2020 Volkswagen Passat
2020 Volkswagen Passat

Detroit Auto Show LogoVolkswagen unveiled a thoroughly revamped version of its mainstream front-wheel-drive midsize sedan at the 2019 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The 2020 Volkswagen Passat retains the basic powertrain and underpinnings of the previous Passat, but wears all-new body styling and a redesigned interior.

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2020 Volkswagen Passat
2020 Volkswagen Passat

The new look is highlighted by a coupe-like roofline, pronounced body sculpting, and a bold grille design. The overall motif is clearly related to Volkswagen’s Jetta compact sedan, which was introduced at last year’s Detroit Auto Show. New interior features include a more contemporary instrument panel and a glass-covered infotainment touchscreen, as well as new colors and premium materials. Volkswagen’s V-Tex leatherette and Nappa leather upholstery are available in addition to the standard cloth upholstery.

The 174-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and 6-speed automatic transmission are carried over with minor updates. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard, and 18s and 19s are available. Other available features include heated front and rear seats, power-folding heated side mirrors, adaptive headlights, and a Fender-brand premium audio system.

Standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a parking-assist system are available.

The 2020 Volkswagen Passat is slated to go on sale this summer in four regular trim levels, as well as a launch-only Limited model. Pricing and other details will be available closer to the launch date.

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CG Says:

The 2020 Volkswagen Passat isn’t a full redesign, but given the shift in mainstream buyer tastes to crossover SUVs, that may be a smart strategy. The new model retains the spacious interior—in particular, the generously sized back seat—that is a key Passat asset. And, there’s just enough new here to make the Passat feel fresh and stylistically in sync with the rest of Volkswagen’s current lineup.

2020 Volkswagen Passat
2020 Volkswagen Passat

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