The Volkswagen Passat is a family car produced by German automaker Volkswagen since 1973. It has undergone eight generations of development and has become one of the best-selling European cars in history.
First Generation (B1, 1973-1980)
The original Passat was introduced in 1973 as a replacement for the Volkswagen Type 3. It was available as a sedan or estate and featured a 1.5-liter inline-four engine producing 50 horsepower. The B1 generation had a simple design with a small front grille and minimal features.
Second Generation (B2, 1980-1988)
The B2 Passat was launched in 1980 and offered more comfort and refinement than its predecessor. It came with a range of engines, including the popular 1.6-liter inline-four that produced 71 horsepower. The B2 also introduced a new interior design and improved safety features.
Third Generation (B3, 1988-1993)
The third-generation Passat was available from 1988 to 1993 and featured a sleeker exterior design with a larger front grille. The B3 had a range of engine options, including the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four that produced 136 horsepower.
Fourth Generation (B4, 1993-1996)
The B4 Passat was introduced in 1993 and continued to refine the design with a more angular front grille. The range of engines expanded to include a 1.8-liter inline-four producing 90 horsepower and a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four that produced 115 horsepower.
Fifth Generation (B5, 1996-2004)
The B5 Passat was launched in 1996 and marked a significant departure from the previous generations with its more modern design language. The range of engines expanded to include a 1.9-liter TDI inline-four producing 90 horsepower and a 3.2-liter V6 producing 193 horsepower.
Sixth Generation (B6, 2004-2008)
The B6 Passat was introduced in 2004 and featured an updated design with a more angular front grille. The range of engines expanded to include a 1.9-liter TDI inline-four producing 100 horsepower and a 3.2-liter V6 producing 247 horsepower.
Seventh Generation (B7, 2008-2015)
The B7 Passat was launched in 2008 and featured a more dramatic design with a new front grille and angular lines. The range of engines expanded to include a 1.4-liter TSI inline-four producing 122 horsepower and a 3.6-liter V6 producing 295 horsepower.
Eighth Generation (B8, 2015-present)
The B8 Passat was introduced in 2015 and features an updated design with a more angular front grille. The range of engines includes a 1.4-liter TSI inline-four producing 125 horsepower and a 3.6-liter V6 producing 280 horsepower.
Throughout its history, the Volkswagen Passat has been praised for its refinement, comfort, and value. It remains one of the best-selling European cars in history and is widely regarded as a benchmark for family saloon cars.
