2024 Volkswagen Passat Owner’s Manual

The Passat is one of Volkswagen’s most recognizable nameplates, outselling the legendary Beetle and only behind the Golf on the list of all-time best-selling names from the manufacturer. Still, it might be nearing its end, as evidenced by the 2024 Volkswagen Passat release.

Volkswagen ceased production of the Passat in the United States after the 2022 manufacturing year, leaving Europe as the only other primary market that still sees significant shipments of this nameplate.

However, even in Europe, where the Passat remains in production, it will see some dramatic changes for the new model. The 2024 VW Passat kick starts a new, night generation of nameplates that ditches the sedan completely and comes available solely in a station wagon form factor.

This new iteration of the midsize family car features a dramatically larger frame that is 5.7 inches longer and 0.8 inches wider than the previous model and now features a wheelbase that is 1.97 inches longer.

The jump in size directly translates to the cabin, which comes with enhanced roominess that sees both the legroom for both seat rows and the volume of the cargo compartment grow in size.
Other notable changes to the interior include a redesign that eliminates the bulk of the switchgear, opting instead for a gear selector that sits on the steering column, and creating even more cargo space where the switchgear used to be.

The new Passat’s exterior is not left behind, too, as it now features several modifications that align the nameplate’s profile with Volkwagen’s newer electric offering without completely overhauling the old Passat look.

Under the hood, the changes are more comprehensive, with the Volkswagen Passat featuring a mild-hybrid gasoline engine system for the first time ever. This base powertrain sports 1.5-liter engines that use electric motors and eTSI cylinder deactivation technology to produce a combined 148 HP.

Alternatively, you can opt for a bigger 201-HP 2-liter engine with the same technology or an even beefier 261-HP variant that comes standard with all-wheel drive. The smaller 2-liter engine, like the 1.5-liter base unit, only features front-wheel drive.