Volkswagen has launched their flagship sedan in India, the Passat, at an introductory price tag of Rs 29.99 lakhs for the Comfortline trim and Rs 32.99 lakhs for the top-spec Highline. This is an all-new Passat based on the MQB platform that it shares with the new Superb along with the Audi A4. So if you are out to buy a premium sedan, rather a saloon, this Diwali, this will certainly help you make a decision.
For a price of Rs 30-odd lakhs on-road, all you want is luxury from your car. So let us get on with the saloons in this segment. You can choose between the Skoda Superb, the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord as a direct alternative for the Passat. While both the Japanese cars are hybrids, the Camry and the Accord are petrol only. The Skoda Superb is offered with both petrol and diesel mills but offers more cabin space than the Passat, thanks to its longer wheelbase.
In case you want a brand to show off, you have the Mercedes-Benz CLA or the Audi A3 in a similar price range. But both of these entry-level luxury sedans are much smaller in size with comparatively less space for the occupants. Also, the Passat matches each of these two in features and equipment and exceeds in a few avenues as well.
The entry-level crossover luxury SUVs are also not too far removed from the Passat Highline. Stretch your budget a little and the Audi Q3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA are well within reach, along with the BMW X1. Even then, you will only get the base trims which will look lack-lustre when compared to the Passat.
Instead, if you want brawn, nothing beats the duo of the Ford Endeavour and the Toyota Fortuner. Plus you also have the Skoda Kodiaq or VW’s own Tiguan in this space.
