Volkswagen introduced the third Passat generation in 1988 on a new platform and followed a new design concept that affected its successors.
In 1993, the carmaker introduced a heavily facelifted version of its mid-size competitor. Ford put up a big fight with the 1993 Mondeo, and Volkswagen had to upgrade its model. Instead of calling the ‘93 Passat a facelift, the carmaker said it was the Passat B4. But it was the same platform, with the same greenhouse and roof. It replaced the rest of the body panels, though.

At the front, Volkswagen’s designers created a new front fascia with a slatted grille and elongated, horizontal headlights. Unlike the second generation, from the Passat B3/B4, the carmaker offered it only as a three-box sedan or as a station wagon, dropping the hatchback version. Its body-colored bumpers with a black rubber stripe running along the body were a shy step forward over its predecessor.

Inside, the comfortable interior offered a revised interior. The center stack was tilted towards the driver and provided easy-to-access controls and commands. Depending on the trim level and engine version, the Passat featured high-bolstered front seats or plain bucket seats at the front. Volkswagen installed a bench for two in the back, with an option for a center armrest between the occupants. The bench was wide enough for three, but there was no headrest for a middle passenger.

Under the hood, the Passat offered a choice of eight engines, either gasoline or diesel. Volkswagen brought only a few of them on the U.S. market: a turbo-diesel and a 2.8-liter V-6. The former was available exclusively with a five-speed manual, while the latter offered an option for a four-speed automatic.