The Volkswagen Passat sports a new look, more tech, and better safety equipment for the 2020 model year. But one thing the mid-sized sedan doesn’t get is a price hike. The 2020 Passat starts at $22,995 in the U.S. (not including destination and handling fees), making it $2,300 more affordable than the model it replaces. The 2019 VW Passat – which is still available on the VW consumer site – starts at $25,295. 

Here’s how the 2020 VW Passat stacks up to the competition:

Model Price
2020 Subaru Legacy $22,745
2020 Volkswagen Passat $22,995
2020 Honda Accord $23,870
2020 Mazda6 $24,000
2020 Nissan Altima $24,100
2020 Toyota Camry $24,295

The 2020 Passat does use some hand-me-downs, though. The same 2.0-liter engine from the previous model carries over, producing the same 174 horsepower (129 kilowatts). Thanks to new torque converter and improved software, though, at least torque gets a boost. Maximum torque is 206 pound-feet (279 Newton-meters), an improvement of 22 lb-ft (30 Nm) from 2019. Power travels to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic gearbox. 

The new Passat also uses the same platform as its predecessor. Only the China-market sedan gets the new MQB platform, which underpins most modern VW products, including the new Golf. But at least it this one looks different; the 2020 Passat gets a sharper front fascia with LED headlights, a revised rear with matching LED taillights, and unique 17-, 18-, and 19-inch wheel options, depending on the trim. 

2020 VW Passat
2020 VW Passat

Inside the 2020 Passat is an upgraded dashboard with tech borrowed from other VW products, as well as a more-modern instrument panel and new materials throughout. Buyers can choose between VW’s fake "V-Tex" leatherette or full Nappa leather, depending on the trim. And there will be four trim levels to choose from when it goes on sale. 

The 2020 VW Passat hits U.S. dealers later this year. 

Gallery: 2020 Volkswagen Passat

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Today, Volkswagen of America, Inc., announced that pricing for the new 2020 Passat will start at $22,995 MSRP. Building on the success of the current generation’s combination of copious amounts of interior space, creature comforts, and Volkswagen’s signature fun-to-drive nature, the new Passat offers more of what matters—bolder design, upgraded technology, and enhanced access to convenience and driver-assistance features.

The new Passat continues to be powered by Volkswagen’s 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine, making 174 horsepower. A new torque converter, combined with new software, boosts output to 206 pound-feet of torque. The power is taken to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic®.

While the 2020 Passat retains the underpinnings of the previous model, it has been completely restyled. Outside, a dynamic coupe-like roofline, dramatic “tornado” line, and dominant grille give the Passat a bold new look—at once, elegant and sporty. Standard slim LED headlights and taillights, along with more prominent Passat badging that runs the width of the trunklid, give the car a more premium look. All-new standard 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels enhance the sophisticated design, and new 18- and 19-inch wheels are available.

Inside, the Passat combines a sophisticated new dash design and upgraded technology with the spacious cabin that made the outgoing model popular. The cockpit features a horizontal design, incorporating air vents that flow across the dash in a style reminiscent of premium models. A new, more contemporary instrument panel has been fitted, along with a new glass-covered infotainment touchscreen. Complementing the new interior design are new colors and premium materials. Three interior décor designs are available, based on trim. Volkswagen’s V-Tex leatherette and Nappa leather seating surfaces are available in addition to the standard cloth seats, and four color options are available depending on material.

The 2020 Volkswagen Passat will be available in four trim levels and is expected to begin arriving at U.S. Volkswagen dealers by the end of 2019.

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