Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has officially launched the facelifted eight-generation Volkswagen Passat in our market. At launch, only one variant is available – the Passat 2.0TSI Elegance, priced at RM189,012 on-the-road without insurance.
The Passat Elegance comes just four months after its market launch in September 2019 – a testament of VPCM’s localisation efforts. The mid-life update features a redesign on both its exterior and interior, a new drivetrain combo, as well as improved connectivity.
First, the juicy bits – The facelifted Passat 2.0TSI Elegance is powered by a new 2.0-litre TSI turbocharged engine, providing an output of 190 hp and 320 Nm of twist – slightly reduced from the pre-facelift 2.0TSI Highline.
The engine is paired to a new seven-speed wet clutch DSG transmission – VPCM says that the updated Passat is the first front-wheel drive Volkswagen model in Malaysia to receive this gearbox.
No performance figures were provided by VPCM, although the company says that fuel consumption for the Passat Elegance is rated at 6.5 l/100km according to the WLTP test cycle.
Styling wise, the Passat 2.0TSI Elegance receives redesigned bumpers on both ends for a sharper appearance. However, the most notable change on the exterior is the new lighting system.
At the front, the fully-LED headlights have been redesigned, and now features a sequential turn signal indicator. Unfortunately, we do not get the IQ.Light matrix LED headlights, which is a premium option in other markets.
Rear combination light clusters have also been restyled with a new internal graphic, featuring the “three-wing” design, as well as sequential turn signal indicators.
Other distinguishing exterior features include the Passat lettering at the rear, as well as the new 18-inch “Liverpool” alloy wheels, wrapped in 235/45 rubbers.
Inside, the Passat 2.0TSI Elegance gets a new 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment display with voice control, gesture control and a customizable three-view split screen.
The new infotainment system also adds support for Wireless AppConnect with Apple CarPlay – a first for Volkswagen. Other connectivity features include three illuminated USB-C ports (no more USB-A), and Bluetooth connectivity.
The redesigned interior also include newly-designed door trims, 30-colour ambient lighting, 11.7-inch Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, as well as a new leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel.
Comfort amenities are aplenty in the Passat 2.0TSI Elegance, including 12-way power adjustable leather seats, three-zone climate control, and a power-operated roll up rear sunshade.
In terms of safety, the Volkswagen Passat 2.0TSI Elegance now comes equipped with Side Assist with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (180-degree detection range of up to 50 metres), Blind Spot Monitoring System (70-metre detection range), and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.
Other safety features include EBS with ABS, Brake Assist (automatically increases brake pressure by up to 40%), Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS), hill-hold control, Automatic Post-collision Braking System, and Proactive Passenger Protection System.
The facelifted Passat Elegance is available in six colours and two finishes – Metallic colours include Aquamarine Blue, Manganese Grey, Reflex Silver and Tamarind Brown, while pearl-effect shades are Deep Black and a new Ornyx White.
As with all new Volkswagen cars, the Passat 2.0TSI Elegance comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, five-year roadside assistance, as well as a three-year free maintenance package.
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