro Infotainment system display. Further, there is top-notch fit, finish and material quality teamed up with leather upholstery ambient lighting for the extra premium-ness.

Other significant inclusions are:

• Wireless AppConnect system with wireless Apple CarPlay
• USB-C ports at the front as well as the rear
• ‘KESSY’ keyless locking and starting system
• Three-zone ‘Climatronic’ with Air Care
• 12-way powered driver seat with memory and lumbar support
• 12-way powered front passenger seat
• Rear AC vents
• Rearview camera

With the Passat R-Line, one gets a thicker flat-bottomed steering wheel, aluminium pedals, black roof headliner, and black Nappa leather upholstery with a carbon fibre-like pattern. 

Segment-leading performance

Both Passat variants are powered by the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that churns out a maximum power output of 190 PS from 4,180 to 6,000 rpm and a segment-leading torque of 320 Nm at 1,500 to 4,180 rpm. The power is sent to the front wheels through a seven-speed DSG wet dual-clutch gearbox. And as far as the ride and handling are concerned, the Passat is refined and comfortable on harsh roads, although it is not the last word in dynamic driving, it can't be faulted either.

Extremely safe

In terms of safety, the sedan is fitted with several active and passive safety features. The long list comprises six airbags, electronic stability control, ISOFIX seats, side assist lane change system, ABS-EBD with brake assist, driver alert system, hill hold control, proactive passenger protection system, rear traffic alert, intelligent crash response system, engine drag torque control, tyre pressure monitoring system, and automatic post-collision brake system.

Competitive price

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat price for the base Elegance starts at RM 182,878 while the R-Line retails for RM 204,433. The mentioned prices are on the road, inclusive of SST exemption. In comparison, the Toyota Camry price for the sole 2.5 V trim starts at RM 188, 763, the Honda Accord base 1.5 TC retails for RM 187,390 and the Mazda 6 is priced between RM 170,000 - RM 206,000.

Overall, the Volkswagen Passat's luxurious feel, impressive driveability, and remarkable feature list make it a smart choice in the segment. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.

Also read: 2022 Volkswagen Passat Limited Edition introduced in the US