Volkswagen Passat launched for Rs 29.99 lakhs (ex-showroom, New Delhi)

The Volkswagen Passat has been launched for Rs 29.99 lakhs for the comfortline and and the Highline has been launched for Rs 32.99 lakhs for the Highline variant. This is the third-generation of Passat that has been launched for India. It is based on the MQB platform, just like the Superb. Volkswagen had earlier plans to get it with the GTE, which is the plug-in hybrid version of the Passat. But now it seems there has been a change in its plans. The new Volkswagen Passat competes with the Skoda Superb. This also comes with a 2.0-litre diesel engine churning about 174bhp of power and 350Nm of peak torque. This engine comes mated with six-speed DSG. This sedan comes with a 2+2 service value pack. The top-of-the-line variant comes with nine airbags, ESC and even Full LED headlamp. It also gets auto hold, tyre pressure monitoring system and dynamic chassis control. The Highline variant gets panoramic sunroof and 17-inch wheels as well.

There are LED headlamps with daytime running lights too. Vienna/Nappa leather upholstery on Comfortline/Highline. There is park-assist with hands free parking, keyless access, cruise control and more comforting features available. As this is a direct rival of the Superb, it does pack in some extra offerings. But what it misses out on is the brand name that the Superb has developed and also the knee room for the rear passengers. We reckon this is an expensive option, as the Superb has built a strong reputation for itself and Passat to shake up the Superb image, needs to do something revolutionary.