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
Engine versions
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.