Breaking news, new NMS will still be 2012 VW Passat, TDI specs

[chittychittybangbang]

I got this press email for release tomorrow - the NMS will still be called the Passat even though it's a different car than the European Passat. Why tomorrow? The new 2012 NMS is supposed to be relevealed tomorrow at the Detroit auto show.

EDIT: here is a direct link to the buying guide summary: http://www.myturbodiesel.com/1000q/b...ying-guide.htm

Here is the release:

Wolfsburg / Herndon / Detroit — Volkswagen of America, Inc., today announced the world debut of the all-new Passat, a transformational car in Volkswagen’s ambitious growth plan for the U.S. market.

Designed in Germany and made in America, the Passat was developed as a larger vehicle with premium features and handling characteristics that will perfectly match it with the tastes and lifestyles of Americans. It will be built in Chattanooga, Tenn., at the world’s newest, most advanced and environmentally responsible auto assembly plant.

The new Passat, the largest ever, is the only midsize sedan that offers superior German engineering at an accessible price. The Passat TDI — the only clean diesel option in the segment — is expected to deliver 43 miles per gallon on the highway, with a range of approximately 800 miles. Final pricing will be announced in the spring, but the Passat will start at around $20,000 when it arrives in dealer showrooms later this year. It will come with premium standard features that include automatic climate control and Bluetooth connectivity.

The new Passat offers best-in-class legroom, Volkswagen’s Care Free Maintenance program (3 years/36,000 miles) and the safety of Volkswagen’s Intelligent Crash Response System. Volkswagen’s new Chattanooga plant that will produce the Passat is part of a $4 billion investment by the company in the U.S. market. The environmentally friendly facility includes a revolutionary paint shop that significantly reduces emissions. A state-of-the art $40 million employee training center ensures adherence to Volkswagen’s exacting quality standards. The Passat will set new benchmarks for safety, driving performance and environmental responsibility in the midsize segment.

Engine and Transmission

The all-new Passat offers three drivetrain options: a responsive 2.5L gasoline engine, a remarkably eco-friendly 2.0L TDI Clean Diesel and a powerful 3.6L VR6. The 2.5L five cylinder engine (170 hp/177 lb.-ft.), which is being offered in the Passat for the first time, will be mated to a standard 5 speed manual transmission. As an alternative, the 2.5 multi port injection engine may be paired with a 6-speed automatic. The quiet, four cylinder 2.0L TDI Clean Diesel (140 hp/236 lb.-ft.) has the power of a six cylinder gasoline engine and the fuel economy of a hybrid. The Passat TDI is expected to deliver 43 miles per gallon on the highway, with a range of approximately 800 miles. Volkswagen’s TDI clean diesel engines, which come with a NOx storage catalytic converter, are among the cleanest engines in the world, fulfilling emissions requirements in all 50 states. Optional on the Passat TDI will be Volkswagen’s legendary 6-speed DSG transmission.

The 3.6 liter VR6 (280 hp/258 lb.-ft.) makes the new Passat a top-flight sport sedan. It offers power and luxury-class driving comfort, with European-type restraint in its fuel consumption — estimated at 28 mpg on the highway.

Gear shifting on the new Passat VR6 is handled by a standard 6-speed DSG; the dual-clutch transmission is considered the most efficient automatic in the world. This technologically advanced six-speed transmission incorporates an automatic dual-clutch system that instantly engages and disengages gears without the need for a clutch pedal. With a special computer controlling the process, one clutch is engaged on the next gear while the clutch from the previous gear is released. The results are crisp, quick shifts, without the loss of power that is experienced with a traditional manual gearbox.

Premium Features
The Passat will be offered in three trim levels, S SE and SEL, with a total of 16 equipment levels. All will offer first-in-class safety and comfort.
The Passat’s safety features include Volkswagen’s advanced Intelligent Crash Response Systems, which initiates automatic safety protections in a collision — the fuel supply and high consumption electronic equipment shuts off; the doors unlock; the battery terminal disconnects from the alternator cable; the hazard lights switch on. The Passat also comes with a tire pressure monitoring system, ESP electronic stabilization program, ABS with braking assistant, Hill Climb Assist (with manual transmission), six airbags and an extremely rigid body structure to protect the driver and passengers.
The Passat sets new standards for comfort, with a significantly larger rear seating area, best-in-class rear seat legroom, well-designed controls and superior touring properties.

