Close on the heels of introducing the 'Connect' editions of the Polo, Ameo, and Vento, Volkswagen India has come up with a similar variant for the Passat. Dubbed simply as the VW Passat Connect, the new model has a base price of INR 25.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Pan-India).
The VW Passat Connect features the ‘Volkswagen Connect’ advanced telematics and vehicle assistance system. The driver can connect the car to his smartphone through a plug and play data dongle to the onboard diagnostics (OBD) port of the vehicle. Once installed and connected via Bluetooth, the app enables the user to use connected features like trip tracking, fuel cost monitor, driving behaviour, location sharing, SOS calls and service appointments. The Volkswagen Connect application is compatible with both Android and iOS platforms.
Mechanically, the VW Passat Connect stays completely unchanged. It is powered by a 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine that outputs a maximum power of 177 PS along with a peak torque of 350 Nm. The motor comes mated to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The claimed fuel efficiency of the powertrain has been rated at 17.42 km/l. The vehicle comes equipped with a ‘Think Blue Trainer’, which gives the driver tips for improving the car's efficiency.
Features that the VW Passat comes kitted out with include dynamic chassis control, nine airbags, hill-start assist and auto-hold, Nappa leather seats, three-zone climate control, LED headlamps with DRLs, LED tail-lamps, reverse camera with a 360-degree view, park sensors,electric adjustable front seats with heating and massage functions, and a hands-free boot opening mechanism.
Also Read - Volkswagen Passat Test Drive Review
The VW Passat Connect is available in two variants - Comfortline and Highline. The former costs INR 25.99 lakh while the latter has been priced at INR 28.99 lakh. The new model rivals the likes of Skoda Superb and Toyota Camry Hybrid.
