Overview
With the current-generation Passat, Volkswagen sought to design a midsize sedan specifically for the U.S. market. With refined styling and the latest tech features, the Passat is an even more compelling entry into the midsize sedan category than before.
The 2017 Volkswagen Passat is a four-door, five-seat midsize sedan. It’s offered in four trim levels, priced starting from $22,440.* The trim levels run the gamut from practical to luxurious. The standard Passat 1.8T S includes highlights such as a rearview camera, collision mitigation system with automatic braking, and six-speaker sound system. The top-of-the-line Passat SEL Premium boasts such innovations as an automated parallel-parking feature, premium Fender® audio system, lane departure warning system, and more.
The Perfect Ride for…
A refined but practical luxury experience. The Passat is a great choice for families thanks to its spacious interior and roomy backseat, but it’s also a stylish option for the daily commute. With confident maneuverability and an impressive set of features, the 2017 Passat brings Volkswagen’s timeless sedan firmly into the 21st century.
Drive & Handling
The 2017 Passat is available with two powertrains that should be familiar to Volkswagen shoppers. Because why fix what isn’t broken?
The standard engine is a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which produces 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It drives the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. EPA-rated fuel economy for this configuration is 27 mpg combined (23 mpg city, 34 mpg highway).**
For a bit more power, there’s also Volkswagen’s 3.6-liter VR6. An engine type peculiar to VW, it’s a V6 with a narrow enough “V” angle that the two banks of cylinders can share a cylinder head. This makes the engine more compact, which allows VW to fit it to smaller cars than a typical V6, or alternatively to free up passenger space.
The VR6 produces 280 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque on premium gasoline, although 2017 models can also run on regular gasoline. It’s paired with a DSG six-speed dual-clutch automated transmission, which makes for faster shifting than a conventional automatic. VR6 models achieve an EPA-rated 23 mpg combined (20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway).*
Key Features
Volkswagen Car-Net® App-Connect
Standard on the 1.8T SE and above, App-Connect lets you select smartphone apps directly through your in-dash display. The latest system is compatible with both Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™. Explore navigation features, your favorite music, convenient text messaging, and more.
Fender® Premium Audio System
Your drive has never sounded so good. The available 400-watt Fender Premium Audio System provides concert-quality sound so you can rock and roll your way. Bring your music library with you on the go via standard Bluetooth® or the available Car-Net® App-Connect.
Blind Spot Monitor
The available Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) looks out for you and your family, illuminating a warning indicator on the side-view mirror when it detects a vehicle. In conjunction with the standard rearview camera, the Passat makes parking and backing up simpler so you can concentrate on what matters.
Alternative Options
If the Passat is too roomy, the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta may be the perfect fit. This compact sedan offers generous interior space, a host of lively engines, and restrained styling that is both modern and timeless. For a compact crossover with the maneuverability of a sedan, test-drive the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan. Volkswagen reshuffled the Tiguan lineup for 2017, making the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine standard on all models, adding Wolfsburg Edition and Sport trim levels, and eliminating the R-Line and SE trim levels.
Gallery
*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
Image Credit: [OEM]