Other standard features include automatic climate control, power windows all around, air conditioning, insulating glass, a distinctive analog clock at the center of the instrument panel, cruise control, outside temperature display with frost warning, radio-CD system (MP3-capable, plus external audio input) and Bluetooth connectivity.

Premium options include 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels, power seat adjustment, leather, leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel, a touchscreen satellite radio, a choice of Volkswagen’s RNS 510 or RNS 315 navigation systems, front fog lights with static cornering lights, wood decor, new ambiance lighting, memory driver’s seat, power passenger seat, and keyless access with push button start. The Passat will also offer the new Fender premium audio system, designed exclusively for Volkswagen. In a partnership that combined quality automotive engineering and quality sound engineering, Volkswagen and Fender teamed up to bring the raw emotion of live music to the driving experience.

Exterior

The Passat’s balanced proportions give it a unique, timeless and dominant styling reflecting the "design DNA” developed by Walter de Silva, the Italian design chief for the Volkswagen Group and Klaus Bischoff, the German design leader for the Volkswagen Brand. The signature clean design, with a predominance of horizontal body elements, reinforces the Passat’s position as the sophisticated choice in the midsize segment. The bottom line: this car looks much more expensive than it actually is.

The key identifying feature of a strong brand is the styling of its front end. Here the Passat displays the new horizontal brand face, with the grille and headlights forming a single unit. Unlike models in the compact class, the Passat’s grille is sculpted in a three-dimensional shape. Moreover, the grille stands more upright and makes a more distinctive and elegant impression in its stricter geometry.

From the side profile, the muscular ridge in the sill area creates a lively interplay of light reflections. Powerfully sculpted wheel arches emphasize the dynamic properties of the Passat. In the balance of the side profile, the roof lines flow toward the back with a nearly coupe-like cut of the rear window. Three side windows create luxury class style with a long, extended glass surface.

The rear section is also dominated by horizontal lines. The lines of the large taillights rise toward the sides, underscoring the dynamics of the elegant rear styling. Another unique feature here is the design of the two-part taillights (integrated in the rear fender and trunk lid).

Interior
The Passat shows the look of considerably more expensive cars. The new, larger Passat is 191.7 inches long and has a 110.4 inch wheelbase, which translates into a noticeable increase in rear seating space.

Like the exterior, the interior is also marked by a clean and geometric formal structure. Interior styling consistently follows the maxims of functionality. Controls are attractive and easy to operate.

The instrument panel is similar to that of Volkswagen’s flagship vehicle, the all-new Touareg. Chrome trimmed gauges surround a digital multifunction display. A high-end chrome look is also applied to the air vents in the cockpit, and to the surrounds of the radio, navigation system and the climate control panels. The rotary light switch and parking brake handle button are also treated in chrome. Except for the base version, all other Passat trims have chrome interior accents on the window, mirror adjustment and trunk opening switches.

The upper and lower instrument areas are visually distinguished by various decorative accents, depending on the equipment version. Decorative elements in "Titan” design are used in the S version; the elegant "Titan Silver Printed” decor is used in the SE version, wood décor "Autumn Nut Burl” is featured in the exclusive SEL version. The accents not only upgrade the instruments, but also the center console as well as the door trim panels.

The seats are exceptionally comfortable. Even in the base version, the driver’s seat is adjustable eight ways, including lumbar support.

The new Passat and the all-new Jetta are expected to be the sales leaders in Volkswagen’s plan to significantly increase market share in the United States. The company’s strategy is built on a broad portfolio of products that offers cars accessible to the majority as well as vehicles for car enthusiasts.

[chittychittybangbang]

Unless there's some blogger with press access posting on a Sunday night, consider these WORLD EXCLUSIVE pictures and details on the car. These were just released by VW, literally about 10 minutes ago for distribution tomorrow but I'm giving it to you today.

Below is the release and the thumbnails are the pictures.

