Car Review (launch report): VW Passat 2015
The new VW Passat has been completely redesigned – making a push towards competing with the other high-end premium sedans and does a good job of it too! Not to mention it won the European Car of the Year Award 2015!
We got an opportunity to drive the new VW Passat at the launch of the new model, last week. Currently only petrol engines are available in South Africa, consisting of:
- 1.4 TSI – 110kW
- 1.8 TSI – 132kW
- 2.0 TSI – 162kW
The 1.4 TSI comes with a 6-speed transmission as standard – with the optional choice of the 7-speed DSG transmission. The 1.8 TSI comes with the 7-speed DSG transmission as standard. The 2.0 TSI is mated to a 6-speed DSG transmission. The 2.0 TDI 130kW variant is expected to be available in South Africa from the second half of 2016.
As with most VW models, the new VW Passat is available in two trim levels – the Comfortline and the Highline. All derivatives offer a high level of standard features including:
- Multi-Collision Braking System
- Fatigue Detection (Driver Alert)
- Park Distance Control (front and rear)
- LED taillights
- Alcantara/Vienna leather seats (Highline and R-Line)
- Multifunction leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles for DSG derivatives
- Three-zone Climatronic air-conditioner (optional in Comfortline)
Driving Review
I was very impressed with the new VW Passat, even the standard 1.4 TSI model handles extremely well! With the usual three choices of driving profiles, (eco, comfort and sport) you can set the car to your own preference. While in eco mode the 1.4 TSI variant does feel relatively sluggish, however in either of the other modes the throttle is very responsive. The 2.0 TSI variant, with an output of 162kW – can really move (regardless of the mode)!
All models see the instrument cluster replaced with a fully configurable 12.3″ TFT display. The display boasts a full HD resolution, making it extremely clear and adds to the overall feeling of comfort and convenience. You can configure the screen to display your navigation route, driving information, fuel economy details and a few other useful options. However I found the navigation to be the most useful. Being able to see the route right in front of, as opposed to the middle console or having to look over to another device – is incredibly useful and a lot safer!
The car also features multiple device Bluetooth connectivity, meaning you can easily switch between two phones or devices for playing music or taking calls. The car is also compatible with the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto apps, however neither of these are available in South Africa quite yet.
As for the rest of the interior, it depends largely on the trim level you’ve opted for. While the base model is certainly very comfortable, it lacks some of the added feeling of luxury that other premium sedans might offer – although it is much cheaper! However when going for the higher spec’d variations, the car becomes extremely luxurious. With features such as air-conditioned seats to the more premium Dynaudio systems, with these features the car certainly competes with any of the most premium sedans in its class.
For me this is where the new VW Passat really hits its stride. While the base model may not compete with the base model equivalent BMW, Audi or Mercedes – the VW Passat will be quite a bit cheaper. However for the same price as one of these other base models or low-spec’d variants, you could have a highly spec’d VW Passat. This is where it really shines – the overall feeling of comfort and driving experience of the VW Passat when making this comparison, will certainly make you consider choosing it over one of the other premium sedans.
Retail Prices (VAT and emissions tax included)
- 1.4 TSI Comfortline 110kW Manual – R378 800
- 1.4 TSI Comfortline 110kW DSG – R398 800
- 1.8 TSI Highline 132kW DSG – R444 200
- 2.0 TSI R-Line 162kW DSG – R476 800
Warranty and Service
The new Passat comes standard with a 3 year/ 120 000km manufacturer warranty and 5 year/100 000 km Automotion Maintenance Plan. All models have a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty and 15 000 km service intervals.