Volkswagen Passat

Though the Passat isn’t very different than the previous model, it still is a quite a leap forward

Published on May 04, 2011 07:00:00 AM

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The changes to Passat’s interiors are less dramatic and hence feel quite familiar. The clarity of the dashboard’s layout is just as good as before and the black top jutting over the mock wood horizontal band is similar to the older car. The instrumentation is easier to read and an analogue clock takes pride of place at the top of a redesigned centre console. The door trim is completely new as well. The top-of-the-line Highline version we tested comes with a keyless entry and gets a starter button next to the gear lever. That’s where you’ll now find the switch for the electronic parking brake too which has moved from the fiddly, dashboard-mounted location of the earlier car. Plastic quality is even better than before and the materials feel rich though some shiny bits are not upto the mark. However, for sheer craftsmanship, the Passat sets a new standard for its class.

The Highline variant comes with 12-way motorised adjustment, so it’s easy to find a comfortable seating position. Pampering the driver even more are seats that can be cooled or heated. However, unlike the previous Passat, the new model’s front seats are not as well contoured and are a touch flat, especially for enthusiastic driving. There’s minimal side bolstering and the seat cushions feel a bit firm on first acquaintance.

The rear seats with their high seating position feel very supportive and offer ample legroom and under-thigh support. An armrest with pop-out cupholders folds out of the centre seat backrest but stows away neatly to not bother the middle passenger. The central tunnel, however, will get in the way to some degree.

In terms of equipment, the Passat is packed to its gills. Dual-zone climate control is standard and if you want some fresh air, there’s a sunroof as well. Thankfully, VW has given the new Passat better media connectivity with an aux-in and USB jack. The USB plug though is a little inconveniently located in a little pull-down pocket in the glovebox. A reversing camera is tucked away under the badge on the bootlid and flips out when you slot reverse. The display unit for the camera also doubles up as the touchscreen for the music system.