Would you trade some practicality and cargo capacity for a more aerodynamic stance?
September 24, 2023 at 05:47
This story features renderings that are not affiliated with or approved by Volkswagen.
Volkswagen made the decision to discontinue the sedan bodystyle from the Passat B9 generation which is exclusively available as a Variant (estate). However, rendering expert Theottle digitally applied a sedan silhouette to the new design, using elements from other VW products.
The result is surprisingly realistic, with changes limited to the rear section of the roof and the sleeker tail. In order to achieve that VW-ness, Theottle borrowed the rear end from another MQB-based model – the Chinese-spec VW Lamando L.
advertisement scroll to continue
While the darkened full-width taillight cluster of the latter would be a good match for the Passat, he tweaked the graphics in order to match those of the Variant. Finally, in order to deviate from the Lamando L’s liftback nature, he toned down the integrated spoiler giving it a more traditional look.
More: 2024 VW Passat Variant Debuts With Sleeker Styling, More Room, And Electrified Powertrains
The fictional Passat B9 sedan shares the 2,841 mm (111.9 inches) wheelbase of the Variant, as is the case with similar conversions. The only drawback for the more aerodynamic stance would be a smaller boot, with a capacity below the 690 liters (24.4 cu-ft) of the Variant.
If such a vehicle ever existed, it would share the underpinnings and powertrain variants with its more practical sibling. Among the petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options, the most technologically advanced is the latter. It comprises a turbocharged 1.5-liter TSI, a single electric motor, and an enlarged 19.7 kWh battery pack, producing up to 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) with a zero-emission range of around 100 km (62 miles).
While traditional sedan lovers will probably miss the VW Passat, they will soon get access to an attractive and mechanically related alternative in the face of the Skoda Superb. The Czech brand will roll out three-box Hatchback and Combi versions of its new flagship which will closely mirror the specifications of the VW Passat Variant.
Rendering by Theottle, Photos by VW