VW Adds Cheaper and Pricier Passat

Volkswagen AG is doubling the number of trim lines of its Passat small car in the U.S., with a cheaper base model and a pricier top-end variant.

The 2020 Passat starts at $23,900, which is nearly $2,300 less than its 2019 counterpart. But the new Passat S doesn’t include heated seats, keyless entry, faux-leather upholstery or a push-button starter, all of which were standard on the 2019 car.

Buyers now must upgrade to the SE trim level to get those features. The 2020 Passat SE starts at about $26,800, nearly $600 more than a similarly equipped 2019 model.

The new top-end Passat SEL starts at $32,000, up $1,100 over its 2019 counterpart. Additional goodies include leather seats, built-in navigation and a Fender premium audio system. The second-tier Passat R stickers for $29,600.

Styling changes for the 2020 car are minimal, including a freshened front end with standard LED lighting across all four trim levels. The car also gets an updated interior and standard forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring.

The powertrain remains a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission. A V-6 option could be added next year, according to media reports.

Sales of the 2020 models are due to start next month.