Marko Hanželic
The new generation of the Volkswagen Passat model is only available in Europe as a van version of the Variant, but Chinese buyers cannot give up the classic sedan. That is why the VW Passat Pro premiered at the Chengdu Motor Show, which, compared to the European Passat Variant, boasts a longer wheelbase, a more elegant design and more premium interior equipment.
The Passat Pro is a product of the SAIC-Volkswagen joint venture and is an alternative to the similarly large Magotan model from FAW-Volkswagen. Visually, it borrows the shape of the front part from the European van, but has its own silhouette, which leads to a completely changed rear.
The model is available in two different versions - Pioneer Edition and Starry Sky Edition - with an optional Black Warrior kit that gives it a sportier look. The R-Line is not mentioned, suggesting that VW uses a different naming scheme for model equipment in China.
The VW Passat Pro boasts fairly generous dimensions. It measures 5.006 mm in length, 1.850 mm in width, 1.489 mm in height, and the wheelbase is 2.871 mm. In other words, the sedan is 89 mm longer than the European version of the Passat Variant, and the wheelbase is an additional 30 mm longer. The Chinese Magotan model has the same wheelbase but is 16mm shorter in length.
Inside, the digital cockpit consists of a 10,3-inch instrument panel, a 15-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11,6-inch screen for the passenger. VW also equipped the model with an augmented reality display, a Harman Kardon audio system with 16 speakers and advanced driving assistance systems (L2++ IQ. Pilot) developed by DJI, which primarily produces drones.
Another interesting innovation is the additional foam in the seats (the cloud-feeling), which are electrically adjustable and offer ventilation, heating and massaging functions in both types. Finally, 30-color ambient lighting and an in-vehicle fragrance application system enhance the passenger experience.
Based on the MQB platform, the sedan is powered by a 2,0-liter four-cylinder TSI turbocharged gasoline engine that produces 162 kW (220 hp) and 350 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels exclusively via a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission.
Preliminary documents from the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology indicate that the VW Passat Pro will also be available with a basic 1,5 TSI engine with 118 kW (160 hp). Unlike the mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains available in Europe, there is no talk of electrified versions yet.
VW has opened pre-orders for the Passat Pro in China, with pricing to be announced at a later date. According to SAIC Volkswagen, alongside the new Passat Pro, the Chinese version of the Passat, which was introduced in 2019 and redesigned in 2022, will remain on sale.
