
The Magotan does have a wagon version, which is an imported model. Taking the 2015 Magotan wagon as an example, it features a five-door, five-seat body structure with dimensions of 4771mm in length, 1820mm in width, and 1516mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2712mm. It has a fuel tank capacity of 70 liters and a trunk capacity ranging from 603 to 1731 liters, with a curb weight of 1582kg. The 2015 Magotan wagon is equipped with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a four-link independent rear suspension. It is powered by a 2.0T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 211PS, a maximum power of 155kW, and a maximum torque of 280Nm, paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.

I used to drive a Magotan Variant, which is commonly referred to as the imported Passat Variant in China. This car is particularly suitable for family users, as its trunk is almost twice as large as the sedan version, making it easy to fit a baby stroller or camping gear. The currently available model is the B8 version with the third-generation EA888 engine, featuring a 2.0T engine paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission across the lineup. However, it costs about 70,000 to 80,000 RMB more than the domestically produced Magotan. Interestingly, the overseas model has adopted a fastback design, but it hasn’t been introduced in China yet. If you’re particularly fond of station wagons, you might also consider the second-hand market, where older all-wheel-drive versions can now be picked up for around 150,000 RMB.

As a long-time fan of the family, the Magotan Variant, also known as the Passat Variant in China, has always been sold as an import. The current model is equipped with a 220-horsepower 2.0T engine, and its chassis is tuned to be stiffer than the domestically produced Magotan. It's worth noting that the rear seats are not lengthened, resulting in about a fist's width less legroom compared to the domestic version. Last year, I test-drove the new model with a 1.5T mild hybrid in Germany, which achieved a fuel consumption as low as 5.8L. Unfortunately, only the 2019 model is currently available in China. The wagon's cargo capacity is indeed practical, with the rear seats folded down able to accommodate a surfboard.

Many friends often confuse this point: the domestically produced Magotan is only available as a sedan, while the wagon version is separately named Variant. Being fully imported makes it more expensive, with the entry-level model costing around 300,000 RMB out-the-door. Recently, I helped a friend inspect a 2018 model, and there are several common issues to watch out for: the sunroof drain pipes are prone to clogging, leading to water leakage in the A-pillar, and frequent fault codes from the mechatronic control unit. If used, it's advisable to opt for a post-2020 380TSI model, as its transmission has been upgraded to the more stable DQ381. The trunk comes with a detachable flashlight, which is quite practical for finding things during camping trips.

Last week, I accompanied a colleague to check out the Variant, also known as the Magotan Travel Edition. The salesperson mentioned that the available vehicles are mostly the 2022-produced Comfortline version, priced around 280,000 CNY after discounts. Practical testing showed that the rear seats can be folded down to create a flat space with a depth of 2.1 meters, making it perfectly suitable for sleeping with an inflatable mattress. The only downside is that the infotainment system still uses the older MIB2 version, and wireless CarPlay frequently disconnects. It's advisable to bring a USB flash drive to test the USB port while waiting for the car, as the Type-C modules in this generation have a relatively high failure rate. If practicality is a priority, domestic MPVs could be a better option at this price point.

I still remember being instantly captivated when I first drove the Magotan Variant in 2016 - that classic shooting brake design is truly timeless. Although the current Passat Variant features updated lighting clusters, its signature waistline retains that familiar charm. The best part for daily use is the incredibly deep trunk - my Golden Retriever can just jump right in. However, be aware that imported vehicle parts have long lead times; a friend waited a full two months for replacement taillights after a collision. For current buyers, I'd recommend opting for the top-trim version with ventilated seats - it makes summer road trips significantly more comfortable than the sedan version.


