B8 Volkswagen Passat – Old VS New: All You Need to Know About the Updates

Volkswagen unveiled the updated B8 Passat in Malaysia about a month ago, with many subtle yet significant updates.

However, when parked next to one another, the new Passat 2.0 TSI Elegance still looks a lot like the outgoing pre-facelift model. So, it isn't really your fault, especially those who are not really into cars, if you can’t tell the difference between the current and the former.

But don’t worry, we are going to break down all the differences between the two models to help you distinguish both them clearly the next time you see one on the road. As a term of reference the Aquamarine Blue Passat is the 2020 version. 

1. Exterior Design

On the exterior, changes on the new Passat include a redesigned front grille, a new bumper, tweaked LED headlights with “eyebrow” DRLs, new sequential indicators, as well as redesigned air intakes.

At the back, the tail lights are also new, with arrow-like graphics and sequential turn signals. The rear bumper has also been redesigned.

Last but not least we have the new 18-inch wheels, and the “Passat” lettering which runs across the boot.

2. Interior Features

Inside, key changes include a new steering wheel, the new Discover Pro infotainment system with a larger 9.2-inch touchscreen, voice command, gesture control, and the AppConnect system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The ports have also been changed from USB to USB-C. In addition, the door panels have also been redesigned.

Further complementing the interior is the 12-way powered electric driver’s seat, 3-zone Climatronic air-conditioning system for all passengers, and new power-operated roll up rear sunshades. Boot space on the other hand, stands at 586-litres.

Also new is the 11.7-inch Digital Cockpit which offers a high-resolution, thin-film transistor (TFT) similar to that of a smartphone, which incorporates functions and features in 2D and 3D graphic display for navigation and media. A six-view customizable screen offers a new level of personalization with over 30 combination options.

3. New Gearbox

Powering the new Passat 2.0 TSI Elegance is an updated version of the current 2.0-litre TSI engine that is paired with a new 7-speed wet dual-clutch automatic gearbox, kicking out 190 PS and 320 Nm, which is 30 PS and 30 Nm lesser than the outgoing Passat 2.0 TSI Highline.

Prior to this, the Passat 1.8 TSI came with a 7-speed dry-type dual clutch automatic transmission, while the 2.0 TSI variants came with a 6-speed wet-type dual clutch automatic transmission. In line with the upgrade, there is no more Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) where you could choose between 5 driving modes, or the  XDS electronic differential lock.

Safety and driver assistance

Where safety is concerned, new features include Side Assist with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, as well as the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, which complement other features like the Blind Spot Monitoring System, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Brake Assist (BA), Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS), Hill-hold Control, Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, and the Proactive Passenger Protection System.

Variants and price

Prior to the update, the Volkswagen Passat was offered in three variants - Comfortline, Trendline, and Highline, with two engine options (1.8 TSI and 2.0 TSI) to choose from, with prices ranging between RM159,990 and RM198,990. Now however, the Passat will only be offered in one variant – the Passat 2.0 TSI Elegance which replaces the outgoing Highline, with an asking price of RM189,012 which is about RM9,000 cheaper.