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New 2016 Volkswagen Passat Updates Infotainment and Styling
In one of the most awkward new-model introductions in recent memory, Volkswagen took the wraps off its restyled Passat, while the cloud of the company’s diesel emissions scandal lingers in the air.
VW, apparently, wasn’t impressed with the last generation’s styling, so it took a scalpel to the Passat’s body and gave it a new hood, front fenders, grille, front and rear bumpers, and trunk lid. The company says that the only sheet metal it didn’t change was the roof, doors, and the body side stamping.
Inside, the 2016 Volkswagen Passat gets an upgraded interior—a good thing since we thought the current model’s fit and finish wasn’t that impressive. Details include a new instrument panel, VW’s latest MIB II infotainment system, and a new steering wheel and column stalk design. New options include heated rear seats, LED headlights and taillights, and a foot-operated trunk opener.
The infotainment system includes a standard touch screen on all models. Some versions get a capacitive-touch sensor enabling swiping and pinch-zooming, as well as a proximity sensor that detects when your hand is nearby and automatically switches its display to allow easier selection of specific features. USB and Bluetooth connectivity are standard on all 2016 Volkswagen Passat models. The system is also compatible for Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink.
Available safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control; forward-collision warning with autonomous emergency braking; blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert; and lane-departure warning. All 2016 versions come with a standard rearview camera.
Powertrain choices remain the same as the current model: 170-hp, 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder; 150-hp, 2.0-liter turbodiesel; and 280-hp, 3.6-liter V6. Both five- and six-speed manual and automatic transmissions will be offered.
And, for the first time, you can get the Passat in VW’s zoot-suit R-Line version, which includes sportier exterior styling and 19-inch wheels mounted on 235/40 ZR-rated tires.
Over the years we found that the Passat lost some of that crisp European driving feel of previous models. But it’s still a solid, upright sedan that delivers a comfortable ride, generous interior room, and competitive fuel economy from its four-cylinder engines.
The Chattanooga, Tennessee-built 2016 Volkswagen Passat goes on sale later this year, starting at $22,440.
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