2018-2022 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L

Overview

The 2018-2022 Volkswagen Passat represents the final chapter of the NMS (New Midsize Sedan) generation specifically engineered for the North American market. Developed to offer a more spacious cabin and a lower price point than its European counterpart, this iteration of the Passat prioritized rear-seat legroom and trunk capacity to compete directly with domestic and Japanese midsize sedans. Built at the Volkswagen Chattanooga Assembly Plant in Tennessee, the vehicle utilized the PQ46 platform, which provided a stable, composed ride quality characteristic of German engineering, albeit with a focus on comfort rather than sport-oriented handling.

Throughout its final production years, the Passat underwent a significant design update for the 2020 model year, which introduced a more aggressive front fascia, a coupe-like roofline, and an upgraded interior dashboard layout. The powertrain was standardized around the 2.0-liter TSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission. This configuration was chosen for its balance of efficiency and mid-range torque, catering to the needs of suburban commuters and families. By the end of its run in 2022, the Passat was phased out to make room for Volkswagen’s expanding portfolio of electric vehicles and SUVs, marking the end of a decade-long era for the brand’s traditional sedan segment in the United States.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Volkswagen
Model	Passat
Model Year	2018-2022
Generation	NMS (Facelift)
Trim	S, SE, R-Line, SEL, Limited Edition
Body Style	4-Door Sedan
Vehicle Segment	D-Segment
Vehicle Class	Midsize Cars
Market	USA
Platform	Volkswagen Group PQ46
Assembly Plant	Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA
Country of Origin	USA
Production Start	2018
Production End	2022
VIN Identifier	1VW
Base MSRP	$23,995
Destination Charge	$995
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	EA888 Gen 3
Engine Name	2.0L TSI
Engine Code	–
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	2.0 Liters
Bore x Stroke	82.5 mm x 92.8 mm
Compression Ratio	11.7:1
Aspiration	Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery	Direct Injection
Valve Train	DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Block Material	Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	6.0 Quarts
Oil Specification / Viscosity	VW 508 00 / 0W-20
Horsepower	174 hp
Torque	206 lb-ft
Redline	6,000 rpm
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic (S6)
Final Drive Ratio	–
Axle Ratio	–
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	24
EPA Highway MPG	36
EPA Combined MPG	28
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	18.5
Estimated Driving Range	666 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$1,500
CO₂ Emissions	315 g/mi
Greenhouse Gas Score	6
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	2.8 s
0-60 mph	7.8 s
0-100 mph	21.5 s
Quarter Mile	16.0 s
Top Speed	130 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	128 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.82 g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	0.05 hp/lb
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	193.6
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	72.2
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	83.5
Height (in)	58.0
Wheelbase (in)	110.4
Front Track (in)	62.1
Rear Track (in)	62.0
Ground Clearance (in)	5.4
Curb Weight (lbs)	3,285
GVWR (lbs)	4,400
Towing Capacity (lbs)	–
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,150
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	102.0
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	15.9
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
Turning Circle	36.4 ft
Approach Angle	–
Departure Angle	–
Breakover Angle	–
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	4 Stars
IIHS Award	Top Safety Pick
Small Overlap Front	Good
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	Acceptable
Front Crash Prevention	Superior
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	6.3-inch / 8.0-inch Touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog with MFD
Apple CarPlay	Standard
Android Auto	Standard
Navigation System	Available
Audio System	Fender Premium Audio
Speaker Count	9
Wireless Charging	Available
Wi-Fi Hotspot	Available
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	7 years / 100,000 miles
Roadside Assistance	3 years / 36,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	2 years / 20,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Silao, Mexico
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	–
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	8.5 Quarts
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	165
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2018-2022 Volkswagen Passat is widely regarded in the used market as a pragmatic choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, highway-oriented sedan with a premium interior feel compared to its peers. Reliability is generally solid, particularly with the EA888 engine, though owners should remain diligent regarding the recommended maintenance schedule, specifically the transmission fluid changes and the timing chain tensioner inspections on higher-mileage units. Common points of concern include minor electrical gremlins within the infotainment system and the occasional failure of the sunroof drain tubes, which can lead to cabin water intrusion if not cleared periodically. Despite these minor issues, the Passat remains a strong value proposition for those prioritizing ride comfort, substantial rear-seat legroom, and a large trunk, offering a more refined driving experience than many of its competitors from the same era.