The current generation US market Volkswagen Passat has been around since 2011 and received a mid-life facelift for 2016. Any vehicle that can be dated back nearly eight years represents something of a dinosaur in this day and age of rapid automotive development. But the Tennessee-built Passat presses on for 2019 although there are some notable trim alterations.

The Car Connection has confirmed with VW that the 2019 Passat will no longer offer the 3.6-liter V6 option. The 2.0-liter turbo diesel, as we all know, is already long gone, thus leaving the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, new for 2018, as the sole engine offering. It will again come paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The absence of the V6 also means the GT trim has been dropped, along with the S and SEL. The Wolfsburg Edition and SE R-Line trim levels will continue for the new model year. The former trim will once again include 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless ignition, automatic emergency braking and a blind-spot monitoring system. A sunroof and 18-inch alloys will be optional.

Meanwhile, the SE R-Line gains LED headlights and taillights, an improved infotainment system, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and Fender-branded audio, among other upgrades. Official pricing for the 2019 VW Passat has yet to be announced, though we don't expect it to change dramatically from last year's $22,995 base price.

The fact that the Passat GT, with its lowered suspension and numerous other sporty upgrades, lasted for only one model year is quite telling. Let's face it: sedans, most notably compact and mid-size family sedans, are a dying breed as crossovers continue to win the auto evolution battle called survival of the strongest-selling.