The 2020 Volkswagen Passat is offered in four trim levels: S, SE, R-Line and SEL. The only engine choice is a turbocharged 2.0L TSI (2.0T) 4-cylinder engine makes 174 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque, while providing an EPA estimated 34 mpg on the highway and 23 mpg in the city. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Base S trim comes standard with a 6.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring App-connect and SiriusXM satellite radio and 1 USB port. The Base trim also comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, fully automatic LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, keyless entry, cloth seating surfaces, and heated side mirrors.

The SE trim adds leatherette seating surfaces, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, a total of 3 USB ports, HD Radio, automatic climate control with dual zone front controls, KESSY keyless access with push button start, adaptive cruise control, a Lane Keeping System, rain-sensing wipers and a 6-way power driver's seat with 2-way power lumbar. The SE trim is available with an optional power sunroof.

The R-Line trim looks even more aggressive with a rear lip spoiler and aggressive-styled 19-inch wheels. Other standard features on the R-Line trim include ambient lighting, a power sunroof, black side window trim and black front bumper inserts with R-Line badging in the grille.

The top-of-the-line SEL trim adds 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive headlights, a hands-free Easy Open trunk, power-folding exterior mirrors, leather seating surfaces, a 9-speaker Fender 400-watt audio system, a standard navigation system and park distance control.

All Passat models include six standard airbags, including side-curtain airbags that cover front and rear occupants, plus standard electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes and hydraulic brake assist, frontal collision warning with emergency braking, a blind-spot monitor and a pedestrian detection system. A Lane Keeping System is standard on SE trims and higher.