January 2011. The Jetta – whose latest version was tailored to the USA more than ever – is the most successful car in America with German technology. Now, that best-seller is being followed by the world premiere of a car in the next class up − another model that Volkswagen has specifically developed for the United States: the entirely new Passat. Larger, more comfortable, more efficient and with higher quality than ever. The car’s technology and styling came from Germany, while Volkswagen of America provided the conceptual direction. The saloon will be built in the new US plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Market launch begins in mid-August.

Even the base version is driven by a powerful 125 kW /170 PS five- cylinder petrol engine (extra urban driving range with automatic transmission: 31 mpg). Other engine options: an extremely economical Clean Diesel (TDI) with 102 kW /140 PS (43 mpg extra urban) and a six-cylinder petrol engine, the VR6 with 206 kW /280 PS, which is paired with a standard dual clutch transmission (DSG). The alliance of VR6 and DSG makes the Passat a top-flight sports saloon (28 mpg extra urban; 0 – 60 mph in 6.5 s).

Features: all key features are standard Although the new Passat offers considerably more space and comfort, Volkswagen was able to reduce the price level by several thousand dollars (!) compared to the previous model. With its entry-level price, the Passat is now in the 20,000 US dollar range (final prices to be announced in March). There is hardly any other saloon of this size (exactly 191.7 inches or 4,868 mm long) that offers such high technology and quality at a comparable price.
Volkswagen of America will offer the Passat in three equipment lines: S, SE and SEL. Even the base version (S) is very well equipped. A tyre Redesigned Passat is built in America; TDI boosts fuel economy to 43 mpg 4.87-metre Passat will launch in mid-August in the 20,000 dollar price range pressure monitoring system, ESP electronic stabilisation programme, ABS with braking assistant, Hill Climb Assist (with manual transmission and DSG), six airbags and an extremely safe body structure combine to form an effective occupant protection system. Other standard features include electric windows all round, air conditioning, insulating glass, a
distinctive analogue clock in the centre of the instrument panel, cruise control, outside temperature display with frost warning, radio-CD system (MP3-capable, plus external audio input) and a Bluetooth hands-free mobile phone system (with voice activation).

Just how ingeniously the Passat was designed is illustrated by two of its features. First: “Valet Parking.” If the car is to be driven by a third party, a press of the Valet Parking button in the glove compartment is all it takes to secure the boot and the compartment itself. Then they can only be opened with the special Valet Parking Key accessible only to the vehicle owner. Second: “Remote Start.” In extreme weather conditions, the driver can start the engine (automatic or DSG trans mission) by remote control (maximum ten minutes running time) to have the climate control system either cool down or heat the car’s interior to a preset temperature before driving off.

Styling: visual dominance of a large saloon It is the balanced proportions of the new Passat that give it its entirely unique, timeless and dominant styling. Just a few precise lines suffice to define its form. These style lines reflect par excellence the Volkswagen’s new “design DNA”: clear, minimal forms and lines with a predominance of horizontal body elements. Visually, this impressive styling launches the Passat up half a class. The bottom line: this car looks much more
expensive than it actually is.

Interior: here too, the Passat has the look of very expensive cars As mentioned, the new Volkswagen has a length of 191.7 inches (4,868 mm). Its wheelbase is 110.4 inches (2,803 mm) and its width is 72.2 inches (1,835 mm). So, its size has increased in all three dimensions compared to the previous model, which already offered a spacious interior. As can be expected, the new car offers even more impressive interior space. The larger wheelbase translates into a noticeable increase in rear seating space; in this aspect, the stately Passat protects its lead over its key Asian competitors. Typical Volkswagen: without exception, the car’s controls are self-explanatory; every driver can intuitively operate the new Passat. Over the past ten years, Volkswagen has defined its own completely new ergonomic standard, a standard that is reflected by the high quality of materials that are used.

Passat in America: potential to be a bestseller The first Passats found their way to America back in 1987. Since then, over 700,000 Passats have been sold between New York and Los Angeles. Plans are in place to produce about one million new generation US Passats over the next seven years. The contrast between these two
figures – 0.7 million Passats in 23 years versus 1.0 million Passats in just seven years now – makes a clear statement about the new Passat’s key role for Volkswagen of America. The company wants to triple the total annual volume of all of its models in the USA to about 800,000 units by 2018. Incidentally, to date over 15 million people have chosen a Passat; so this Volkswagen model series represents one of the very great successes in automotive history.

