Safety Features On The Ever-Popular Passat

Active safety in all new Passats comes from their precise handling, the security of front-wheel-drive, advanced ABS braking, and other accident avoidance aids like daytime running lights (DRL).

For protection when an accident can't be avoided, the Passat offers a highly advanced passive safety system that comprises a multitude of state-of-the-art safety features and structural elements designed to work together to help protect its occupants.

This system begins with the Passat's exceptionally rigid body structure that includes energy absorbing crumple zones. In a severe crash, these deformation zones sacrifice themselves in an accordion-like fashion, absorbing the energy to help spare the critical central structure.

This system works in concert with an advanced supplemental restraint system. In addition to front driver and passenger airbags, the Passat uses a new seat belt tensioning system that tightens and optimally positions all outboard belts within milliseconds of a severe crash. These three-point safety belts are also equipped with shoulder height adjustments, and to help secure a child safety seat, which should only be used in the rear seats, automatic locking retractors (ALR) and emergency locking retractors (ELR) are provided.

The Passat was the first Volkswagen to utilize side airbags for front seat occupants. This system is integrated into the front seats for good reason: no matter where the front occupant adjusts his or her seat position, the airbag maintains its protective relationship. This cannot always be assured if the side airbag is installed in the door or the roof pillar.

Side protection is further ensured by special reinforcements and structural members, including anti-intrusion tubes and foam padding at all four doors.

Additional frontal impact protection comes from the steering system via a collapsible steering column and a steering wheel specially cushioned and designed to manage impact energy.

Further details of how the Passat interior provides occupant protection are found in the absence of sharp interior edges, recessed handles and control switches, crushable sun visors, a foldable rearview mirror, and non-override door locks.

Standard on the Passat is one of the most comprehensive warranty and maintenance protection plans available to new car buyers. Volkswagen's Protection Plus includes a two-year/24,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty and the industry's best manufacturer's limited powertrain warranty at 10-years/100,000 miles. Now, with the fully galvanized Passat, the Protection Plus package includes an outstanding limited corrosion warranty of 12 years, with no mileage restrictions.

In addition to the extensive warranties, Volkswagen dealers will perform all scheduled maintenance, at no charge, for two years or 24,000 miles. Two year, 24-hour roadside assistance is also provided.