The Passat’s future was uncertain but there will be 9th generation.
All B9 Passat, in all markets, will be based on the same MQB platform.
Plans include an electric version as well.
The decline in interest and sales of sedans in most global markets had put the Passat’s future in doubt. The Chinese market, which sells both versions of the Passat, is said to have pushed Volkswagen to bring a new version to market.
Currently, there are two versions of the Passat. There’s the “American” one based on the previous-generation platform and the European one that is built on the MQB platform. In the future, according to Autocar.co.uk, all 9th generation Passats will be assembled on an updated iteration of the MQB, one that will be designed to accommodate hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and EV powertrains, as well as FWD and AWD configurations.
2020 Volkswagen Passat Estate | Photo: Volkswagen
The new B9’s styling is already set and one insider said: “With the Arteon, we already have a style leader in the segment. This leaves the door open for the Passat to become even more space-orientated than today’s model.”
It is unclear if a sedan will return or if the Passat will feature a 5-door liftback body style but, for European markets at least, the wagon will continue. The car will offer a longer wheelbase and a wider track for more interior capacity.
2021 Volkswagen Arteon | Photo: Volkswagen
With the Arteon and production version of the Volkswagen ID. Vizzion, we wonder if there will be room for all three on the North American market. Finally, more than 30 million Passats have been sold since 1973, making it the second most popular VW behind only the Golf.
2020 Volkswagen Passat | Photo: Volkswagen
