Eighth Generation Volkswagen Passat Launched In Malaysia

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has launched its 8th generation VW Passat executive sedan. This comes just four months after its official launch in Germany and less than a year since its unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2019. Those who are familiar with Volkswagen’s naming convention will notice a difference in the nomenclature as the new sedan is called the Passat Elegance.

Locally assembled in Pekan, Pahang, there is now only one variant of Passat to choose i.e. Passat 2.0TSI Elegance, which means you don’t need to get confused comparing specs between variants as it seems that VPCM has included all that is practical.

The new Passat features a complete redesign of the exterior and interior, improved connectivity and updated

lighting signatures. The exterior is given a sharper and more dynamic look with a refreshed front and rear profile to differentiate the new from the old. Another telltale sign is the “Passat” lettering stretched across its rear. Adding to its character is a redesigned lighting signature i.e. a full LED headlight system, front and rear sequential turn signals and a three-wing tail light design. 18-inch “Liverpool” alloy wheels round off the new look.

Meanwhile, the interior of the new Passat is built with an assortment of new materials and decorative design elements to provide the cabin with a premium and stylish ambience. Updates to the cabin include newly-designed door trims, 30-colour ambient lighting, and a new leather multi-function steering wheel with new ergonomic multi-function buttons for convenient connectivity.

Comfort is also a priority, and the new Passat has seats dressed in supple leather, with 12-way powered adjustment for the driver, as well as a 3-zone Climatronic air-conditioning system. New to the list is a powered roll up rear sunshade.

Another convenience is the new and improved 11.7” Digital Cockpit that offers high-resolution display and incorporates functions and features in 2D and 3D graphic display for navigation and media. Drivers have a choice of six customizable screen view with over 30 combination options that give a new level of personalisation.

The infotainment system includes a 9.2” touchscreen that features easy navigation via voice control, gesture control and a customizable three-view split screen. Wireless AppConnect with Apple Car Play is also available in the new Passat for the very first time in Malaysia (you still need to connect via cable for Android Auto). Other features include a wide range of connectivity options through a capacitive touch display, three illuminated USB-C ports and Bluetooth connectivity for mobile and audio streaming.

Additionally, boot space is a very generous 586 litres, making the Passat a very practical family car.

Under the hood, the new Passat Elegance is powered by a new 2.0L TSI turbocharged engine paired with a new and improved 7-speed wet clutch direct shift gearbox (DSG) that produces an impressive output of 190 PS and 320 Nm of torque.

There are two things to note here: the Passat Elegance is the first front-wheel drive VW in Malaysia to come with the new 7-speed wet clutch DSG, and yes, there is no longer an option for a 1.8L engine and output of the new 2.0L is slightly lower than the previous generation’s 220 PS and 350 Nm. This mainly has to do with complying with fuel efficiency and emissions standards of the new Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP); the industry previously used the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) standards.

Based on real-life driving data as defined by the WLTP, the new Passat Elegance has its average fuel consumption officially rated at 6.5L / 100 km.

Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM said that the Passat is an icon in its own right, and a staple choice for executives around the world. “With more than 30 million units sold to-date, it ranks second next to the

iconic Golf as one of Volkswagen’s most successful models.”

“The new Passat features not only a technical update, but a complete redesign of the exterior and interior, improved connectivity and updated lighting signatures. These advanced enhancements are executed, without any compromise on performance. This is what we believe today’s discerning customers are looking for,” he added.

In terms of safety features, the new Passat Elegance is fitted with Side Assist with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, complete with 180° detection range of up to 50 metres; Blind Spot Monitoring System to keep the car secure in its lane with a detection range of up to 70 metres; and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System with integrated sensors on all four tyres to monitor individual pressure readings based on user preference (TPMS is a life-saver from potential tyre blowouts particularly on highways).

Other safety features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Brake Assist (BA), Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS) as well as Hill-hold Control, Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Proactive Passenger Protection System.

The new Passat Elegance is priced at RM187,990 (before insurance and registration). For a limited time only, the new Passat is offered with one year’s worth of insurance free. Further, the first 50 owners of the new Passat Elegance will also receive a complimentary pair of TVR (Total Vintage Revival) sunglasses worth RM1,890.

The Passat Elegance is available in six colours and two finishes: Metallic colours are Aquamarine Blue, Manganese Grey, Reflex Silver and Tamarind Brown, while pearl-effect colours are Deep Black and a new Oryx White. Pearl-effect colours are available without additional surcharge to the overall price of the new Passat.

All new Volkswagens come with 3 years’ free maintenance, 5 years’ unlimited mileage warranty and 5 years’ roadside assistance.

Bookings and test drive arrangements can be made at all authorized Volkswagen dealerships nationwide. For more information, please visit www.volkswagen.com.my

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