VW hints at Passat 4x4

Wednesday, July 27, 2005

VW plans tougher-looking, 4WD Passat estate
On sale later this year
Prices from around £15,995

Passat estate goes on sale later this year from an expected £15,995

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Volkswagen is likely to launch a tougher-looking, four-wheel-drive version of its new Passat estate, which goes on sale later this year.

The manufacturer has not confirmed when the Audi Allroad-style car could hit the market but said it is the next logical step for the Passat.

Volkswagen's existing 4Motion four-wheel-drive system will probably be used for the car which, like the Octavia 4x4 estate launched by Skoda earlier this year, could feature raised ride height for improved ground clearance.

Chunkier bumpers and wheelarches – similar to those worn by the Allroad, a new version of which was confirmed for production by Audi this week – would also give the VW greater road presence.

VW said it is working on more powerful diesel engines than the existing 138bhp units, which would suit the 4x4 Passat well.

The new Passat estate goes on sale this November and is likely to cost from £15,995, £1000 more than the saloon. The 4x4 version would likely cost from around £17,000.

VW is also working on a second fully fledged 4x4 to sit below the Touareg line-up. Based on the Golf small family car, the Honda CR-V rival is expected to go on sale next year with a price tag of around £19,000.