Unveiled at the Volkswagen Design Centre in Potsdam, the latest Passat (see video here) is based on the group's modular MQB platform, which also underpins the Golf Mk7.

Helped by the use of lightweight materials, the 2015 Passat is actually lighter than before – by up to 85kg – and offers more passenger space despite being shorter than the outgoing model. It also offers a sleeker design, with lower body, longer wheelbase and larger wheels, and brings up to 20% better fuel economy from a range of petrol and diesel engines, with a plug-in hybrid also available.

‘This Passat heralds in a new era: when it comes to design and proportions, engines and drive systems, infotainment and assistance systems or when it is a matter of safety, convenience and driving pleasure,’ explained Prof Dr Martin Winterkorn, chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen. ‘The new Passat gives the right answers to the major automotive trends of its time. For me this Passat is a premium class car without premium costs. This fits perfectly to Europe's most successful business car.’

Latest technologies include systems such as Active Info display (a fully digital instrument cluster), extendible head-up display as well as systems such as an app-based Rear Seat Entertainment for tablet computers, Front Assist plus City Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring and three more 'world firsts' according to the brand: Emergency Assist (vehicle stops in emergency), Trailer Assist (assisted manoeuvring with a trailer) and Traffic Jam Assist.



The new Passat will be available with 10 direct-injection turbocharged petrol and diesel engines covering a power range from 120PS to 280PS. All engines all meet Euro 6 emission standards and are equipped with a stop-start system and a regenerative braking mode.

For the first time, the Passat will also be offered with a plug-in hybrid drive (115 kW TSI petrol engine plus 80 kW electric motor and externally chargeable battery). With a system power output of 211PS it will be Volkswagen's most powerful plug-in hybrid and will also offer an all-electric range of 50km.  



Prices in Europe start from €25,875 (saloon) and €26,950 (estate).