Rumor: Next-gen VW Passat goes wagon-only

Volkswagen will be keeping the Passat around for a while longer, but not without major modifications to its body style, dimensions and engine palette.

Unconfirmed sources are reporting that the ninth generation will not be available in the sedan form, which leaves the estate/wagon as the only option. Rumor has it that the company might make it look more like a hatchback.

The newcomer will be marketed as serviceable alternative to the Arteon. To that end, it will become longer with 2.85 meters of wheelbase as opposed to 2.78 meters in the current B8 generation. This should translate into more legroom for the rear passengers and a more spacious trunk.

The 2.0-liter turbo diesel available in 150 and 200 PS (148 – 197 hp; 110 – 147 kW, respectively) should remain the main engine option. All gasoline powertrains will allegedly be electrified and hit the wheels with 200 and 250 PS (197 – 247 hp; 147 – 184 kW). The latter version should receive a large next-gen battery rated at 100 km (62 miles) of all-electric range.

According to the reports, the new Passat will not go full-electric, reserving this niche for the VW ID range.

The production should start in Bratislava, Slovakia in a few years’ time.