2020 VW Passat gets mild refresh, still driver’s family sedan
What is it? A somewhat somnolent refresh of Volkswagen’s family sedan.
Why is it important? The Passat is Volkswagen’s new entrant into the family-sedan segment. Although the sedan market is shrinking, Volkswagen is a company that can seemingly shrug off all negative news, the company posting record sales just three years after its Dieselgate scandal.
More importantly, the Passat always has been the “driver’s car” among import family haulers. It will have to be, because its 2.0-litre turbocharged, direct-injection TSI four is largely a carry-over from the current car, boasting but 174 horsepower but increasing torque to 207 pound-feet.
AWD is not an option, nor is a hybrid — despite Volkswagen’s much-ballyhooed drive to electrification — or even a manual transmission.
That said, initial reports says the new Passat still handles a treat and features an exemplary ride. There’s also an all-new touch-screen infotainment system available, as well as a Fender premium audio system, rain-sensing wipers, adaptive cruise control, ambient lighting and lane assist. When is it coming? Summer
of 2019.
Should I buy one? That’s tough to say. If you value ride and handling above outright performance, then, yes, you should.
On the other hand, the lack of a new powertrain and somewhat humdrum styling, both inside and out, points to a possible lack of commitment on Volkswagen’s part to the sedan segment.