THE Volkswagen Passat , leader of the D segment, arrives at the Geneva Motor Show 2019 updated in appearance and content after five years of the current generation in the market, with the public presentation taking place at the German group's Media Night, which takes place the night before the opening day of the Hall.
The aesthetic update is timid, where we can observe the redesigned bumpers and front grille and redesigned wheels. Highlight for LED headlamps in all versions, which can optionally be equipped with Matrix IQ LED headlamps. Light, already seen on Touareg.
Inside, discretion is also the watchword. We managed to see a new steering wheel and the analogue clock on top of the dashboard disappeared — the remaining differences boil down to the upholstery coverings and other finishes.
Bet on technology
However, the technological bet is big. Volkswagen took advantage of this renovation to offer the Passat the new system of infotainment MIB3 that appears associated with a touch screen that can be of 6.5″, 8.2″ or 9.2″; and also new driving assistance systems such as Travel Assist (semi-autonomous driving system, level 2)
As an option, the Volkswagen Passat can also receive the Digital Cockpit (11.7″) which, according to Volkswagen, now has better graphics, better brightness and resolution.
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With regard to engines, the highlight goes to the introduction of the new 2.0 TDI Evo 150 hp , with the brand announcing less 10 g/km of CO2 when compared to its predecessor. Still in Diesel we find the 1.6 TDI (120 hp) and the 2.0 TDI (190 hp and 240 hp).
Gasoline are available o 1.5 TSI (150 hp) it's the 2.0 TSI, with 190 hp and 272 hp . Last but not least, the plug-in hybrid variant is available GTE that matches the 1.4 TSI of 156 hp with a 116 hp electric motor — combined power of 218 hp — and guarantees a electric autonomy of up to 55 km (WLTP).
Variant R-Line Edition, limited edition
As if to celebrate the arrival of this updated Volkswagen Passat, the German brand also brought to the 2019 Geneva Motor Show a new special and limited edition van (Variant), the model's best-selling bodywork.
Exclusively associated with the most powerful engines — 2.0 TSI with 272 hp and 2.0 TDI with 240 hp — and four-wheel drive 4MOTION, the new Volkswagen Passat Variant R-Line Edition stands out, above all, for its exclusive appearance.
Starting with the body color, Moonstone Gray (grey) and several contrasting elements in black — roof, spoiler, mirror covers, window frames, rear diffuser, part of the front and rear optics and 19″ wheels (Pretoria).
Black is also the dominant color in the interior, where we find R-Line sports seats, partially covered in Nappa and carbon leather side supports. The pedals are in stainless steel, as are the door sills, with the integrated R-Line logo.
Much of the optional equipment is also standard on this special edition: Digital Cockpit, Discover Pro infotainment with 9.2″ screen, Travel Assist, Matrix IQ.Light LED headlamps, adaptive suspension, and, demonstrating the model's sportier vocation , ESC is disconnectable.
Volkswagen Passat Variant R-Line Edition is limited to 2000 units with orders to open in May, just like the other Passat. The launch of the model will take place from the month of September, starting in Germany.
Everything you need to know about the Volkswagen Passat