Back by popular demand, Volkswagen has launched the 2016 Passat Alltrack in Australia, based on the recently-introduced eighth-gen Passat.
As the name suggests, the Alltrack is a sporty all-terrain version of the Passat wagon. It stands higher off the ground, offering 27.5mm of added ground clearance. It also gets rugged-look plastic mouldings around the wheel arches, and lower body protection and new bumper bars.
Just one trim line is being offered in Australia. It comes with a 2.0-litre TDI turbo-diesel producing 140kW and 400Nm, up from 125kW and 350Nm of the predecessor. On the combined cycle it consumes just 5.4L/100km. The efficiency is thanks to BlueMotion Technology, which includes stop-start, brake energy recuperation, and a coasting function.
Behind the engine is a six-speed dual-clutch DSG auto with 4MOTION all-wheel drive, sending power through a locking front differential. The on-board computer offers the driver Eco, Sport, and Off-road driving modes. Flat out, acceleration from 0-100km/h comes up in 8.0 seconds.
Standard features include 18-inch “Kalamata” alloy wheels, a Vienna leather upholstery, and Volkswagen’s latest 8.0-inch infotainment high-def touch-screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems, sat-nav, and a rear-view camera.
In the back is 639 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1769 litres. The cargo area also has a 12-volt socket, a luggage net, and shopping bag hooks for added practicality.
