Volkswagen is counted among top-tier automobile brands across the world. The vision of Volkswagen was to create practical vehicles for the common people. One such model series that caters to this criteria is the Volkswagen Passat. Passat was first unveiled in the 1970s and was well-received by customers. Since then, the model has been running successfully in the market.
Let’s take a closer look at the Volkswagen Passat history and the journey that this model series has covered in half a century.
Volkswagen Passat Generations
Passat tops the list of most popular used sedans by Volkswagen in UAE. Price to feature equilibrium and fuel-efficiency are the core reasons for its popularity in the region.
Here are the complete details regarding all Volkswagen Passat models and their specs.
First Generation Volkswagen Passat (1973 to 1981)
The first generation Passat was launched in 1973 in a twin-door hatchback body type. The front end features a wide radiator grille with rectangular headlights and steel bumpers. The VW logo was present in between the headlights.
Inside the cabin, a minimalistic dashboard was installed, and the stereo system was positioned at the centre console. The instrument cluster features three dials, including an analogue speedometer and a clock.
A wide engine range was offered in this generation, including 1.5-litre inline diesel and a 1.6-litre inline petrol engine.
Second Generation Volkswagen Passat (1981 to 1988)
With the launch of the second generation, Passat penetrated into the mid-size sedan category and remains popular in this category to date. The three-box sedan body type makes it completely different from Volkswagen Passat’s old models. At the front, a wide radiator grille and rectangular headlights were present. Whereas, at the back, wide brake lights were placed. The old steel bumper was replaced with a plastic one.
The interior was also uplifted and was embedded with technologically advanced features. The stereo system was moved from the console to the dashboard and different controls were also added to the dashboard. The instrument cluster features two large dials and separate smaller gauges for fuel and coolant temperature.
This time VW offers a 1.3-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel engine. The engine was accompanied by a 4-speed manual transmission system. Moreover, the car was equipped with an FWD drivetrain system which was the latest technology of VW at that time.
Third Generation Volkswagen Passat (1988 to 1993)
VW unveiled the third generation Passat at the Geneva Motor Show in sedan and station wagon body types. The front fascia in this generation was completely redesigned and radiator grilles were removed. Instead of a radiator grille, a flat panel was present between the headlights. The plastic bumpers featured large air intakes that were used as a replacement for the radiator grille. The rear end of the car was uplifted and comes with an optional spoiler.
The dashboard was equipped with a large infotainment system and also had a climate control system. To ensure maximum comfort, a large bench was installed for rear passengers and power windows were also available.
In this generation, 1.6, 1.8, 2.0 and 2.8-litre petrol engines were offered. Along with this engine range, an optional 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmission system were present.
Third Generation Volkswagen Passat Facelift (1993 to 1996)
The third-generation Passat was facelifted in 1993 by Volkswagen. The facelifted version was released under the nameplate of Passat B4.
After the facelift, the front fascia was completely redesigned with narrow radiator grilles and rectangular headlights. Moreover, same-coloured bumpers were introduced with a rubber strip that ran along the car body. Whereas, for the rear end, large rectangular brake lights were installed.
Inside the cabin, a revised dashboard and centre console were present that provided easy access to control and commands. Optional high-bolstered or bucket-front seats were offered.
The car was powered by a 2.8-litre V6 engine paired with an optional 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission system.
Fourth Generation Volkswagen Passat (1996 to 2000)
The fourth generation was completely redesigned and upgraded, unlike old Volkswagen Passat cars. The exterior reflects features of the bio-design era with rounded edges, angular headlights and body contours. The radiator grille contains thin strips, which increase its overall appearance. For the rear end, square brake lights were installed.
For the interior, VW offered a curved dashboard with a large centre console. The cabin was divided into two halves because of the tunnel design that runs between the front and rear sets.
A 1.6-litre petrol engine was present under the hood with an optional FWD or AWD drivetrain system.
Fourth Generation Volkswagen Passat Facelift (2000 to 2005)
The Volkswagen Passat evolution continues with the facelifted version of the fourth generation. In this version, the front fascia was completely revised with new headlights and turn signals. To enhance the appearance, chromed slates on the radiator grille were introduced.
For the interior, an advanced climate control system, infotainment system and satellite navigation system were installed.
This time, 1.9-litre TDI and 2.8-litre W-8 petrol engines were present to power the car. The engine can be paired with an optional manual or automatic (Tiptronic) transmission system.
Fifth Generation Volkswagen Passat (2005 to 2009)
VW caters to the shifting standards of the automotive industry in the fifth-generation Passat. In this generation, a large radiator grille that extended to the lower bumper was introduced. The boxy brake lights were replaced with narrow ones.
The roomy cabin was equipped with comfort features, including adjustable steering wheels. To increase cabin space, the traditional hand brakes were replaced with electric ones.
The engine range includes 1.4, 1.6 and 2.0-litre petrol engines. A 6-speed manual transmission system supported the engine.
Sixth Generation Volkswagen Passat (2009 to 2011)
Volkswagen branded the sixth generation Passat as CC (Comfortable Coupe). The car was provided with a sporty look supported by the low-profile roof, pointed hood and raked A-pillars. Additionally, the radiator grille and headlights were redesigned to accompany the overall sporty appearance.
The sporty appearance was also evident inside the cabin. A straight dashboard with horizontal lines was installed that compliments the interior.
Different variants of petrol and diesel engines were present including 1.8, 2.0 and 3.6-litre engines. An optional 6-speed manual and automatic transmission system were offered with this engine range.
Sixth Generation Volkswagen Passat Facelift (2011 to 2014)
In the facelift version of the sixth generation, the front fascia was redesigned. A narrow radiator grille with chromed slates and pulled-back rectangular headlights was installed. Moreover, fog lights and air intake were moved on the lower bumper. Contours were present on the side that runs from the front end to the rear end of the car. The car was offered in three trim levels namely Highline, Comfort and Trendline.
The cabin was decorated with charmed accents and leather upholstery. For comfort, front bucket seats were present.
A 1.4 and 1.8-litre petrol engine and 1.6 and 2.0-litre diesel engines were offered in the facelifted version of the sixth generation.
Seventh Generation Volkswagen Passat (2014 to 2019)
VW redesigned the Passat to provide a sharp exterior and upgraded interior. A narrow radiator grille was present with three horizontal slats. The lowermost bar is submerged with the eye-shaped LED headlights present at the corner.
The spacious cabin was equipped with driver-oriented features and design. The dashboard was uplifted and slightly inclined towards the windscreen.
VW offered a 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engine inside the hood. Along with this, an AWD drivetrain system and a 6-speed manual transmission system were present.
Current Generation Volkswagen Passat (2019 to Present)
Advanced safety and comfort features are embedded in the current generation Passat. No major changes are observed on the exterior. However, redesigned headlights, and front and rear bumpers are installed to distinguish it from its predecessors.
The current Passat features a digital cockpit supported by Active Info Display. Moreover, customised steering and seat settings are also present.
The engine offered in this generation features particulate filters to reduce the carbon footprint of the vehicles. 1.5-litre petrol and 2.0-litre diesel engines are offered in this generation.
This was the complete Volkswagen Passat history and details regarding its different generations. Passat secures a significant position in the mid-size sedan market due to its durability and the features it offers. That said, if you are interested in learning about the history of other VW vehicles, head over to VW Touareg’s history and uncover its different generations.
If you are also interested in availing of these features, browse through these used VW Passat models for sale in the UAE and drive your sedan.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on VW Passat history.
Related Posts
