Spy images of the 2015 Volkswagen Passat have surfaced online this week from China, revealing the new sedan with a longer wheelbase. The next generation Passat B8 known as Magotan in China, is expected to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show, later this year. The spied Chinese version is expected to be no different from the European Passat which was spied testing in heavy camouflage in early April. But the Chinese Magotan will get that extended wheelbase of 10 cm adding an extra bit of comfort.
All Passat B8 variants, European or Chinese will be based on the new MQB (Modular Transversal Toolkit) platform, which is touted to be the most versatile platform to be designed by the Volkswagen Group. MQB has the capability to be integrated with almost any type of engine or propulsion system like gas, plug-in hybrid, petrol or diesel. Appearance wise, the next generation Passat B8 will be given cosmetic upgrades, both at the exterior and interior. The front face with slender headlights and grills add a sense of width and luxury to the premium sedan.
The side view as revealed by the spy images shows a low roofline. But this may only be for the extended wheelbase model in China.
The rear however doesn’t reveal any radical change apart form a slightly tweaked tail lights. The interior however has been given a significant amount of detailing and chrome, in particular.
The newly designed flat-bottom steering wheel with an innovative use of chrome, leather and wood on the dashboard, will certainly add style and suave to the cockpit area. An interesting detail is the chrome grill extending across the dashboard which also disguise the AC vents. Cabin space otherwise is expected to remain similar to the current B7.
Power wise the new breed is expected to be rolled out in 1.4 TSI, 1.8 TSI, 2.0 TSI petrol engines, as well as 1.6 TDI and 2.0 TDI diesel engines. In addition to the conventional fuels, the car will also be made available in a plug-in hybrid version and a later, pure electric version which is expected to hit the 50 kmpl mark. The MQB platform will prove to be a very crucial and economic advantage in switching the propulsion system.
Passat which made its debut in India in 2007, went through a generation change in 2011. But the premium car hasn’t been able to win the hearts and have resulted a lot of post-purchase service related grievances from the customers. Such has been the problems that even the dealers have stopped entertaining Passat inquiries even test drive cars are also not available. Most of the dealers have cleared the stock and are promoting the top-end Jetta instead. The 2015 Passat may breath fresh life in the premium segment and boost the sales of the marquee which has been around since 1973. Expect this cutting edge luxury sedan to be priced around INR 30 lakhs in India. Only time will tell if the cosmetic update will be enough to bring smiles to both the customers and the maker.
We will keep you posted with further developments, so stay tuned to Car Blog India.
Spy Picture Courtesy: auto.163.com
