Volkswagen reveals new Passat Variant

Volkswagen has revealed its new Passat Variant.

Based on an updated MQB Evo platform, the new family estate utilises a MacPherson suspension setup at the front, and a four-link suspension design at the rear. These now utilise two-valve dampers for separate control over the rebound and compression stages.

The Volkswagen Passat Variant now gets full-width taillights at the rear

Paired for the first time in a Passat with the firm's Vehicle Dynamics Manager, which can control the car's electronic differential locks and the shock absorbers if the Dynamic Chassis Control Pro system is specified, these new technologies promise more neutral, stable, agile and precise handling for the Passat.

The petrol-powered drivetrain options for the Passat start from a 1.5-litre engine equipped with mild hybrid technology that produces 148bhp. A 201bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged engine is also available for the Passat, and those that want the firm's 4Motion all-wheel drive technology will be able to opt for the estate with a 261bhp 2.0-litre engine. These engines all come paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Two plug-in hybrid options are additionally available, offering either 201bhp or 268bhp. These both utilise a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, as well as a 19.7kWh battery which can be charged at 11kW via an alternating current supply, or at 50kW via a direct current charger. Volkswagen states that both plug-in hybrid drivetrains will offer an electric-only range of close to 100km.

Customers will be able to opt for either a 12.9-inch or 15-inch infotainment screen, while the gear selector is now located on a stalk on the steering wheel column

At the front, the Passat gets redesigned head lights, which are now connected via a horizontal LED strip in the radiator grille. These head lights can be had had as LED Matrix items.

But the more dramatic change here lies with the enlarged lower intake, which comes with four chrome strips to emphasise the width of the vehicle and ends with air curtains at either side that aid aerodynamic efficiency (the drag coefficient of this Passat stands at just 0.25, a significant decrease from the 0.31 figure of its predecessor).

From the rear, you'll be able to identify this new Passat Variant via its taillights, which now stretch across the width of the car. These new taillights come paired with a large roof spoiler and a discreet diffuser below the rear bumper.

Those that opt for the 'R-Line' trim will get R Design front and rear bumpers, as well as 18-inch light alloy wheels

Step into the cabin of the new Passat and you're likely to first notice Volkswagen's new fourth-generation modular infotainment matrix, which takes form here via a 12.9-inch screen as standard, although a 15-inch item is also available.

This centrally mounted display is angled towards the driver, and comes with new graphics and a menu structure that Volkswagen states is easy to operate and self-explanatory. This screen is paired with a 10.25-inch driver's display that comes with a new surface coating to reduce reflections and glare, as well as a redesigned head-up display.

The car also now places its gear selector on a stalk mounted on the steering column, freeing up space for storage in the centre console. Speaking of space, Volkswagen states that rear passenger legroom has also been increased by 50mm, while further back, storage space has been increased by 40 litres to a total of 690 litres.

The cabin of 'R-Line' trim cars will get sports seats with integrated head restraints

Opt for the Passat Variant in the 'R-Line' or 'Elegance' trim and you'll not only LED matrix head lights alongside dynamic turn indicators as standard, but will also get an extended seat massage system and an electrically operated boot lid amongst other features.

'R-Line' cars will additionally net a sportier R Design front and rear bumper, as well as 18-inch light alloy rims and sports seats with integrated head restraints.