Volkswagen announces Passat update made in Chattanooga

DETROIT, Michigan (WDEF) – Volkswagen announces an update for the Passat line made in Chattanooga.

The all-new 2020 Passat boasts a new look, a more powerful engine, new standard features and a new bumper-to-bumper warranty, which VW claims is the best in the U.S.

Company officials frame the update as a bold wager on cars in the U.S. market.

Automakers have cut sedans like the Ford Focus & Fiesta, Chrylser 200, Chevy’s Cruze & Impala, Cadillac CT6, and Dodge Dart.

Volkswagen officials know the sedan market is dwindling, but they say the 2020 Passat is designed to grab a larger share of that market.

And is certainly good news for people on the Passat line in Chattanooga.

“There still is a market for this, yes it’s smaller, but in our minds it’s still worth fighting for.”

The restyled Passat has standard LED headlights, and tail lamps, 17-inch alloy wheels.  The look has a more “coupe-like” roof line plus an aggressive grille.  A torque converter in the six-speed and front wheel drive transmission increases the torque.

The interior is similar to the current Passat. It does add a new instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. You also will get new seat coverings and leather.

The new tech centers on the MIB II Composition Media infotainment interface, which will be standard. Smartphones will be integrated through Car-Net App-Connect technology.

The 2020 Passat also features forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitoring lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. You will also get parking assistance and VW’s Automatic Post-Collision Braking System.

Volkswagen also says their “People First Warranty” is the best bumper-tobumper limited warranty in the U.S… six years of 72,000 miles.

The car arrives in showrooms by the middle of this year.