VW Focuses on Electric Future With End of Passat Production
The automaker announced a special Passat Limited Edition model to celebrate the sedan's exit
Photo: Volkswagen
Since 1973, the Passat has been a successful part of Volkswagen’s lineup. But the goals and aspirations of automakers change over time. VW has been committed to an all-electric future for some time now, and it recently announced that it would end production of the iconic Passat at its Chattanooga, Tennessee, plant to focus more on its electrified future.
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The timing of the Passat’s end makes complete sense, as large family sedans have slowly been losing their appeal over the years as more versatile crossovers and SUVs flood the market. Volkswagen of America’s president and CEO Scott Keogh is optimistic about the brand’s future SUV success at the Chattanooga plant: “With the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport in high demand, and the North American production launch of the all-electric ID.4 SUV next year, our future in Chattanooga looks brighter than ever.”
Special Passat Limited Edition
For those wanting to commemorate the Passat’s long-lasting journey in the auto world, Volkswagen is producing 1,973 Limited Edition models to recognize its history and those who helped build the Passat. The 2022 Volkswagen Passat Limited Edition will be available in four unique color combinations to pay homage to a certain aspect of the vehicle’s past.
- 411 Aurora Red Metallic models with a Titan Black interior signify the original vehicle production code.
- 423 Racing Green Metallic models with a Mauro brown interior represent the Chattanooga area code.
- 524 Pure White models with a Mauro Brown interior represent the opening date of the Chattanooga plant on May 24 (5/24), 2011.
- 615 Platinum Grey Metallic models with a Titan Black interior represent the six generations of imported Passat models, one generation at the Chattanooga plant, and five decades of sales.
Other unique special edition features include seat tags with “1 of 1973” on one side and “VW Chattanooga Since 2011” on the other side as well as cup holder mats with aerial maps of the city and the factory on them.
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Pricing for the 2022 Passat Limited Edition starts at $30,295 with the Aurora Red Metallic exterior paint costing an additional $395. No on-sale date has been revealed nor has VW announced where many of these models will be located for purchase. Hopefully they’ll be spread out at dealerships so fans across the U.S. get a chance to own a piece of the brand’s history.
Ben never thought he’d be writing about cars for a living, but here he is, knowing more about the Kia Stinger than he’d care to admit. When he’s not devoting his time to researching engine specs and other oh-so-exciting car details, he can be found enjoying time with his wife and dogs. See more articles by Ben.