Hold the mouse over the thumbnails to expand, you don't have to click every one

[chittychittybangbang]

The Passat may still be built on a expanded Jetta chassis but from the pictures I can see some of the additional equipment you can get on the car from the factory vs. the Jetta

Still has the full screen MFD and full MFSW (mutifunction steering wheel) like the Golf and Sportwagen.
Auto headlights, foglights, auto dimming rear view mirror.
Still has option of RNS 510 GPS nav system, you can also equip the RNS 315 if you want.
Dual zone auto climate control.
Premium sound system - only the Golf has the option of Dynaudio, the Passat's premium sound system will be by Fender.

Some other things I was able to see in the pictures: start-stop button. Yes, it still has the ugly ignition switch blank off plate on the steering column that makes it look like there's something missing but the placement of the start-stop button looks OEM and much better than in the Jetta. Sorry Jetta fans, it's a nice feature but it is poorly placed in your cars especially since VW is known for interior design.

There's a cubby to the left of the steering wheel underneath the headlight switch.
There is no fuel door release button or solenoid, it's the push-open type fuel door.
The new 2012 VW Passat uses a manual parking brake lever, not an electronic parking brake.
The press photos show a car with halogen headlamps and foglights.
The press photos show a car with dual exhaust, exhaust pipes are on opposite sides, not grouped together. The engine isn't known so maybe the TDI may have dual exhaust that is grouped pipes.

The press release said the car will have remote start (probably optional or with a package or trim level) that can run up to 10 minutes.
Analog clock in the dash.

Market launch is planned for Mid-August 2011.
The TDI engine is expected to deliver 43 mpg highway. This is even better than the official Jetta/Golf/Sportwagen rating so I'm curious why. It's possible this is another "expected to deliver" but the official EPA rating is.... game.

Here are close up pictures of the previous press photos showing the detail on the headlights and taillights.

[chittychittybangbang]

I have edited the name of the mk6 forum to now include the 2012 VW Passat TDI. This Passat will be the b7. Why not a separate forum? It'll most likely be built off a Jetta chassis (not necessarily the latest mk6 Jetta, maybe still the mk5 Jetta, I don't know yet), but it will use the same engine and systems. The forums are currently organized into generations and the Touareg/Q7 because they each generation is similar with the exception of the Touareg/Q7 which are totally different cars, engines, and systems.

As for the Passat wagon, there most likely will not be a VW Passat TDI wagon for 2012. This normally takes an extra year so expect a 2013 VW Passat wagon TDI with delivery in late 2012.

It looks like Autoblog does work on Sunday nights, I still beat them by over an hour

Here's a video of the 2012 Passat.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JjkVl-HHqr4

[chittychittybangbang]

Made a list of differences between the European and North American spec cars. Differences between 2012 VW Passat for US vs. Europe euro trim car

They look similar but if you need proof that they aren't, the North American car is longer and wider. They aren't even the same size. The interior is basically a totally different car.

As an example, below are pictures comparing the European and NA spec interiors. The NA spec car is the white interior.

Below is another pic showing the differences, details in the other thread.

[green jelly bean]

"20,000 dollar price range ". So is the price going to be $20,000 or $29,995 base price $40k well optioned? This is key.

[ClarkKent]

I have to say I like the rear end and the wheels of the European model a bit more than the US model, but it's still a nice looking car for the money. Oh yeah, and since this is my first post here, I'll make it my official "Hello" to all.

[chittychittybangbang]

Today is the Detroit Auto show so Autoblog has released pics now. Some things I can see off this spec 2012 VW Passat SE TDI:

leatherette seats. I can tell it's leatherette because of the way the surface is perforated. Leather may be optional on SEL.
Power driver's and passenger seat - hooray! I hate manual seats. I can never get comfortable because tilt-height are controlled at the same time by the same lever. It doesn't look like there's memory function though.
The instrument cluster dimmer is a button instead of a dial.
SE does not have keyless access and start KESSY.
SE does have dual zone climatronic climate control.

No 115V outlet in the rear of the center console or air vents.

