Not premium? Not very! The new Volkswagen Passat Variant no longer has many competitors.
The new Volkswagen Passat Variant is one of the last survivors in the once so popular D-segment. From now on, it will have to compete against the more premium competitors in this segment, such as the Mercedes-Benz C-class Estate.
A Mercedes-Benz against a Volkswagen, how does that happen?
Because Volkswagen is one of the last survivors in the segment of normal D-segment cars with the Passat Variant. The Mondeo, Insignia and Talisman, to name a few competitors, have all been retired because everyone and their mother has to drive an SUV. The Volkswagen Passat has also not been left unscathed, because the sedan is not coming to our country. Meanwhile, premium brands such as BMW and Mercedes are doing well. And since the C-class Estate, like the Passat, is available with a mild hybrid 1.5 turbo engine, this is the most logical comparison.
Is the Volkswagen Passat just as premium as the Mercedes C-class?
No, you do notice that Mercedes really does have an advantage in the field of design and use of materials. The digital part is also a bit nicer. On the other hand, the Passat scores better ergonomically and the Volkswagen is a lot more spacious. You are much better served with the Volkswagen, both on the back seat and in the luggage compartment.
What about the engines?
As mentioned, they are both 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbo engines with mild hybrid support. The Volkswagen produces 150 hp and 250 Nm, the Mercedes delivers the same maximum torque of 250 Nm, but maintains it a little longer, leaving 170 hp at your disposal at the top. In addition, the Mercedes has a nine-speed fully automatic transmission, while the Passat has a dual-clutch automatic transmission and seven gears. The box can disengage when coasting so that you can sail, although you will have to wait a while until you really make progress when you accelerate. Mercedes also offers such a function, but only if you put it in Eco, so those who do not appreciate it can get rid of it more easily. The Benz’s engine does sound a bit rough.
Is there any difference in chassis?
Certainly, Mercedes scores points in this area. The C-class is extremely comfortable, but also very well balanced, thanks to the rear-wheel drive. It really doesn’t invite you to do it, but if you want to go around a corner quickly, the grip reserve turns out to be much deeper than you would expect. With the Passat you quickly encounter understeer and the simpler chassis also feels less comfortable. We would like to point out that our test Passat does not have the latest generation of adaptive dampers. We know from previous encounters that they can make a difference.
Which one should you have?
If you really care about the premium, then the Mercedes still has the edge. But the Passat is more spacious, more economical and also cheaper. The Passat also feels no less mechanically.