2016 VW Passat (B8) spied testing in India for the first time

Reported to launch in Q2 2017.

The 2016 VW Passat was spied testing on Indian roads for the first time, courtesy of Auto Column. The Passat is expected to make a return to the Indian market in Q2 2017.

According to the photographer, the Passat spotted had a 2.0 TDI badge on its bootlid, suggesting that a conventional diesel variant will also be launched alongside the petrol-electric hybrid 'GTE' variant. The Passat GTE combines a 1.4-liter TSI petrol engine that produces 154 bhp and an electric motor producing 115 bhp and 400 Nm of peak torque. The combined output of 218 bhp is transferred through a six-speed DSG.

The Passat will be one of the first Volkswagens (VW-badged) in India to ride on the MQB platform, which has made it 85 kg lighter than its predecessor, thanks to the high-strength and hot-formed steel and aluminium in the construction. It made its Indian debut at the Auto Expo 2016 in its GTE variant, and is distinguished from the regular Passat by blue accents on the grille, revised front bumper featuring C-shaped LED lights and different alloy wheels.

Also Read: VW Vento with LED headlights, black alloys spied on test

At launch, the VW Passat will compete against the Toyota Camry, Skoda Superb and the upcoming Honda Accord in India.

[Source - AutoColumn]