[chittychittybangbang]

VW put out another release:

I think I may have a clue to why the 2012 VW Passat TDI has 43 mpg highway vs. the slightly lower Jetta-Golf-Sportwagen figures even though it's a bigger car. Urea injection. See this FAQ for more details: http://www.myturbodiesel.com/1000q/v...pf-audi-q7.htm it's for the Touareg-Q7 which up until now, were the only models to use Adblue fluid. Golf-Jetta-Sportwagen owners have complained of an occasional stuttering or hesitation. Many believe it to be related to the complex EGR and emissions system. The heavier Passat will put more load on the engine which requires Adblue fluid to clean the emissions. The bright side is that it eliminates much of the complexity of the non-ADblue system. There is no exhaust backpressure valve and no H2S filter. Instead, it uses an adblue injector with a NOx catalyst. However, the other baddie in performance-mpg, post injection combustion is still present because the VW Passat TDI DPF filter is still there. It's necessary for clean emissions so there's nothing you can do about that.

This note is also important: 2.0L TDI Clean Diesel, 43 mpg highway and 795 miles/tank sdf
Figures are manufacturer estimates.

This is also a nice warranty:
12-year/unlimited mileage limited warranty against corrosion perforation; 5-year/60,000-mile (whichever occurs first) powertrain limited warranty; 3-year/36,000-mile (whichever occurs first) New Vehicle Limited Warranty; 3-year/36,000-mile (whichever occurs first)

We all love the lux interiors, the cool gauges, even the authoritative “thunk” the door makes when you close it . But those aren’t the only reasons you buy a Volkswagen. They’re not even the most important. It’s that German engineering thing that puts a smile on your face every time you slip behind the wheel. The way the suspension handles the road like you’re driving a sporty coupe, all while having your kids safely ensconced in a spacious backseat.

UNDER THE HOOD: Sure, you love the interior materials. And the way the door closes with an authoritative “thunk” when you climb inside. But that’s not why you buy a VW – not really. It’s that German engineering thing that just seems to get you every time you slip behind the wheel. The way the steering wheel feels in your hands as you pilot down the road, the grip of the tires, and the way the suspension makes the car behave like a car ought to behave on a winding road. That’s called engineering – affordable engineering – and it’s what people expect from VW. For the all-new 2012 Passat, that hasn’t changed one bit. Buyers can expect 12.3 inch disc brakes on all four corners, for example, and a multi-link suspension in back. They can also expect to choose between three engine choices and four transmissions: A 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine that makes 170 horsepower and 177 lb-ft. of torque mated to a 6-speed automatic or manual transmission. There’s also the 3.6-liter V6 engine (280 horsepower, 258 lb-ft. torque) with VW’s popular DSG® transmission. That’s DSG, as inone of the best features about VWs. Also known as a two-clutch transmission, the DSG helps reduce lag between shifts, making driving more fun and efficient.* And of course, there’s the diesel – or TDI Clean Diesel – with rocks green lights with 236 lb-ft. of torque and puts out 140 horsepower. The TDI engine is mated to either manual or DSG transmission.
Steering comes courtesy of two different systems: Passats with the 2.5-liter engine get hydraulic steering assist, while TDI and V6 models come with electronic steering. Safety features include a new steering column designed to help protect the driver during a frontal collision, reinforced door panels to guard against side impact, front and side curtain airbags and VW’s Integrated Crash Response System (ICRS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Anti-lock brakes (ABS), and Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

