Pierre Fava is one of the first to test-drive the 2.0 litre TDI Diesel version of the all-new VW Passat, a car that has its roots strongly entrenched in the demanding executive car segment.
The new 2015 Volkswagen Passat is an all-new model which has raised the game once again from its already very well qualified predecessor. The new model shall undoubtedly be in a better position to compete with the already well established mainstream contenders such as Ford, Mazda and Opel, but it shall also attempt to acquire sales from premium brands such as BMW, Audi, Volvo and Jaguar.
With the imminent launch of the Jaguar XE, BMW has already given the current 3 eries an update to have a fresher car on the forecourt ready in waiting for this latest Passat, which has yet again raised the bar for the VW marque.
The executive car segment is a very competitive market and all the offerings coming from both the mainstream carmakers and from the premium brands have a lot to offer a potential buyer. So why would the Passat shine in such great company?
For starters, the build quality is second to none and nobody can deny the fact that Passats are built to last. But what stands out in this latest model is that this car is bigger, lighter and more frugal than the previous model.
The new Passat is more economical and has CO2 levels that are at par or even better than some rival model equivalents. The model I tested on this occasion was a 2.0 litre TDI Diesel version which delivered a smooth and constant supply of power with little stress and almost no noise within the cabin.
Although the car had a DSG automatic gearbox, it still boasts a CO2 emission level of only 122g/km. This most certainly puts the car at a very good level. And, if anyone would like to have a more efficient model, then they could also opt for the 1.6 litre TDI Diesel version which, with the automatic gearbox, offers a very low level of CO2 at 103g/km.
I am sure though that many people buying this sort of car would not only be looking at these emission figures but would also look at the many other features this car has to offer. For starters, the high-quality interior, high level of driving dynamics and the long list of standard features ensure that the Passat is more than capable of mixing with the very best in its segment.
The build quality is second to none and nobody can deny the fact that Passats are built to last
The new Passat sees the introduction of a host of new technologies which the previous model did not offer.
One could argue that it looks very similar to its predecessor, but I am certain that the intention of Volkswagen was to offer an all-new car which looks like an evolution of past models and not a totally different car. This new version looks much sleeker and more grown up.
Although it has a longer wheelbase, having been extended by 79mm, the overall length of the Passat has remained pretty much the same.
The longer wheelbase and larger interior space increase practicality. This model looks smarter, more upmarket than ever and should appeal to a wide audience of buyers.
The shorter front and rear overhangs give the car a more dynamic appearance. In all, it looks very elegant and has a great deal of road presence. The new front nose has been lowered due to the fact that the engine has been mounted lower. This results in a sportier and fresher looking car.
The new Passat has all the creature comforts that one would expect from a car in this class. Some of the features that stand out are undoubtedly the LED front and rear lights, the large LED screen inside the cockpit and the beautifully lit dashboard which also comprises a smaller LED screen that delivers all the information the driver would require at hand while driving. The business-like interior gives the car a purposeful and upmarket feel which is further enhanced by the hip hugging front seats which offer excellent lumbar support, so ideal for long drives.
This is obviously not a car that offers the most exciting of drives, however the longer wheelbase, the great torsional rigidity of the body, the lower centre of gravity and the car’s better weight distribution all add up to offer a great driving experience.
Being lighter than before, the new Passat certainly feels more agile. There is hardly any wind noise or road roar in the cabin. The steering offers light and precise driving manoeuvrability. The very precise and compact turning circle of the steering set-up is exceptional for a car of this size and must be one of the best in its class.
The suspension and damper set-up have been tuned to deliver a really cushioned ride, although the larger wheels and lowered sports suspension fitted to the car I tested did upset matters a little bit due to the many imperfections that are so common on Maltese roads.
Mind you, the car’s set-up is perfect for that buyer who intends to travel abroad as the whole arrangement provides for a good driving experience.
The result is a car that will have the competition worried, and by that I mean both upwards and downwards within this very competitive segment. With a model that is in its eight generation and having sold of 22 million cars, the expectations are always very high and here VW has delivered a true driver’s car.