Volkswagen has plans for a big four-seater cabriolet based on the next generation Passat that will rival cars such as the Mercedes-Benz CLK Cabriolet.

Sources say that VW has already approved plans for this big drop-top - and apparently it will be called the "Brisa".

Another sign that VW is serious about the Brisa is that the company has admitted that it is developing a cabriolet, which is not based on the Golf.

VW has decided against a Golf soft-top because it will go head to head with the Beetle convertible.

To keep up with its rivals the Brisa will have a foldable hardtop similar to that of the Mercedes SLK and Renault Megane CC. It will be the only car in its class in this upper premium class having this type of roof, though it is suspected that the other manufacturers will follow suit.

The VW Brisa will share design cues with the VW Concept R roadster, which was shown at Frankfurt this year, and the Phaeton luxury car. The Brisa is expected to have a length of about 4.5 metres.

Wheels24 - 14 Nov 2003