2020 Volkswagen Passat vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat

In 2020, the Volkswagen Passat underwent a significant facelift, setting a precedent that continued into 2021. The styling for the 2020 model echoed the VW Jetta, with minor adaptations to fit the old Passat frame. This recreated a familiar yet modernized aesthetic that favored simplicity and cost-efficiency over pioneering design. The interior reflected this too, holding onto traditional traits like the smaller, 6.3-inch touchscreen and simplistic dashboard layout using materials that prioritized ease of cleaning and maintenance over luxury. Moving to 2021, the Passat retained most of the exterior enhancements from 2020, aligning closely with its smaller counterpart, the Jetta, in terms of design. However, few dimensional changes equipped the 2021 model with a sleeker, albeit conservative, profile purportedly optimized for aerodynamics. In contrast to the exterior, the interior in 2021 favored functionality over flair. The layout was straightforward with well-placed analog controls, suggesting a design philosophy that valued traditional usability over the integration of cutting-edge technology.

The engine configuration remained consistent between the 2020 and 2021 models. Both sported a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine harnessing 174 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque, mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This setup indicated VW's preference for a balanced powertrain that offered adequate, if unexciting, performance, emphasizing fuel efficiency and reliability over high performance. In the 2020 Passat, the performance was marked by simplicity and adequacy, even if it rarely excelled. Sport mode provided a noticeable enhancement in drivability, preventing the engine from feeling underwhelming despite its limited power output. The 2021 model mirrored these characteristics almost identically but continued to lag behind competitors who offered more dynamic and diverse powertrain selections.

Despite a decade-old platform, the 2020 Passat boasted an immensely spacious interior, especially highlighting its roomy rear seating and large trunk capacity at 15.9 cubic feet. Ample visibility, comfortable seating, and practical design choices made the sedan a compelling choice for those valuing space and comfort. In contrast, the 2021 model, while matching the cargo capacity, was noted for a disparity in comfort, particularly with the front seating which was compromised in terms of legroom and ergonomic design. The cabin layout was efficient, with straightforward controls, but the overall space utility felt slightly compromised compared to the 2020 model.

Technology in both the 2020 and 2021 Passats leant towards the basic side. The 2020 model's infotainment system was capped at a 6.3-inch display, lacking the newer VW technologies but providing sufficient connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Fender audio system on higher trims elevated the auditory experience significantly. The 2021 Passat maintained the same screen size and general capabilities, adding very minimal enhancements like added rear USB ports in the SE models. Both models lacked the advanced digital interfaces found in competitors, emphasizing straightforward user experience.

Both model years included commendable safety features as standard, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2020 model achieved top scores from the IIHS and included additional features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist on the SE and SEL trims. The 2021 Passat similarly performed well in safety assessments, retaining the strong suite of safety features while making adaptive cruise control standard across all trims.