For 2020, the Volkswagen Passat's sheetmetal has been redesigned, giving the car a much bolder look. The sophisticated design, which carries only the roof panel from the previous car, lends the Passat a simplified elegance that helps it stand out from the rest of the midsize sedan competitors, with a straightened greenhouse and a coupe-like roofline.

Slim headlights and a dominant grille give the 2020 Passat a focused, expressive face. The powerful promise of the front end is supported by an elegant and dynamic side treatment that features a strong Tornado line. Standard 17-inch ten-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels and 215/55R17 tires give the car a more dynamic stance, while SEL models come shod with 18-inch five-spoke two tone wheels and 235/45/R18 rubber. Passat SEL trims are further equipped with Volkswagen's Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) with range control and cornering lights.