2011 Volkswagen Passat: ‘entirely all new’

VW calls this “an entirely new Passat,” although its foundations are essentially the same as those of generation six. Still, the sheetmetal that adorns the two body styles—sedan and wagon—is all new: recognizably Passat but a little sleeker, its face brightened with a bevy of LED running lights. This car features a number of technical […]

VW calls this “an entirely new Passat,” although its foundations are essentially the same as those of generation six. Still, the sheetmetal that adorns the two body styles—sedan and wagon—is all new: recognizably Passat but a little sleeker, its face brightened with a bevy of LED running lights.

This car features a number of technical upgrades, including fuel-saving engine stop/start tech, a fatigue-recognition system for the driver and a very cool Easy Open trunk (on keyless-entry models) that pops open the decklid when the key-bearer passes their foot under a sensor mounted beneath the right side of the rear bumper. There is a choice, VW says, of 10 different engines globally: four gasoline, four turbo-diesel, one set up for natural gas, and one designed for E85 fuel. So! It could have been introduced in the current models on sale.

It’s an appealing package. But if you’re one of the American specification admires, then there’s bad news: It won’t be going here. That’s because the Passat has moved steadily upscale, becoming pricey versus its many mid-size competitors in the U.S. market. Sized between the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, that sedan is aimed squarely at U.S. customers and shares little with the Passat, according to VW; it will be, naturally, less expensive.

In Nigeria, we could expect it but that depends on the plant which stallion motor will be importing theirs from. It does look that exciting but for the fact that its new, maybe Nigerians will appreciate it. Here in Sunday Trust Motoring, the Passat has not done much other than improve their package change the nose of the car and make the rear resemble its bigger brother ‘the Pheaton’.  The sixth generation Passat is the best midsize or family saloon/wagon VW has produced. I quote for What Car 2006 guide “there is a thin line between family car and compact executive.