Volkswagen's 2020 Passat uses the best of the previous model and amplifies it hoping to lure new buyers.

Volkswagen is looking to build a better mousetrap with the 2020 Passat sedan on display in Detroit today, by taking the tenets of the previous model – introduced eight years ago amazingly – that attracted buyers and improving them.

According to VW, the new Passat offers more of what matters: bolder design, upgraded technology, and enhanced access to convenience and driver-assistance features.

“Passat is the only midsize sedan to offer German driving dynamics at an affordable price and has long resonated with buyers for its combination of comfort, reliability and driving dynamics,” said Scott Keogh, CEO of the North American Region, Volkswagen. 

“With this new model, we’ve stepped up the style factor and upgraded the technology to make it even more attractive. In addition, we’ve made desirable convenience and driver-assistance features more accessible.”

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While the 2020 Passat retains the underpinnings of the previous model, it has been completely restyled. A dynamic coupe-like roofline, a dramatic low-slung midline, and a new grille that simply cannot be ignored give the Passat a bold new look—at once, elegant and sporty.

The new Passat retains its contemporary styling and its ability to transport five passengers.

In short, it’s what the automaker was shooting for: styling similar to the previous-gen Passat, but amped up. The new model features standard slim LED headlights and taillights, along with more prominent Passat badging that runs the width of the trunklid, give the car a more premium look. Standard 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels enhance the sophisticated design, and 18- and 19-inch wheels are available.

The premium look carries over to the interior as the automaker looked meld advanced technology with sophisticated design. Of course, it need to be done while offering a large cabin with room for five adults comfortably.

The cockpit features a horizontal design, incorporating air vents that flow across the dash in a style reminiscent of premium models. A new, more contemporary instrument panel has been fitted, along with a new glass-covered infotainment touchscreen.

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Complementing the new interior design are new colors and premium materials. Three interior décor designs are available, based on trim. Volkswagen’s V-Tex leatherette and Nappa leather seating surfaces are available in addition to the standard cloth seats, and offer four color options.

The interior of the Passat is laden with the latest infotainment technologies.

Infotainment technology gets a boost in the 2020 Passat. In addition to a new glass-covered touchscreen, MIB II Composition Media infotainment with SiriusXM radio comes standard (three-month trial subscription included) and Discover Media with navigation is available.

Every Passat comes with standard Volkswagen Car-Net App- Connect technology, which integrates compatible smartphones with the three major platforms—Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and MirrorLink—making select apps accessible from the infotainment screen. For audiophiles, top-of-the-line models feature the Fender® Premium Audio system.

Technology upgrades don’t stop in the cabin—the new Passat offers a comprehensive suite of standard and available driver-assistance technology. Every Passat includes standard Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist), now with Pedestrian Monitoring, as well as Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Traffic Alert. Available driver-assistance features include: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC); Lane Keeping Assist (Lane Assist); and Parking Steering Assistant (Park Assist).

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The new Passat continues to be powered by Volkswagen’s 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI engine, making 174 horsepower. The power is taken to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic. The 2020 Volkswagen Passat will be available in four regular trim levels and a launch-only Limited model. It is expected to begin arriving at U.S. Volkswagen dealers in the Summer of 2019.