VW is due to launch its new Passat in 2005 and it promises to be a stunner with a bold and aggressive look, hinting of what to expect of future Volkswagens.

Volkswagen is launching its next generation Passat early in 2005 and the manufacturer is making sure that it will be a head-turner to compete against German rivals such as the BMW 3-series and Mercedes Cclass.

The 2005 VW Passat will feature the Wolfsburg car manufacturer's startling new design direction which was first seen on the sizzling Concept C at the Geneva Motor Show, and recently again at the 2004 British Motor Show.

The car's most striking styling cue will be its prominent nose design, which will be similar to that of the Concept C. Its aggressive new single-frame grille, made of aluminium, will eventually become a VW trademark and feature on vehicles such as the next Bora and Sharan.

The new Passat won't grow much in overall length but thanks to a more compact engine layout it will have a shorter bonnet and longer wheelbase increasing interior space.

Insiders say that VW won't equip the 2006 Passat with V6 and W8 engines, instead the petrol line-up will include a 113 bhp 1.6-litre, a 148 bhp 2-litre FSI, a 198 bhp 2-litre Turbo FSI and a 248 bhp 3.2-litre VR6. The diesel range will include 105 bhp 1.8-litre TDI, 138 bhp 2-litre TDI and 158 bhp 2-litre TDI units.

Wheels24 - 2 Jun 2004