The New Passat - 15 Million Bestseller Is More Impressive, Safe And Fuel Efficient

WOLFSBURG, GERMANY – April 20, 2011: With over 15 million cars sold, the Passat by Volkswagen is one of the most successful automobiles in the world. Now there is a new Passat. It is the seventh generation since 1973. The styling of the bestseller was completely re-interpreted, and its front is more impressive than ever. Furthermore, the Passat has always mirrored the course of technological progress. And this applies unreservedly to the seventh Passat, which will launch simultaneously as a sedan and wagon. The overall range of technological innovations now implemented in the Passat 118TSI and Passat Highline variants has reached a scale previously found only in luxury class cars.

More innovation
An innovative feature in this class is the fatigue detection system that is offered on the Passat. The system is a standard feature across the range. The Passat also has an optional City Emergency Braking function (City EB). The assistance system is part of the further refined optional ACC adaptive cruise control plus Front Assist. The City EB function, active below a speed of 30 km/h, also reacts to stationary vehicles; if necessary, it automatically initiates a braking manoeuvre, thereby contributing to avoidance of an impending front end collision or at least minimising the resulting damage.

More comfort
The Passat “sees” parking spaces parallel and perpendicular to the road, and upon request it can automatically steer the car into the space with centimetre precision (Park Assist 2).

More quality
The technologies and the further improved workmanship and material quality is differentiating the Passat from its competitors more than ever. This quality is perceptible in the interior with its high-end materials, new seats and door trims and ambience lighting. An especially elegant effect is produced by the modified centre console and redesigned accents in the instruments that are visually appealing and pleasing to the touch.

More quiet
The new Passat is extremely quiet. The reason: Insulating materials specifically integrated in the dashboard area and doors filter out exterior and engine noises. In addition, a new acoustic film is embedded in the front windscreen; this film blocks out additional noise.

More safety
Progress has been made in the area of safety as well. The previous model already attained 5 stars in ANCAP crash testing. Further advances include features such as seatbelt fastening detection for the rear seats and head restraints that now also adjust horizontally on the front seats. The new head restraints for driver and front passenger reduce the risk of whiplash injury in a traffic accident.

More sustainable
Last but not least, the new Passat sets standards when it comes to sustainability. All three engines are more fuel efficient - by up to 12 percent! Technologies such as the Start/Stop system also ensure the best fuel economy for the TDI diesel engine. It is worth noting that each model is a safe, comfortable and powerful touring vehicle. Only, they are also very low emitting, fuel efficient and blessed with extremely long driving ranges.