The 2021 Volkswagen Passat will be available in three value-laden trim levels: S, SE, and R-Line. All Passat models now feature standard Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) as well upgraded interior accents including a leather-wrapped steering wheel, gearshift knob, and brake handle. SE models welcome standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, a tilt-and-slide sunroof, and a Bumperdillo bumper protector.
In a modest value realignment, the Passat R-Line offers more features and infotainment. The Discover Media unit and Fender Premium Audio system are standard on the R-Line® model for a more connected experience. Additionally, the Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) and Light Assist are now standard on the R-Line.
Pricing for the 2021 Volkswagen Passat starts at $23,995 MSRP for the Passat S with the standard 2.0T engine and 6-speed automatic transmission.
The sophisticated design and coupe-like roofline on the 2021 Passat helps it stand out from the rest of the midsize sedan competitors. Slim headlights and a dominant grille give the Passat a focused, expressive face. The powerful promise of the front end is supported by an elegant and dynamic side treatment that features a strong Tornado line.
Standard 17-inch ten-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels and 215/55R17 tires give the car a more dynamic stance, while SE models come shod with 18-inch five-spoke two tone wheels and 235/45/R18 rubber.
R-Line models take the basic design and up the ante. The more aggressive front end treatment features a unique bumper with C-signature air intakes in gloss black and adds vertical chrome stripes to the grille. From the side, R-line models are distinguished by badging on the flitzer and black window surrounds.
At the back, a rear diffuser and rear spoiler add a sporty touch. R-Line models feature striking 19-inch, two-tone, five-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels shod with 235/40R19 rubber.
Standard LED head- and taillights help the car stand out from the crowd and enhance the modern design. Passat R-Line trims are further equipped with Volkswagen’s Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) with range control and cornering lights.
A power-tilt-and-slide sunroof is standard equipment on Passat SE and R-Line models. Prominent Passat badging, that runs the width of the decklid, finishes the car with a premium look. The Passat is available in six colors—Pure White, Reflex Silver, Platinum Grey, Deep Black Pearl, Aurora Red Chroma, and Tourmaline Blue.
Like the exterior, the interior conveys sophistication and quality. The cockpit in the Passat incorporates a horizontal design that emphasizes the interior space; the concept is prominently illustrated by a long horizontal element that stretches the length of the dashboard, incorporating the air vents and instrument panel. For further ambience, a trapezoidal center display for the infotainment system is housed in glass.
Despite its coupe-like styling, the 2021 Passat offers copious amounts of cabin space. Base-level S models come with cloth seats in Titan Black. SE trims upgrade to Volkswagen’s V-Tex leatherette, which is offered in Titan Black, Shetland Beige, and Mauro Brown. R-Line trims also adopt V-Tex, with two color options—Titan Black and two-tone Titan Black and Shetland Beige.
The Passat offers heated front seats as standard on SE and R-Line models. A powered driver’s seat with memory is featured on SE and R-Line trims. Additionally, S and SE models feature a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel as well as leather-wrapped gearshift knob and brake handle. In R-Line models, the 2021 Passat is equipped with a leather-trimmed sport steering wheel that features shift paddles.
All 2021 Passat models feature innovative Volkswagen MIB2 touchscreen infotainment systems. The displays utilize a capacitive-touch sensor (as in smartphone and tablet technology) rather than the more common resistive touchscreens that require pressure, enabling controls like swiping and even pinch-zooming. App-Connect smartphone integration for compatible devices is standard and offers users the ability to run select smartphone apps directly on the vehicle’s display through services such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink.
Car-Net Remote Access allows owners the ability to interact with their vehicle from miles away via the mobile app. It is offered at no additional charge for five years from the date of vehicle purchase. Features include remote door lock and unlock, remote honk and flash of lights, last parked location, and remote vehicle status display, which provides information on estimated fuel level and mileage and door and window status.
Car-Net Hotspot allows passengers to access the internet with up to four connected devices simultaneously, including compatible tablets, smartphones, laptops, gaming devices, and more— at 4G LTE-enabled speed.
To help protect occupants, the Passat provides a combination of both passive and active safety systems. It features six airbags as standard (front and side airbags for front passengers and side curtain airbags for outboard seating positions), along with a number of electronic safety systems, such as an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
The Passat also includes Volkswagen’s Intelligent Crash Response System that shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and switches on the hazard lights if the car is involved in certain types of collisions. All Passat models feature a standard rearview camera.
To help meet the demands of American drivers, the 2021 Passat offers a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technology. Available features include: Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring (Front Assist); Blind Spot Monitor; Rear Traffic Alert; Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC); Lane Keeping System (Lane Assist); and High Beam Control (Light Assist).
Front Assist, standard on all Passat models, is intended to warn drivers of potential frontal collisions (Forward Collision Warning) with vehicles and pedestrians, and in some cases provide automatic braking assistance (Autonomous Emergency Braking).
