2015 European Volkswagen Passat teased

The eighth-generation Volkswagen Passat will buck a widespread industry trend by being slightly smaller than its predecessor. However, despite having reduced dimensions, more room for both passengers and luggage is promised thanks to better packaging.

Due to be unveiled in July ahead of a public debut at October’s Paris Motor Show, it will once again be offered in saloon and estate guises. Plenty of advanced technologies are going to be available including a TFT screen in place of conventional instruments, LED headlights and an upgraded self-parking device that even works with a trailer attached.

For now details of the engine line-up are sparse, but a plug-in hybrid powertrain with an electric-only range of up to 31 miles (50 kilometres) has been confirmed. Also announced already is a 2.0 litre, four-cylinder, biturbo diesel engine that produces 236 bhp (177 kW / 240 PS) and 500 Nm (368 lb/ft) of torque. That output will be delivered via a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission and the 4Motion all-wheel drive system.

First UK deliveries of the new Passat are scheduled to take place in early 2015.

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