Volkswagen has released the pricing details of its redesigned Passat, undercutting the 2019 model—at a cost.
The 2020 Volkswagen Passat lineup will kick off at $23,915, including $920 for destination for the S trim. It gains a substantially altered exterior, with just a hint of the line-topping Arteon in its new visage.
Opting for the base Passat nets owners standard LED lighting front and back, 17-inch alloys, emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and a 6.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The infotainment screen remains the same size across the lineup.
Another aspect that stays constant across the 2020 Passat line is the engine/transmission combo. Every new Passat will feature VW’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder underhood, sending 174 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.
Number-crunchers will note the new Passat drastically undercuts the 2019 model, to the tune of over $2,000. However, the current “base” trim, the Wolfsburg, includes numerous features not found on the 2020 Passat S. Things like a faux-leather seat trim, heated front seats, or keyless entry are all absent.
Buyers will be able to add all those back in on the next trim up, the SE. Starting at $26,765, it represents a modest $575 increase over the 2019 Wolfsburg. Other features on the SE include dual-zone automatic climate control, auto wipers, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more.
Next on the totem pole is the R-Line ($29,565). This appearance package gives the Passat a more aggressive front bumper, chrome tailpipes, a rear spoiler and diffuser, and unique 19-inch wheels. The interior gains stainless-steel pedals and a pair of paddles behind the wheel.
The $32,015 SEL caps the new-look Passat lineup. It features 18-inch wheels, leather seating, heated seats front and rear, a Fender sound system, and VW’s Parking Steering Assistant.
The Passat will face tough competition in the midsize sedan segment. Not only is there the ever-present challenge of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, but there’s also the Nissan Altima—now available with AWD, a previous VW standout feature. For only a few hundred dollars more there’s also the stylish new Hyundai Sonata.
Volkswagen dealers will begin receiving 2020 Passats before the end of the year.
Leave a Reply