Those looking for a 2019 Passat will have limited options, as Volkswagen reportedly trims the lineup to just two models.
The Car Connection reported that Volkswagen USA is planning to pare the 2019 Passat lineup by two-thirds. In addition to fewer trim levels, the midsize sedan will also only have one engine: a 174 horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4. That means the 2019 Passat will not have a V6 option moving forward. That four-cylinder engine remains yoked to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Since Volkswagen plans to drop most trim levels from the 2019 Passat, it’s also speccing up the two that are left. According to the report, Volkswagen will include 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless ignition, leatherette seats and automatic emergency braking in the Wolfsburg edition. Blind spot monitoring also comes standard, while 18-inch wheels and a moonroof are options.
The SE R-Line, in addition to the Wolfsburg Edition goodies, gets LED headlights and taillights, adaptive cruise control, active lane control, parking sensors and a Fender audio system.
It’s not really surprising for Volkswagen to make this move, in light of recent sedan sales figures. This year alone, Passat sales have slipped 34 percent. Meanwhile, folks are switching to crossovers, buying the much more popular Tiguan instead. While Volkswagen will introduce a 2019 Passat to the U.S. market, we don’t know what it will cost just yet. We’ll provide more information as Volkswagen announces an on-sale date for the 2019 Passat. Stay tuned to TFLcar for more updates!
