Volkswagen has released images and details for the upgraded Passat CC, the car that meets the demands of those who lust after a Mercedes CLS but just can't afford it. However, the company's international press information makes no mention of the Passat nameplate. Draw from that whatever conclusion you will…
To keep the model fresh for another four years, VW has revised the styling of the Passat CC front and rear, in the process aligning the car with the current corporate design language. In addition, the Passat CC is now fitted as standard with bi-xenon headlights, static cornering lights and LED tail lights.
Inside, new features include fatigue detection, an updated ('RCD310') CD audio system, stainless steel door sills, front-seat headrests with longer adjustment in the longitudinal plane. Side Assist Plus is a new optional safety feature that integrates Lane Assist to keep the driver informed of vehicles in the Passat's blind spots and actively steer the vehicle away from danger. Dynamic Light Assist, another option, adjusts headlight beam height to suite traffic conditions. And Volkswagen will follow prestige marques by offering a camera-based speed limit monitoring system.
In Europe the Passat CC will be powered by different types of diesel and petrol engines, all direct-injected. Irrespective of the engine fitted, the Passat CC's auto-stop/start system will save fuel when the vehicle is idling at standstill and a brake energy recovery system is also standard.
The two diesel engines develop 103kW or 125kW, while the petrol engines are rated at 118kW, 155kW or 220kW of peak power. For North America the petrol engines will develop 147kor 206kW. Volkswagen will unveil the new Passat CC at the Los Angeles motor show later this month, before rolling out the new model progressively to global markets, including Australia, next year.
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