The timing almost couldn’t be worse for Volkswagen to reveal the restyled 2016 Passat. With all the news focusing on the diesel scandal, it may be a bit hard to focus on the updated Passat. Either way, VW has given the 2016 Passat a long list of upgrades, which includes new styling and more tech.
The timing almost couldn’t be worse for Volkswagen to reveal the restyled 2016 Passat. With all the news focusing on the diesel scandal, it may be a bit hard to focus on the updated Passat. Either way, VW has given the 2016 Passat a long list of upgrades, which includes new styling and more tech.
The current Passat has been criticized for being a bit stale, especially as other midsize sedans in the segment continue to up the style quotient. Thankfully the 2016 Passat now looks a bit more aggressive thanks to its new hood front fenders, grille, front and rear bumpers, trunklid and available LED headlights and taillights.
If you still want an even more aggressive exterior, VW is also offering an R-Line version of the Passat for the first time ever. It gets unique rocker panels, a stylized front bumper with contrasting black accents, a modified rear diffuser, and 19″ anthracite Salvador aluminum-alloy wheels.
Related: VW CEO apologizes for cheating on emissions tests, diesel sales put on hold
Inside the interior gets a new instrument panel that houses VW’s latest MIB II infotainment system that provides access to the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems. The interior also gets upgraded materials and a new steering wheel, two-tone décor panels. The 2016 Passat also gets heated rear seats are a new Easy-Open keyless access that opens the trunk via moving a foot near the rear of the vehicle.
The 2016 Passat will be available with three engine options: the 1.8-liter turbocharged TS four cylinder, 2.0-liter TDI and the 3.6-liter VR6 engine. Pricing starts at $22,440.
Source: VW
