True, on roads, tracks...
True, on roads, tracks, frozen lakes and in remote deserts I often test cars whose tanks have been filled by the manufacturers. But I also spend time driving around in a wide variety of gas-guzzling and frugal models which run on fuel I"ve paid for. It"s impossible to estimate how much I"ve personally spent over the decades. But the last thing I"m prepared to do is beat myself up over the fact. And although it"s entirely up to you, my humble advice is that you shouldn"t feel bad either.
As our images show...
As our images show, the designers have gone back to the drawing board with the exterior styling. There"s also a new platform, a revised range of engines and a spacious interior.
Initially available only as a four-door, the Passat takes inspiration from VW"s latest show cars. While the profile remains true to the outgoing model, its detailing - including the headlamps and chrome grille - have been influenced by the Concept C coup탩-cabriolet.
Along the flanks, the flared wheelarches have been smoothed out and the glass area enlarged. At the rear, the car has a much more modern look, with LED tail-lamps giving a sharper finish.
Measuring 4.77 metres long, 1.82 metres wide and 1.47 metres tall, the Passat is slightly bigger than the machine it replaces. Inside, the cabin has been substantially redesigned, and VW promises that ergonomics and interior quality have been improved. The newcomer is also set to be more driver-oriented, with clearly laid-out instruments and supportive seats. Its 565-litre boot should offer impressive practicality.
The Passat will be launched in February, before going on sale in the UK in November. Features new to the range include an electronic parking brake, plus a keyless entry and start system.
There are fresh bi-xenon headlamps, while adaptive cruise control is tipped to debut as well. VW"s latest stability control programme will ensure the car remains sure-footed in even the most extreme conditions. The system incorporates a function for owners who regularly tow heavy loads, and this is designed to reduce trailer-snaking.
At launch, there will be a choice of four engines, with 1.6 and 2.0-litre FSI powerplants for petrol buyers, plus 1.9-litre and 2.0-litre TDI diesel units. It"s this latter pair which are expected to prove the most popular among private and fleet customers alike.
The range will be joined later by a more powerful evolution of the firm"s new 2.0-litre TDI, as well as a 3.2-litre petrol V6. These high-performance units aren"t expected to be offered until early in 2006. There"s currently no word on whether VW will employ the powerful but thirsty W8 that appeared in the previous-generation model. However, it"s thought bosses have discounted this engine from European sale.
Initial showroom cars will be front-wheel drive, but drivers will have the choice of five and six-speed manual boxes, plus VW"s impressive Formula One-style DSG automatic. Four-wheel-drive editions of the Passat are under development and are expected to debut early in 2006, together with the eagerly anticipated estate version. Sharing the same face as the saloon, that car is expected to have boot space on a par with class leaders, and will be boosted by a fold-flat seating layout.
Prices won"t be confirmed until much closer to the Passat"s arrival here, but each model is expected to cost at least í‚á£1,000 more than its current equivalent. That means the entry-level 1.6-litre petrol variant will start from í‚á£15,900.