Volkswagen will take the wraps off a new Passat saloon and estate at the Paris motor show.
Development of the new car is now at an advanced stage, although this is the first time the estate model has been caught in action, as well as being the first time the Passat has been spied testing in the US.
See the first spy pics of the new VW Passat estate
VW is classing the Passat as a new model, but essentially it will be a thorough re-style and re-engineering job in the same mould as the shift from the Mk5 to the current Mk6 Golf.
It will use the same platform and body as the current Passat, although there will be substantial changes to the front and rear ends, and the car will grow slightly in size as a result.
At the front, there will be a stylish, new four-bar grille and a new bonnet, while a Golf-style full-width lower air-intake gives the car a much wider and lower stance. Squarer headlights will also feature at the front, while there will also be changes to the rear light clusters and bumper designs, as well as trim changes.
Read Autocar's road test of the current VW Passat
The interior will also be overhauled; perceived quality will be boosted with new trim materials and dashboard features from the premium Passat CC. Other interior changes will include a new, sportier steering wheel and centre console, plus a more upmarket instrument pack.
The engine range is likely to be similar to today’s line-up, featuring 1.4 and 1.8 TSI petrol engines alongside 1.6 and 2.0 TDI diesel units. The niche 3.6-litre V6 R36 model is likely to be dropped.
