2017 Volkswagen Passat
The 2017 Passat features MIB II, the latest generation of Volkswagen infotainment systems. With touchscreens as standard equipment on all models, MIB II is available with either a 5- or 6.33-inch display across three trim head units (Composition Color, Composition Media, and Discover Media), all offering an impressive range of features. On most models, the display utilizes a capacitive touch sensor (similar to smartphone and tablet technology) that enables gesture controls like swiping and pinch-zooming, as opposed to resistive touchscreens that require pressure and have slightly longer response times. MIB II also features a proximity sensor, which can detect when a hand is nearby and automatically switches its display to allow easier selection of specific features. USB and Bluetooth® connectivity for compatible devices are standard on all 2017 Passat models. Two phones can connect at the same time and occupants are able to make and receive calls on each.
The MIB II system also serves as the foundation for Volkswagen’s available Car-Net®, one of the most comprehensive suites of connected vehicle services and features available in the automotive industry. Car-Net features include App-Connect technology which allows integration with three major smartphone platforms-Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™ and MirrorLink®-allowing integration for compatible smartphones.
With Car-Net Security & Service features, available on the SE models and above, you can use your laptop or compatible smartphone to locate your parked car, access a vehicle health report, make service appointments, load destination information before leaving the house (or get information while on the go), and much more. Security & Service also has Family Guardian capabilities: owners can set boundary or speed alerts for their Volkswagen models, and receive a text or email message if their set speed limit or approved area is exceeded. Automatic crash notification, manual emergency calling, and Roadside Assistance features are also included. Remote door locks are also accessible through the Car-Net Security & Service mobile app.
On SE w/Technology models and above, Car-Net Guide & Inform features include a 4-year trial of traffic updates with SiriusXM Traffic. A three-month trial of SiriusXM Travel Link, which provides weather, sports, news, ski resort and movie information, and gas prices, is available as well. The built-in navigation system that is fitted to this trim can learn your most frequent destinations so you can quickly choose a location rather than enter the same details over and over. The destination interface can predict and auto-complete search requests as you enter a location.
Powertrains
The 2017 Passat lineup features two engine options: the 1.8-liter TSI® turbocharged four-cylinder or a powerful 3.6-liter VR6®.
The four-cylinder Gen 3 EA888 turbocharged and direct-injection engine is made in Silao, Mexico. This 1.8-liter engine produces 170 horsepower at 4,800 rpm and 184 pound-feet of torque from 1,500 rpm on regular gasoline. The EPA estimated fuel economy is 23 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. Passat models equipped with the 1.8-liter engine are offered with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The 3.6-liter VR6 makes the 2017 Passat a true sport sedan. Producing an impressive 280 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm with premium fuel, it offers power and luxury-class driving comfort with surprising fuel economy-EPA estimated highway mileage is 28 mpg. The VR6 is capable of running on regular gasoline. Shifting on the Passat VR6 is handled by a standard 6-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission, which features steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters on the SEL Premium.
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