TDI CLEAN DIESEL: We know what you’re thinking. Diesel used to be smelly, loud and nasty, and as a result got a bad rap in the states thanks to big trucks and long-ago mistakes by automakers. It’s just not true anymore, so – get over it. Today’s diesel is clean, thanks to the fuel and engine technology that VW uses to help improve efficiency and boost performance.† Fact is, TDI Clean Diesel models are arguably better and more efficient than their gasoline-powered siblings. There’s also the feel-good angle: the 2012 VW Passat TDI meets BIN5/LEV2 emissions standards, courtesy of a computer-controlled injection system that sprays fuel directly into the combustion chamber. At high pressure, this helps to promote more complete combustion. In addition, Passat TDI models use a special catalyst and urea-injection system that reduces NOx emissions by up to 95 percent. Filled by a 4.9 gallon tank located inside the trunk, the injection system delivers a range of approximately 15,500 miles. Service is handled at your local VW dealership and is covered by the Passat model’s no-charge Carefree Maintenance Program. ††
TECHNOLOGY: The all-new 2012 VW Passat wouldn’t be a VW without some seriously cool tech on board. This is the stuff that makes life with the Passat a fun ride down the interstate, warms up cold mornings and equips you with a well-earned smugness when you roll through the neighborhood. It starts with music, of course: Passat buyers choose between several entertainment systems, starting with the RCD 310 – a two color display unit with AM/FM radio and CD player. That’s standard on the Passat S, while the Passat SE gets either the RCD 510 and its full color touch screen display, six disc CD changer, SD card reader, and an MP3 player, or the optional RNS 315, which adds a navigation system, a 5” color display and touch screen and Media Device Interface (MDI) for MP3 players. SEL buyers upgrade to the RNS 510 and its navigation system with a 6.5” color display and touch screen, 30 GB hard drive and simultaneous route guidance. Also available is Sirius Satellite Radio® with a three-month free trial, and, best of all, the Fender® Premium Audio System, consisting of nine speakers (including subwoofer). Fender Premium Audiois available on certain trims.
The Passat also features available keyless entry and push button start as well as remote start, a new feature for the Passat that allows you to heat up the car from outside the vehicle. Just press the lock button once followed by the remote start button twice and the engine starts, returning the car to the temperature last set in the vehicle. Remote start is offered on select trim lines with automatic transmission

INTERIOR HIGHLIGHTS: The all-new 2012 VW Passat upholds VW’s reputation as the maker of refined and comfortable interiors. It’s also spacious – especially when it comes to rear legroom – thanks to a wheelbase that measures 3 inches longer than the previous Passat. Add to this increased elbow room a smartly designed interior that places a premium on ergonomics and convenience. From the center console to the armrests, glovebox and cupholders, the Passat is roomy, comfortable and built with quality materials. Colors include Titan Black, Moonrock Gray and Cornsilk Beige.

[chittychittybangbang]

More on Fender's audio system for the 2012 VW Passat

Volkswagen of America has joined forces with Fender Musical Instruments Corp. to bring the raw emotion of a live music performance inside the four doors of Volkswagen’s all-new 2012 Passat. The company’s partnership with Fender will equip select 2012 models, including the Passat, with the Fender Premium Audio System.
“The best seat in the house is now behind the wheel of a Volkswagen,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “Our two iconic companies — one with a passion for driving, one with a passion for music — are joining forces to bring the raw emotion of live music to the driving experience.”
“By partnering with Volkswagen on the Fender Premium Audio System, we are creating a unique partnership with a truly innovative company allowing us to deliver a product that is as unique, expressive and dynamic as the customers who use it,” said Mark Van Vleet, Senior Vice President, Business Affairs for Fender.
The 2012 Jetta GLI will be the first Volkswagen model in dealerships this spring featuring the all-new Fender Premium Audio System. The completely redesigned 2012 Passat will follow in the fall, delivering superior German engineering and the highest quality sound to Volkswagen’s new mid-size sedan drivers.
The Fender Premium Audio System in Volkswagen was born of collaboration between two brands known for precision in engineering and passion for innovation. To develop the best possible audio system for Volkswagen, Fender formed a partnership with Panasonic that combined Fender’s 64 years of expertise in sound and sound amplification with Panasonic’s 68 years of experience with mobile audio systems.
The Fender Premium Audio System in 2012 Volkswagen models is embedded in the vehicle design. Three years of research, development and tuning in a new, state-of-the-art sound lab, resulted in a nine-speaker system that delivers uncompromised clarity, regardless of volume, with a unique sound that Americans will love.
The system features proprietary Panasonic speaker technology. The system covers the cabin with directional sound from front door speakers that generate imaging beyond the capabilities of traditional speaker designs. It cuts through the noise and other distractions with front dual voice coil speakers, with extended range for all musical genres.
The design features lower inter-modulation distortion and smooth mid-range response to eliminate harshness. It is harmonically complex, with extended range tweeters and properly voiced 16cm speakers revealing original instrumentation timbre and harmonic richness.