Next-generation Volkswagen Passat will see the saloon scrapped in favour of a hatchback bodystyle, and we’ve driven a prototype
- Larger than current Passat
- New hatchback model will replace existing saloon
- Plug-in hybrid powertrains available alongside diesel engines
The Volkswagen Passat is set to undergo a major rework, with the German brand confirming the new model will arrive later in 2023 – just in time to celebrate the Passat’s 50th anniversary. We’ve now driven a prototype, giving us a far better understanding of its changes and what it’s like to drive, so read on below for our early impressions.
One of the first things you’ll notice is its larger size, with a longer wheelbase providing more interior space. A more practical hatchback model will replace the long-running Passat saloon, making it more family-friendly. A Passat Estate will still be offered and our exclusive images preview what it could look like.
VW will build the new Passat at its factory in Bratislava, which also produces the Touareg SUV. The new car is being developed alongside the next-generation Skoda Superb, with both cars set to eventually share the same production line.
2023 Volkswagen Passat: styling and dimensions
While the new car has not yet been seen without its camouflage, it’s expected the next Passat will get an evolutionary styling makeover with a smoother front end and slimmer grille and headlights. A smaller grille won’t just look different, it should also reduce drag for greater efficiency. At the rear, it’s likely to get VW’s latest branding with the nameplate emblazoned across the hatch and redesigned tail lights that run from the C-pillars to the tailgate.
The restyle and increase in size will further separate the Passat from the sleeker but similarly sized Arteon, with a focus on improving the car’s practicality and versatility. It’ll get a 50mm longer wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear wheels), putting it closer to the Skoda Superb. The additional length means it will offer more room for rear passengers as well as a 40-litre larger boot for the Estate, making it one of the most practical models in the VW lineup. This should give it a boot size of roughly 690 litres, expanding to a huge 1,920 litres with the seats folded flat.
Inside, the dashboard will be dominated by a massive 15-inch central touchscreen which looks several generations newer than the setup in the outgoing Passat. Most of the car’s functions will be controlled from here, but in an admission of poor customer feedback around the lack of buttons in other recent models, there are physical controls on the steering wheel. Static climate control graphics along the bottom of the screen should also make them easier to adjust quickly, without having to navigate any sub-menus.
Engines and platform
With VW’s ID range catering for pure-electric buyers, the Passat will be aimed at those still wanting a conventionally powered car.
The new car will sit on an evolution of the VW Group’s MQB-evo platform shared with the next Volkswagen Tiguan, Skoda Superb and Skoda Kodiaq, meaning it will get a familiar engine lineup along with new hybrid powertrains.
Diesel power is still likely to be offered, despite falling sales in recent years. The newest version of the brand’s 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine will be available, with power outputs ranging from 148bhp to 197bhp and the option of 4MOTION four-wheel drive in flagship models.
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Regular 1.5-litre petrol engines are likely to be offered as well, with the focus of the new model being plug-in hybrid power. A 200bhp entry-level eHybrid powertrain will sit beneath a 242bhp GTE version, with both getting a larger battery than the 13kWh unit used in the current Passat PHEV. This would give it a vastly improved pure-electric range figure that could be as high as 60 miles. Charging times would also be improved, with a switch from 3.6kW to a faster 11kW AC charging system.
Volkswagen Passat prototype review – Jordan Katsianis
The camouflaged prototype we tested was fitted with Volkswagen’s mild-hybrid 1.5-litre petrol engine with around 148bhp, and a dual-clutch DSG gearbox sending power to the front wheels. On the road, our first impressions were how smooth and calm the car already feels from behind the wheel.
Even on the rougher road surfaces around Volkswagen’s Ehra Lessien testing facilities, the prototype’s adaptive suspension – that’s likely to be optional when the Passat is available to order – does a good job of filtering out bumps before they ruffle too many feathers inside the cabin.
While the initial response from the petrol prototype’s accelerator could be slightly hesitant at times, it felt better than the existing versions of this powertrain that we’ve tried, and it’s noticeably refined too.
Drive a bit more keenly in ‘Sport’ mode and the Passat feels composed and reassuringly stable. Despite its extra length, it also feels a bit more agile, thanks to its improved suspension, and steering that now adds lock a bit more quickly as you turn the wheel.
There might be an estate version of the electric Volkswagen ID.7 on its way, but for those who aren’t ready to make the switch just yet – and Passat drivers do tend to rack up high mileages that could make on-route charging undesirable – the latest Passat shouldn’t feel like too much of a compromise.
Keyword: New 2023 Volkswagen Passat: details, specs and prototype review