GO
GoAutoLogo
MENU

Make / Model Search

Volkswagen - Passat - GTE

Volkswagen Passat

Make: Volkswagen

Model: Passat

Released: Jan 1970

Discontinued: Feb 1997

Volkswagen logo1 Aug 1995

By CHRIS HARRIS

VW reintroduced the front-wheel drive Passat range in Australia in August 1995.

But rather than wait for the coming B5 model that transformed the look of mid-sized sedans for years to come, the importers brought the frumpy old B4 model – it was based on a 1988 design – and then proceeded to price it out of the market.

Two plain GL models arrived – an 85kW/166Nm 2.0-litre SOHC 8V four-cylinder unit found in the Golf III, or a 128kW/235Nm 2.8-litre SOHC 12V V6 known to VW fans as the VR6 motor.

Both powerplants were mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox.

But despite a long equipment list – dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes, cruise control, power windows and central locking – the B4 Passat four-door sedan slipped under most buyers’ radar, and off the new-price list, by early 1997.

Latest reviews

Motor industry news

GoAutoNews is Australia’s number one automotive industry journal covering the latest news, future and new model releases, market trends, industry personnel movements, and international events.

Catch up on all of the latest industry news with this week's edition of GoAutoNews
Click here