Volkswagen Passat gets upgrades and design tweaks for 2018

By David Finkelstein

With a number of upgrades and changes for the 2018 model year, Volkswagen is making its Passat mid-sized sedan available in six trim levels including the base S version, R-Line, SE, SE with Technology, GT, and SEL Premium. Replacing the 1.8-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, Passat's new base powertrain features the most advanced 2.0-liter four-cylinder TSI engine it has ever offered.

It serves up added performance with an increase in horsepower yet, with improved fuel economy numbers, when compared to the 2017 model.

Additionally, for the 2018 rendition, the entry level S models receive a new optional Driver's Assistance Package. It includes electronic forward collision warning radar, autonomous emergency braking plus blind spot monitoring as well as a rear cross traffic alert system. Also worth noting all models will now include an enhanced warranty — a six-year or 72,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited coverage policy. Furthermore, this factory assurance can now be transferred to subsequent owners.



Passat is usually cross shopped with models such as the Kia Optima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, Mazda6, Hyundai Sonata, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry.

With its conservative yet distinctive European styled outer body design, Passat has narrowed-down/slim headlights, a substantial fully chromed four-bar front grille assembly, a somewhat muscular hood design which is all coupled with a well planted wide profile stance. The up-charge chrome window frame surrounds plus the addition of LED headlights and taillights also help make this four door family type sedan somewhat unique.

The vehicle's rear is pulled together with well defined trunk lid stamping's, bumper design, flush rear license plate area and an available chrome strip on the trunk itself.

Manufactured in seven available colors, it's also now offered a new color for 2018 referred to as Tourmaline Blue. Engineered specifically for the U.S. market, Passat delivers plentiful space for five adults with the car's generous body proportions. The large trunk can accommodate close to 16 cubic feet of cargo.

Inside the “more than ample” roomy passenger cabin, you'll quickly notice the well formed dashboard area, adequately sized center console housing and the integrated two-tone decor inner door panels suggesting near luxury accommodations.

The instrument gauge cluster features two large dial faces and a display screen positioned between them, while a frame-less rearview mirror (available on the SE with Technology trim and above) provides an extra touch of elegance. Chrome trim pieces, including the bezels around the air vents, upper door trim, cupholders, and shift lever help add to the premium ”takeaway” of the interior.

Included as standard equipment across the Passat product mix is their MIB II infotainment system. It offers one of the most comprehensive suites of connected vehicle services and features available in the automotive industry.

With the vehicle's quiet passenger cabin, Passat chassis engineers developed a dynamic, precise steering suspension set-up that drivers will welcome. The new GT model receives sport-tuned shocks and heavy-duty larger stabilizer bars in the front and rear.

Powering this Chattanooga-manufactured automobile is one of two engines. The standard 2.0-liter turbo, four cylinder which generates a peak 174-horsepower has EPA-estimated fuel economy figures of 25 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. The 3.6-liter V-6 engine is standard on SEL Premium models and the new GT. It produces quick acceleration with it's 280 horsepower rating. EPA estimated mileage is 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. A six speed automatic transmission channels the power to the drive wheels.

Under the heading of safety, Passat provides a combination of both passive and active safety systems. The car has been engineered to meet or exceed all current crash regulations. It features six airbags as standard, along with a number of electronic and mechanical safety systems that shut off the fuel pump, unlock the doors and switches on the hazard lights if the car is involved in certain types of collisions.

Pricing starts at $22,995. The destination charge for all Passat models is an additional $850.