The Volkswagen Passat, a mainstay of European roadways for nearly half a century, is facing an uncertain future as the automotive industry pivots toward electric vehicles. A recent long-term test by the Czech publication Aktuální.cz highlighted the enduring appeal of the combustion engine Passat, even as Volkswagen signals its eventual demise.
The test, conducted over three months and 8,712 kilometers (approximately 5,414 miles) with a 2.0 TDI 4Motion model, revealed a surprising level of enjoyment among the editorial team. “We actually enjoyed the Passat very much and spent a long time thinking about which car in our long-term test we liked more. But we didn’t come up with any,” reported Jakub Stehlík of Aktuální.cz. This sentiment challenges the common perception of the Passat as a merely functional, “fast food” vehicle – reliable but unremarkable.
Volkswagen’s decision to discontinue the Passat in its current form stems from a broader shift in strategy. The ninth generation Passat, launched with a streamlined model range – eliminating the sedan and aligning more closely with the Škoda Superb – is now manufactured in Bratislava, Slovakia, rather than its traditional German production site in Emden. This move, coupled with Volkswagen’s stated commitment to phasing out internal combustion engines, has led to speculation about the Passat’s long-term viability.
“What will they replace it with?” questioned Honza Matoušek, a colleague at Aktuální.cz, expressing skepticism that SUVs or the electric ID.7 will appeal to all drivers. The publication noted the Passat’s unique attributes, such as its low-slung profile, which contributes to stability at high speeds and surprisingly low aerodynamic noise. The diesel engine also delivers impressive fuel economy, with the test vehicle achieving approximately 6 liters per 100 kilometers (39.2 mpg) under normal conditions, increasing slightly to 6.5 liters (36.2 mpg) during harsh winter weather.
The Passat’s practicality also received praise. Eva Srpová, another member of the Aktuální.cz team, highlighted features often appreciated by female drivers, including illuminated vanity mirrors and the continued inclusion of a spare tire – a feature increasingly absent in modern vehicles. The vehicle’s comfortable driving position and intuitive controls, including dedicated buttons for windows and a responsive infotainment system with Android Auto compatibility, were also commended.
But, the test wasn’t without criticism. The process for deactivating driver assistance systems was described as cumbersome, requiring multiple confirmations through the touchscreen. The availability of desirable features, such as a heated windshield, was also tied to expensive equipment packages, forcing buyers to purchase unwanted extras to obtain specific amenities. A Winter package, for example, offered heated seats and a steering wheel for 12,600 Czech koruna, while a premium version including a heated windshield and rear seats cost 41,000 koruna.
The Passat’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system proved particularly effective during a period of severe winter weather. The system seamlessly transitions between front-wheel and all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction on icy and snowy roads. The test team reported confidently navigating challenging conditions, including passing stranded trucks and maneuvering through snowdrifts.
A unique Passat Variant B8 R-Line 2.0 TSI 4×4 DSG, previously used by Porsche Česká republika as a press vehicle, recently appeared for sale in Prague, having undergone modifications to increase its power output to 400 horsepower. The vehicle, which had been meticulously maintained with frequent oil and fluid changes and was kept garaged during winter months, was listed for 1.25 million Czech koruna (approximately $54,000 USD).
Despite Volkswagen’s plans to transition to electric vehicles, the enduring popularity and practicality of the Passat suggest a continued demand for traditional combustion engine vehicles. The future of the Passat remains unclear, but its legacy as a reliable and comfortable family car is firmly established.