Volkswagen has reduced the entry-level price and revised the model lineup in 2010 changes for its mid-size Passat range.
Entry to the Passat family now starts sub-$40K - the 1.8-litre petrol with seven-speed direct shift (DSG) automatic priced at $38,990.
Diesel power starts at $43,990 for the 2.0-litre 125TDI (the top-selling Passat variant) while the V6 petrol Passat – the V6 FSI Highline – is stickered at $55,990.
Passat’s sporty range-topper, the R36 wagon, is priced at $66,990.
The 2.0-litre 103TDI and 2.0-litre 147TSI models have been discontinued.
Extra features have been added to ensure the Passat remains one of Europe’s best buys.
The diesel-powered 125TDI is now only available in the ‘Highline’ specification and gains 17-inch ‘Monte Carlo’ alloy wheels, Napa leather with sports front seats, brushed aluminium trim features, front fog lights and extra chrome for the grille.
The V6 petrol Highline gets 18-inch alloy wheels with sports suspension, electric front seat adjustment and Media Device Interface (MDI).
Passat’s gloriously sporty R36 also gets the MDI plus dark tinted rear windows.
Safety and comfort features rate highly on the upgraded options list – including Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist for braking distance reduction, Park Assist, Lane Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control.
And Passat also scores the latest RNS510 radio navigation system with voice control.
