Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.The Dwindling Midsize Sedan MarketFor anyone who grew up in the '90s and '00s, the sedan was practically the default family car. In the U.S, midsize sedans once ruled the roost with Camrys, Accords, and Altimas practically flying off showroom floors. Fast forward to today, and a good number of automakers have abandoned that segment in America.Mitsubishi had dropped out of that race, and so have Subaru, General Motors, and Ford. Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are still at it, but sales aren't like they were anymore, with the Altima barely hanging in there. Mazda, on the other hand, is being more selective in the markets it sells its midsize sedan. Hyundai and Kia midsize sedans are doing okay, but again, the volumes aren't the same as before. The sole European offering, the Volkswagen Passat, is no longer offered stateside.AdvertisementAdvertisementThat said, there are still markets where these cars thrive. China is the biggest market for these, and its homegrown brands have no shortage of offerings. South Korea is another one worth mentioning, as well as the Middle East. The latter brings us back neatly to the Volkswagen Passat.VolkswagenThe Passat NowMany countries no longer get the Passat, which is a bit of a shame given that it was such a good car - the international versions, at least. The ninth-generation Passat (B9) was introduced in 2023 and sold exclusively as a wagon in Europe. That's unsurprising given that an overwhelming majority of the previous generations left dealer lots in wagon guise in that market.But go over to China, and the B9 Passat loses its long roof and sprouts a trunk. Its either called the Passat Pro or the Magotan, the latter sporting a different look from the European Passat and Passat Pro. Interestingly, you can get the Magotan as the Passat over in the Middle East. That means the Middle East is the only market that gets that specific version of the midsize sedan.The Passat for that region was introduced late last year for the 2026 model year. While it's essentially a Magotan, there are key differences in the infotainment system for markets outside China. Despite its appearance and some similarities to the last NMS Passat sold in America, this one rides on a completely new platform shared with the Euro Passat.VolkswagenThe Middle Eastern PassatOver there, the Passat is marketed as a more upmarket car. That explains the spacious rear accommodations and rear headrest pillows on higher-trim models. Speaking of which, there are three available: Trendline, Comfortline, and Highline. According to Drive Arabia, prices range from 118,500 to 145,000 Saudi Arabian Riyal. That's roughly $31,600 to $38,700, not bad given current prices for the Accord and Camry.AdvertisementAdvertisementSo, what comes standard? There's remote engine start, a 12.9-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital cockpit, power-adjustable seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, and IQ.Drive Select modes. Comfortline models add a panoramic sunroof, illuminated front and rear logos, ambient lighting, wireless charging, power-reclining rear seats, advanced driver assists, and more. As for the Highline, it rides on larger 19-inch alloys and comes with goodies such as ventilated front and rear seats, a massage function, tri-zone climate control, and those headrest pillows at the back.Both Trendline and Comfortline models are powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 158 hp. Exclusive to the Highline is a 2.0-liter turbo from the GTI, but detuned to 217 hp. There is no six-cylinder or hybrid version of the Passat for the Middle East.VolkswagenDoes America Need It?Given America's insatiable appetite for crossovers, SUVs, and trucks, the chances of the Passat, whether in sedan or wagon body styles, are slim to none. Also, tariffs effectively seal the car's fate, as the wagon is built in Slovakia, whereas all sedans are built in China. If you want a VW sedan in America, your only choice is the Jetta. If you want a wagon, you're out of luck.Yes, there will be people who would want the all-new B9 Passat in the country. However, given the state of the midsize market right now, it's safe to say that VW North America won't be able to sell enough to make a profit. If it's any consolation, though, the Passat is still selling well enough in the markets where it's offered, so the name will live on for a couple more years.VolkswagenVolkswagenView the 9 images of this gallery on the original articleAdvertisementAdvertisementThis story was originally published by Autoblog on May 23, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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