Volkswagen Passat 2012 U.S. version debuts at Qatar Motor Show

The all-new 2012 Volkswagen Passat sedan has finally debuted in the GCC, at the 2012 Qatar Motor Show. Unveiled alongside the facelifted VW “Passat” CC from Germany, the actual Passat for this region will now be the U.S. version, which is built in the state of Tennessee and is a bit larger than the European version.

The Passat follows the path taken by the Jetta, pitched as German-technology built outside Europe to save on costs while offering more than before. The good news is VW passes these cost-savings down to the consumer, who get much more space and adequate tech for a lower price than before. We hear interior material quality may have gone down, but we doubt most consumers care. But with this move, VW clearly positions the CC as the premium choice now, more so than before, with far more gadgetry and power on offer under that sleek exterior.

The only engine on offer in the GCC-spec Passat for now is the corporate 170 hp 2.5-litre 5-cylinder motor, mated to a 6-speed automatic and front-wheel-drive. Even the base version includes a CD stereo with Bluetooth phone, a 6.5-inch TFT touchscreen, power windows, cruise control, 16-inch alloy wheels and class-leading safety features, such as six standard airbags and ABS with brake-assist.

Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but we estimate around Dhs 90,000 for the base model, if not lower. That would make it very competitive against the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord in the UAE.

Keep track of updates as they happen in the VW Passat buyer guide.