VW Passat major facelift latest spy photos - not next generation model

 VW Passat major facelift latest spy photos - not next generation model
VW Passat B6 major facelift spy photo 11.06.2010 / Copyright: SB-Medien

Redesign won't appear until 2012 or 2013

With the Paris Motor Show just around the corner, new details are starting to emerge about the 2011 Volkswagen Passat.

Unfortunately, it's not good news. It appears the 2011 Passat will get a facelift and not a full redesign. This means the Passat will continue to ride on the B6 (aka the PQ46) platform, instead of the B7 platform as previously expected.

Regardless, as these new spy photos show, the updated Passat will feature heavily revised styling. Up front, the car will adopt a four-bar grille, more conventional headlights, and a restyled bumper. Out back, we can expect revised taillights, a modified bumper, and a larger Volkswagen logo.

Inside, changes will be limited but there will be an increased focus on "perceived quality." Essentially, the cabin will be outfitted with higher quality materials, a new instrument cluster, and a sportier steering wheel.

In terms of performance, engine options will carry over but there could be some minor modifications for improved fuel efficiency. Additionally, Volkswagen engineers have tweaked the chassis for improved ride and handling.

As for the next-gen model, look for an unveiling in 2012 or 2013.

Source: autocar.co.uk

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 eas722 eas722
VW is even more boring when they're cutting off the budgets. %75 of a Phaeton is to come.
June 11, 2010 1:35 pm
 mongo mongo
They did the same with the last Golf. Instead of redesign they did major facelift.
June 12, 2010 9:25 am
 PeterPL PeterPL
That ain't surpise for me. For the begin they didn't cover side of all test cars. Hope they'll change that chorrible plstic interior, and apply promised better quality materials. However looking at Golf VI we shouldn't expect too much.
June 12, 2010 1:11 pm
 greg greg
What do you mean?The Golf V 1/2---mean the Golf VI has one of the bests interiors of its category, only the A3 is doing better.
June 14, 2010 3:28 am
 PeterPL PeterPL
Maybe You're right. I had no opportunity to drive G VI, but I remeber my pal's V. Interior was very very plastic (Comfortline) and grey. Also very often I drive my father's Passat (present model) and I have to admit I'm also disappointed, especially looking at door finishing. Anyway I have to remember that those are common cars, and VW was always famous of it's raw but ergonomic interiors.
June 14, 2010 3:05 pm
 greg greg
True, the V was not so good, but the VI is a real improvement, I was really surprised myself. But the ergonomy was alway good, even if the plastics were cheapier.
June 15, 2010 5:23 am
 wmgtxi wmgtxi
its stupid how they use the same platform over and over these days............(facepalm)
June 12, 2010 5:46 pm