B8 Volkswagen Passat Facelift Debuts In Malaysia – 1 Variant, RM189k

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia today announced the introduction of the facelifted B8 Passat, featuring a redesigned front and rear end, an updated powertrain, an updated infotainment system, as well as new convenience and safety features.

Locally-assembled at the DRB-Hicom plant in Pekan, Pahang, the new Passat will only be offered in one variant – the Passat 2.0 TSI Elegance, with an asking price of RM189,012 on the road without insurance.

Prior to the update, the model 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, there will only be one powertrain option - 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.

On the exterior, a refreshed front and rear profile distinguish the new Passat from its previous iteration, while other distinctions include the “Passat” lettering stretched across its rear and bold 18-inch “Liverpool” alloy wheels.

The lights are also new, featuring an all-LED headlight system, front and rear sequential turn signals, and a three-wing tail light design.

Inside, updates include newly-designed door trims, a 30-colour ambient lighting system, and a new leather multi-function steering wheel with new ergonomic multifunction button for convenience and connectivity at the touch of a button.

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 combinations options.

While the outgoing range-topping Passat 2.0 TSI Highline came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with GPS navigation and MirrorLink, the new one here comes with a 9.2 -inch touchscreen with voice control, gesture control, customizable three-view split screen, as well as Wireless AppConnect with Apple Car Play.

Other features include a wide range of connectivity options through a capacitive touch display, three illuminated USB-C ports and Bluetooth connectivity for mobile and audio streaming.

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.

Last but not least, the new Passat 2.0 TSI Elegance is available in six colours and two finishes - Aquamarine Blue, Manganese Grey, Reflex Silver, Tamarind Brown, Deep Black, and a new Oryx White.