Saturday, August 20, 2005

Passat Coupé Confirmed

Text from Auto Express
We were first with the news in issue 855 - and now Volkswagen has come clean about its plans for a Passat coupé.

The firm's chief executive, Wolfgang Bernhard, confirmed the car has been given the green light during a dealer conference in America. Salesmen were even shown a top-secret picture of the model, which will sit between the Passat saloon and the flagship Phaeton.

The newcomer will be powered by a range of engines, with entry-level cars getting the Golf GTI's 2.0 FSI motor. More powerful petrol units will be available, including a V6 range-topper. A high-performance version of the 3.0-litre TDI diesel will also be offered, as will VW's DSG sequential manual gearbox and 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system.

Although built on the Passat platform, the coupé will feature sportier suspension for more involving handling. Outside, the nose will take inspiration from the Concept C convertible, which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show last year. A shorter rear overhang and sloping roofline help create a sporty profile, but the big surprise will be the doors. Despite the coupé look, the new VW will actually be a four-door, with the rear handles likely to be hidden in the C-pillar, as on the Alfa 156.

But while the German manufacturer has confirmed a Passat-based coupé will be built, sources say the firm is still undecided on whether to make an SUV to rival the Land Rover Freelander.