The New VW Magotan Proves Sedans Are Still Relevant Outside Of America

Americans had to settle for an inferior product in the outgoing Passat. Europe and China got the updated version in 2018, known as the Magotan, and now the sedan is transitioning to its next generation. The midsizer has made an early appearance in images published by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT).  

The 2025 Magotan is basically the new Volkswagen Passat sedan that won’t be sold anywhere else except in China. In Europe and other regions, the Passat is now exclusively a wagon. However, the mechanically related Skoda Superb is still available as a five-door liftback alongside the long-roof model. These revealing images show VW has made substantial changes to the car’s design compared to the global wagon, presumably to better cater to Chinese tastes.

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That said, it’s still not the most exciting design. Compared to the European Passat, the Magotan looks boxier and has a traditional trunk lid versus to the Superb’s more practical tailgate. The taillight design and extended light bar take after VW’s electric ID. models. All versions depicted here have the exhaust tip tucked away underneath the bumper.

The car with matte black/grey paint is the most expensive of the bunch and has a “Flagship” script on the front doors, just below the side mirrors. It rides on two-tone wheels with an assortment of glossy black accents. Those looking for a more daring design will be able to get the Magotan with a purple paint job.

Accompanying the images are specs pertaining to size and engine. The new family sedan is 196.4 inches (4990 millimeters) long, 73 in (1854 mm) wide, and 58.5 in (1487 mm) tall, with a wheelbase of 113 in (2871 mm). It tips the scales at 3,712 pounds (1,684 kilograms) and is offered with wheels varying in size from 17 to 19 inches. Motivation is provided by a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine rated at 217 horsepower.

Keep in mind that the Magotan isn’t the largest sedan Volkswagen sells in China – the luxurious Phideon holds the title of the company’s flagship saloon. Volkswagen offers a diverse range of sedans in China, including the Lamando L, Lavida, Sagitar, CC, Santana, Bora, Passat, Magotan, and Phideon.