Volkswagen has not given up on becoming the biggest automotive group in the world. They will invest €84 billion in the coming four years and over two thirds will go towards efficient new models.
Right now, the most important Volkswagen being tested is the next generation Passat to be launched into the highly competitive global mid-size sedan market. The next generation model will be the B8 and will start production in autumn 2015. This means the current model will have to stick around for two more years before switching to the new MQB architecture.
On average, this new platform will result in overall weight saving anywhere between 80 and 100 kg over the B7.
The engine range will likely still start with the 122 PS 1.4 liter and work up to 1.8-liter TSI units. A twin-turbo 2-liter TDI will be launched, producing up to 230 PS and siting atop more normal 2.0 TDIs with 150 and 184 PS. A plug-in hybrid is also going to be launched. For the US, we think Volkswagen will prepare a turbo replacement for the aging 3.6-liter V6.
On average, this new platform will result in overall weight saving anywhere between 80 and 100 kg over the B7.
The engine range will likely still start with the 122 PS 1.4 liter and work up to 1.8-liter TSI units. A twin-turbo 2-liter TDI will be launched, producing up to 230 PS and siting atop more normal 2.0 TDIs with 150 and 184 PS. A plug-in hybrid is also going to be launched. For the US, we think Volkswagen will prepare a turbo replacement for the aging 3.6-liter V6.