Volkswagen means people’s car. It also became a people’s car already with the ‘bubble’ or ‘bagginess’, and the launch of the VW Golf continued its popularity worldwide. But what about the VW Passat? That model has perhaps been a little overshadowed by the Golf, but has been just as important and has contributed greatly to VW continuing to be just a “people’s car”. Let’s take a look at the VW Passat and its history.

Early history of the VW Passat

The VW Passat arrived in 1973 and its development can be divided into many ‘generations’. The key to its popularity can probably be traced back to its beginnings. The Golf came along at the same time and was perhaps the model that continued to be number 1 among the “people’s cars”. It was time to make smaller and more fuel-efficient cars in the seventies with its oil crisis and other factors, but most people really need a slightly larger car. “If only the Golf was a bit bigger and could fit me and my family!”.

The car brand was well aware of the needs and one can easily say that the VW Passat is like a bigger Golf. Not least in the earlier models of the Passat, one could recognize technology, components and even appearance from the Golf. So the Passat could offer a similar technology, feel and fuel economy to the Golf, yet was more comfortable for a family with several children and could also take in a dog and luggage.

These cars were easy to repair and service too. If you have a Passat from the early years, you can easily check it before a long trip. Check the oil and other fluids, tires and windscreen wipers. For safety, also check the clutch with a car clutch test.

We’re now going to look at some achievements that came with the later generations. Because as with so many other historic car models – they change over the years. However, the Passat has always remained a people’s car and a practical and reliable family car.

 

Technical developments and achievements of the VW Passat

With the B2 generation, the Passat got quite a bit bigger. So if the Passat wasn’t already a favorite among families and those who need to load in a little more, it would be now. So the gap between the Golf and Passat was now widening and the Passat was able to strengthen its position as a favorite among economical family cars.

By 1984, a new achievement arrived, namely four-wheel drive. With Audi Quattro in the “family”, it was not a long step to transfer the technology to VW as well. In 2006, the B6 generation of the Passat arrived, offering a new, more modern design.

Since then, the VW Passat has continued to be, in the opinion of many, a stylish and exciting car while always preserving its fine qualities as a people’s car.

 

VW Passat among the competition

In 2023, the latest generation of the VW Passat arrived. It will now compete with SUVs and electric cars, but it will probably do that just fine.

It also features all the latest car technology, such as advanced safety systems, infotainment and adaptive headlights.

This article has been full of praise for the VW Passat. Wondering what faults it usually has? Find out more on the autodoc.se website.