Volkswagen fully redesigns Passat sedan

DETROIT - There's an all-new Volkswagen Passat coming soon, but it's likely only the keenest eyes will spot the difference.

The new sedan for 2020 was unveiled Monday at the North American International Auto Show.

It features all-new sheetmetal and some new technology in the cabin. However, it also continues the conservative look familiar on most modern Volkswagens.

Don't be surprised if the new Passat isn't instantly recognizable as a new model. The outgoing model isn't a common sight on American roads, as Volkswagen sold only about 41,000 Passats in 2018. That compares to more than 340,000 Toyota Camrys and 291,000 Honda Accords sold in the same year.

Still, Volkswagen managers said Monday that they are committed to providing a midsize sedan and that they specifically designed the new Passat with American customers in mind.

Those buyers will enjoy standard features like 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, LED headlights, connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring.

For buyers who want a little more, there's also available adaptive cruise control, lane assist, park assist, leather interior and heated rear seats.

The 2020 Passat will be powered by the same two-liter four-cylinder engine that can be found in the outgoing model. However, a software shortly after the car goes on sale will help increase the torque produced by the motor.

The new Passat is expected to go on sale later this summer.