Next-Gen VW Passat Rendering & Details

Yes, VW has been a success as of late. The company is working to keep that momentum going with a redesign of it's mid-size Passat sedan. I've been keen to see how the design works out given the change in direction since the previous model.

Updated: 10 Oct 2024

Looking at the renderings, the changes are evolutionary. Pretty much to be expected; no huge changes with the next-generation Passat. Does VW ever do revolutionary anymore? Not really.

The Passat does display the more classic VW look that started beginning with the Scirocco and following with Golf and the new Polo. It looks good, something to set VW apart from the other sedans in the segment.

Of course it's just a rendering, but I think they're spot on with the actual car.

According to Motor Authority, VW would like it to do battle with Mercedes's C-Class and BMW's 3-Series. Isn't that what the Audi A4 is for? VW should be careful not to infringe on Audi's territory. Not to mention the fact that Passat is a larger vehicle then the two competitors mentioned. If VW wants to be a serious volume player in the U.S it will need to expand the car's reach, not limit it.

The rear shows even less of a change, remaining very similar to the current model. I do think the actual car will show more changes then this, but time will tell.

In order to hit it's goal of being a higher-end competitor, Motor Authority says Passat will offer some new technologies. They include airless tires, a wiperless window cleaning system and a "advanced user interface". There were rumors of VW working with Apple on an interface; who knows if that is true or if it will ever come to fruition. Hopefully so.

Powertrain updates include a new 300bhp 3.0L VR6 with direct injection. No details on the 4-cylinder yet. The new Passat is rumored to debut in late 2011 as a 2012 model. Hopefully we'll hear more details about its soon. Some of these are specific technologies rumored to be in place. Wonder how close the real thing will be to this report?