Chinese buyers will have the option between the similarly sized Passat and Magotan sedans by Volkswagen’s SAIC and FAW joint ventures respectively
- The VW Passat Pro revealed its design ahead of an official debut that is expected in the third quarter of 2024.
- It looks similar to the EU-spec VW Passat Variant but has different sheet metal on the profile and a sleeker tail.
- The four-door sedan will be produced by SAIC Volkswagen in China and is not intended for export markets.
The ninth generation of the VW Passat made its debut last year in Europe, exclusively available in a Variant (estate) bodystyle. However, the Chinese market has different preferences, with sedans dominating sales charts. In light of this, Volkswagen is preparing to introduce a four-door version of the Passat to join its sedan-centric lineup in China, alongside the closely-related Magotan.
The upcoming model has not yet made its official debut, but its design and specifications were fully revealed in photos from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. The four-door Passat is branded with the “Pro” moniker alongside Chinese lettering on the tailgate.
More: New VW Magotan Gets Fancy Triple-Screen Setup In China, Could More Models Follow?
Its design is recognizable, sharing body panels with the European Passat Variant, including the entire front end with ID-style headlights and the “smiling” bumper intake. In addition to the standard version, it is also available with sportier-looking bumpers, akin to the EU-spec R-Line trim.
The Passat Pro shares its greenhouse with the upcoming Magotan, although the sheet metal on the profile differs. Depending on the trim level, the Passat is equipped with 17-, 18-, or even 19-inch alloy wheels. At the rear, the model features familiar full-width taillight clusters with unique LED graphics. The rear bumper is conservative, featuring decorative inlets and Skoda-style reflectors.
Volkswagen’s latest mid-size sedan measures 5,006 mm (197.1 inches) in length, 1,850 mm (72.8 inches) in width, and 1,489 mm (58.6 inches) in height. This makes it 89 mm (3.5 inches) longer than the Passat Variant and 94 mm (3.7 inches) longer than the mechanically related Skoda Superb liftback. Additionally, the Passat Pro boasts a wheelbase of 2,871 mm (113 inches), which is 30 mm (1.2 inches) longer than the aforementioned models.
We don’t get to see the interior of the VW Passat sedan but we wouldn’t be surprised if it the digital cockpit was shared with the Magotan. Higher trim models will most likely get the 12.9-inch free-standing infotainment touchscreen with Chinese-specific software, alongside the latest in comfort and safety equipment.
Unlike the EU-spec Passat Variant which is available with a range of gasoline, diesel mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, the Chinese MQB-based sedan offers the option between two non-electrified gasoline engines. The entry-level 1.5-liter turbocharged four produces 158 hp (118 kW / 160 PS), while the flagship turbo 2.0-liter engine is good for 217 hp (162 kW / 220 PS).
The market launch of the new VW Passat Pro in China is expected in the third quarter of 2024. Just like its predecessor, the new model will be produced by SAIC Volkswagen in Shanghai and is not intended for export markets. The same applies to the similarly-sized Magotan that will be produced by the FAW Volkswagen joint venture.
