For 2016, Volkswagen has dropped the five-speed manual transmission from the Passat lineup due to underwhelming consumer take rate.
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When new content in the sedan is factored in, the price represents a $1,315 value enhancement over the base 2015 Passat, according to the automaker.
The base Passat 1.8T S will start at $22,440, before destination charge, VW of America announced today, claiming a savings of $1,315 over last year’s base model. It comes standard with an upgraded infotainment system and leatherette seats that are heated and power-operated up front.
The company will be offering an R-Line version of the Passat in the United States market for the first time, featuring unique rocker panels, a stylized front bumper with contrasting black accents, a modified rear diffuser and 19-inch aluminum wheels. Standard equipment on the 1.8T S includes dual-zone climate control, a 5-inch color touchscreen infotainment system, 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, Bluetooth, rearview camera, and automatic post-collision braking. Adaptive cruise control with forward collision warning and emergency braking are also standard equipment for the SE. For even more there is the SE w/technology at $29,230, slapping on blind-spot monitoring, keyless entry with push-button start, rear cross-traffic alert, navigation, and heated rear seats.
Trim levels below the SEL Premium offer the LEDs through a Lighting Package that runs $1,095 to $1,245, depending on trim. For an extra $775, buyers can opt for the Comfort Package with V-Tex leatherette seats, power driver seats, heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, and heated washer nozzles.
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SEL Premium ($35,090): The SEL Premium adds lane departure warning, corrective steering assist for the lane departure and blind spot warning systems, LED headlights and taillights, and automatic parking with front and rear sensors. If this isn’t enough for you, Volkswagen is also allowing customers the opportunity to order the 3.6 liter VR6 engine, with 280 HP (208 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, connected to a 6-speed DSG. The V6 SEL Premium is at the top of the range and starts at $37,655. Volkswagen’s turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder (170 hp, 184 pounds-feet of torque) powers all but the V6 SEL Premium. Volkswagen now recommends regular gas for the V-6, though its power ratings are for premium fuel.
