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Passat B3 (1988–1993)

Passat B3 (1988–1993)
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Everything is new in the B3

Factory code: 35i (B3) saloon/ 35i (B3) estate

The transition to the third generation of the Passat is a lasting one. The design, package, technology, and interior are completely redesigned. The transverse installation of the engine gives the designers the opportunity to significantly expand the passenger compartment at the expense of the engine compartment. Herbert Schäfer's design appeals with its unusually clean lines and smooth surfaces, culminating in a front end without a radiator grille.

The engine breathes through a round air intake marked by the Volkswagen logo. The interior length is almost two metres from the accelerator pedal to the rear seat backrest, making many German luxury cars look compact in comparison.

Only two body variants are available: a four-door saloon and a Variant. Like all Passat models, they are produced in Emden, but now with robot-assisted production comparable to that in Hall 54 in Wolfsburg. A special feature is that the transmission is shifted by cable for the first time.

The VW Passat B3 is available in three trim levels: CL (basic), GL (comfort-oriented), and GT (sporty). In addition, various special models such as "Arriva", "Edition One", and "Comfort Edition" are available throughout the entire production period. The most sought-after top models are the Passat G60 with a 1.8-litre engine, 118 kW (160 PS), and syncro all-wheel drive from 1989, and, from 1991, the 128 kW (174 PS) VR six-cylinder engine.

Passat B3 profile

Vehicle data

Passat B3 (1988–1993)

Engine versions

Passat B3 (1988–1993)

Passat B3 variants & highlights

Passat B3 model update

1988

Four engines, three lines

The transverse installation of the drive motor means that more than four cylinders are not possible. In the first year of production, the following petrol engines are available: 1.6 litres (72 PS, also available with unregulated catalytic converter), 1.8 litres (90 PS), 1.8 litres (107 PS). Initially, there is only one diesel engine, the 1.6-litre turbo with 80 PS. In addition to the three equipment lines CL, GL, and GT, various special models are available throughout the entire production period.

1989

Several new engines

In January, the 2.0-litre 16V with 136 PS joins the engine range. There is a new four-speed automatic transmission with electronic control of the gear changes. The fourth gear works with a torque converter lock-up for the first time, thus eliminating any slip in this gear. The higher efficiency means lower fuel consumption and a more pleasant acoustic experience. A level control system using air bellows is now available for the Variant, replacing the coil springs and their strenuous work. A new addition to the range is a 1.9-litre naturally aspirated diesel engine with 68 PS.

1989

New all-wheel drive

From September, the saloon and Variant are available with the new all-wheel drive. The transverse engine enables the syncro concept from the Golf to be adopted. The version with the G60 engine (160 PS with mechanical supercharging) is recognisable by its model designation and 15-inch alloy wheels. One month later, the drive concept is also launched with the 2.0-litre engine and 115 PS.

1990

New petrol engines

Two new petrol engines expand the engine range. In August, the 1.6-litre engine with 72 PS is replaced by the 1.8-litre engine with 75 PS. The 107 PS engine is replaced by a 115 PS version.

1991

Six cylinders at last

In April, the VR6 petrol engine with 174 PS becomes available: a compact design with a narrow cylinder angle for transverse installation.

1991

D with T

From now on, the diesel engine is also available as a 1.9-litre turbo with 75 PS.

1992

New safety options

From December 1992, airbags and seatbelt tensioners are available as optional extras. To prevent transmission losses, the most powerful petrol engines are combined with an electronic differential lock.

1993

End of the series

The VW Passat B3 is discontinued in October.

Passat B3 advertisements

Passat B3 (1988–1993)
Passat B3 (1988–1993)
Passat B3 (1988–1993)
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The specified fuel consumption and emission data does not refer to a single vehicle and is not part of the offer but is only intended for comparison between different types of vehicles. Additional equipment and accessories (additional components, tyre formats, etc.) can alter relevant vehicle parameters such as weight, rolling resistance and aerodynamics, affecting the vehicle's fuel consumption, power consumption, CO₂ emissions and driving performance values in addition to weather and traffic conditions and individual driving behavior.

Further information on official fuel consumption data and official specific CO₂ emissions for new passenger cars can be found in the "Guide to fuel economy, CO₂ emissions and power consumption for new passenger car models", which is available free of charge from all sales dealerships and from DAT Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH, Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, D-73760 Ostfildern, Germany and at www.dat.de/co2.