What car is the Passat with letters?
3 Answers
The Passat with letters refers to the Phaeton, where the letters are positioned below the rear emblem, spelling out PHAETON in full. The Passat Phaeton is classified as a full-size sedan, with body dimensions of 1579mm in length, 1903mm in width, and 1450mm in height, a wheelbase of 3001mm, a fuel tank capacity of 90 liters, and a curb weight of 2188kg. The Passat Phaeton features a multi-link independent suspension at the front and a multi-link independent suspension at the rear. It is powered by a 3.0L V6 naturally aspirated engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 250PS, a peak power of 184kW, and a maximum torque of 310Nm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
I've been driving for many years and often help friends choose cars. The 'Passat with letters' refers to a special edition of the Volkswagen Passat, featuring raised 'PASSAT' lettering on the lower part of the rear bumper, which looks particularly eye-catching. This design originates from the traditional style of Volkswagen's luxury car, the Phaeton, but is more accessible when applied to the Passat, typically starting with the B8 generation models after 2016. Many people initially mistake it for a high-end car, but in reality, it's just a mid-range family sedan with unique exterior elements that make the vehicle appear more upscale and premium. When selecting a car, I noticed that this version also includes LED taillight clusters, which not only save energy but also improve nighttime visibility. However, in terms of driving performance, the powertrain is not much different from the regular Passat, and it still requires regular checks on the engine and tire wear. Overall, the 'Passat with letters' has become one of Volkswagen's brand signatures, and owners often joke about it as a topic of 'letter phobia' among themselves.
I've driven quite a few cars, but the lettered version of the Passat left the deepest impression on me, specifically the arrangement of the 'PASSAT' letters on the rear. This design became popular around 2015, inspired by the Phaeton's concept, but Volkswagen made it more mainstream. When you see a new Passat parked on the street, those letters make the rear end look much cooler, more stylish than just a logo. When buying, be aware that not all Passats come with the lettering—it's mainly the high-end or sport versions, which are slightly more expensive. A friend of mine who bought one often brags about its appearance, but I reminded him to pay attention to maintenance, as the lettered area tends to collect dust and needs regular cleaning. Overall, this car's unique styling sparked a wave of street car culture and always becomes a focal point in community discussions.
