Volkswagen shows new Passat

 Volkswagen has revealed the seventh generation of its Passat at the Paris motor show.

The new model is based on the same underpinnings as the outgoing car, although every body panel has been changed. It’s just four millimetres longer than the old car, at 4769mm, but its width and height remain unchanged.

Styling changes include a fresh front grille and headlight treatment, and more chrome and new tail-lights at the rear. Inside there’s a revised fascia with new instrument dials and finishes, redesigned seats and a slightly revised centre console.

The line-up of petrol engines comprises a 1.4-litre 120bhp TSI, a 158bhp 1.8, and a 2.0-litre 207bhp TSI. The diesels are a 1.6-litre motor with 104bhp and a 2.0 with either 138bhp or 168bhp.

aManual and DSG gearboxes will be offered. VW says the new Passat will offer safety features normally reserved for luxury vehicles, including a “city emergency braking” function that automatically slows the car at speeds below 18mph when it senses an impending collision.

A fatigue detection system will also be offered as standard on the majority of the range. VW says the first deliveries of the car should take place in January 2011.