Description
The value of KW V3 on a 10/96–05 Volkswagen Passat (B5 B5.5 3B 3BG) is not just the change in stance; it is the ability to place the chassis in a more controlled operating window for the way the car is actually driven.
KW V3 is built around independent low-speed rebound and compression adjustment. KW's current V3 architecture provides 16 rebound clicks and 12 compression clicks, giving an enthusiast meaningful control over chassis support, response and ride without moving into a dedicated motorsport damper. The application-specific calibration is intended to give the chassis a more deliberate response than a one-size-fits-all suspension combination.
Why Choose the KW V3 for This Application?
Choose the V3 when the car needs a broader operating window. Independent rebound and compression control makes it easier to balance ride, platform support and tire contact as the build moves between street use and more demanding driving.
Key Features
- 16-click low-speed rebound adjustment
- 12-click low-speed compression adjustment
- Independent rebound and compression tuning
- Continuously adjustable ride height within the application-specific range
Vehicle Fitment
- Make: Volkswagen
- Catalog Application: 10/96–05 Volkswagen Passat (B5 B5.5 3B 3BG)
- Configuration: Sedan + Wagon; Syncro/4motion; all engines
- KW Jobber Model Years: 10/96-05
- KW Part Number: 35280017
Technical Specifications
- Front Height Adjustment: 40-75 mm (1.5-2.9 in)
- Rear Height Adjustment: 40-75 mm (1.5-2.9 in)
- Front Spring Rate: 690 lb/in
- Rear Spring Rate: Progressive-rate spring (KW jobber designation)
Enthusiast Setup Perspective
A good installation should leave enough travel for the road or circuit being used. Chasing maximum lowering at the expense of bump travel can work against the very grip and control this system is intended to provide. After installation, establish ride height and alignment first, then make damper changes in small increments and record them so the effect of each adjustment remains clear.
Important KW Fitment Notes
- KW Note 1: Height adjustable on the front and rear axles (threaded strut housings)
- KW Note 9: The automatic level control must be disabled
- KW Note 10: For V2, V3 & Street Comfort coilovers, front shock absorbers need to be removed from the car for adjustment of stiffness
- KW Note 16: Additional assembly parts are required from the automobile manufacturer for vehicles with self levelling control. (Audi part-no.: damper bearing 8E0 512 121 E, spring base 8E0 512 149 H, bump stop eB0 512 131Q)
Fitment note: Specifications above are tied to the exact KW part number shown and the application data in the supplied KW jobber sheet. Confirm the vehicle's drivetrain, factory electronic suspension, axle weight and any listed hardware requirements before ordering.