The new Passat is based on a development of the MQB evo platform used in the old car, and as a result, it drives almost the same. The biggest difference came from the new optional DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control) system, which can adjust the stiffness of the shock absorbers. There are 15 different levels - probably too many for a family property - and you have to manually select this from the central touchscreen to reach maximum hardness.
It may be 50 mm longer in wheelbase, 144 mm in the body and 20 mm in width, but it's just as easy to place on the road thanks to good visibility in all directions.
It's a nice place, although the interior isn't very special. In fact, it is almost identical to the new Tiguan. The Elegance model came with a panoramic roof and massaging seats, but entry-level Life models still come with tri-zone climate control, a power liftgate, adaptive cruise control, and a rearview camera.
The new 15-inch central touchscreen takes up most of the instrument panel; It is the same unit we saw in ID.7. It's a responsive and easy-to-understand system, though some of the customizable shortcut widgets could be a bit larger.
With the new Superb, the development really shows in some places. Instead, the Passat uses a touch slider below the main screen; This is at least backlit now, but it's still not our favorite feature. Fortunately, Volkswagen has reverted to physical switches on the steering wheel.
Another big benefit of using Skoda's know-how for the new Passat is the size of the space. In addition to clever storage spots such as pockets behind the front seats, the rear legroom on offer isn't bad at all in a Mercedes S-Class. The massive 690-litre boot also matches that of the Superb, expanding to 1,920 liters with the rear seats down.
The new Passat's base Life trim starts at £38,480, with the Elegance car starting at £41,580; Prices for the top-spec R-Line (there will be no hot R model) start from £42,830.
Source: https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/volkswagen/passat/362495/new-volkswagen-passat-2024-review-vws-trust-skoda-was-wise-move
