All-New 2012 Volkswagen Passat Starts at Less Than $20,000

HERNDON, Va., May 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced pricing for the all-new 2012 Passat, a vehicle that brings new standards to the highly competitive midsize segment, with a starting MSRP of $19,995. The 2012 Passat offers exceptional features and premium options in three powertrains and a variety of equipment levels, with equally impressive pricing.

"The 2012 Passat is a true Volkswagen, offering German engineering, class-leading standard features, and superior fuel economy, all for a remarkable value," said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. "Demonstrating our commitment to the American market, the car will be produced at one of the newest, most advanced, and environmentally responsible auto assembly plants in the world in Chattanooga, Tennessee."

The 2.5L model with manual transmission and 170 horsepower has a starting MSRP of $19,995. The 2.5L model, available in eight equipment levels, comes standard with automatic dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel audio controls and Volkswagen's no-charge three-year/36,000 mile scheduled Carefree Maintenance Program. The up-level SE model starts at $23,725 and includes additional equipment such as 17-inch alloy wheels, 8-way power driver seat, heated front seats, touchscreen Premium VIII radio, and a multi-Function leather-wrapped steering wheel (see 2012 Passat pricing chart for further details and additional model information).

The 2.0L TDI® Clean Diesel model offers three trim levels and starts at $25,995. The Passat TDI – the only clean diesel option in the midsize segment – is expected to deliver 43 mpg highway, with a range of nearly 800 miles. The TDI base trim package, the SE, comes standard with features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, Volkswagen's touchscreen Premium VIII radio and a six-speed manual transmission. Volkswagen's automatic DSG® transmission is optional. This direct-shift gearbox is a technologically advanced six-speed transmission that incorporates an automatic dual-clutch system that instantly engages and disengages gears without the need for a clutch pedal.

The powerful 3.6L VR6® is offered in three trim levels and has a starting MSRP of $28,995. The VR6 model comes standard with a six-speed automatic DSG transmission and offers a highly competitive 280 horsepower. Additional standard premium features in the VR6® model include 18-inch alloy wheels, comfort sport seats, a sunroof, and a class exclusive Fender® Premium Audio System.

The new Passat, designed specifically for the North American market, provides premium features uniquely offered in the U.S., yet maintains the dynamic character that is expected of a Volkswagen. For instance, the new Passat sets new standards for comfort, with best-in-class rear-seat legroom. The all-new midsize sedan is 191.7 inches long and has a 110.4 inch wheelbase.

Premium options include leather seating surfaces, leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel, wood decor, ambiance lighting, memory driver's seat, power passenger seat, a choice of Volkswagen's RNS 315 or RNS 510 navigation systems, front fog lights with static cornering lights, and keyless access with push button start.

The Passat will also offer the new Fender Premium Audio System, designed exclusively for Volkswagen. In a partnership that combines quality automotive engineering and quality sound engineering, Volkswagen and Fender have teamed up to bring the raw emotion of live music to the driving experience.

Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. VWoA sells the Beetle, Eos, Golf, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Passat, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2011 Volkswagen vehicles come standard-equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC). This is important because the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com or www.media.vw.com to learn more.

SOURCE Volkswagen of America, Inc.