Upcoming VW Passat Coupe Challenges Mercedes CLS
Date Posted 03-28-2005

MUNICH, Germany — Volkswagen is planning a five-door coupe version of its newly introduced Passat to take on the Mercedes-Benz CLS.

The German automaker has spent the last two years trying to figure out how to plug the gap between its new Passat and the Phaeton, as well as to take on Mercedes.

It has come up with the Passat Coupe, currently its working title, which could make its worldwide debut at the 2007 Frankfurt International Motor Show.

The new model will be derived from existing VW architecture and will be offered in front-drive and all-wheel-drive iterations, with four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines.

Instead of copying the Mercedes concept, VW has opted for a clever, more brand-appropriate solution. Insiders say it blends a stunning appearance with a highly practical interior. Among its versatile features is a rear hatch that opens in a variety of ways.

No word on pricing, but it is expected to be more affordable than comparable CLS models.

What it means to you: You want but can't afford the sexy Mercedes-Benz CLS? The VW Passat Coupe might be an attractive alternative.

Here is a list of some of the new Passat’s latest developments:

· All-new sixth generation Passat – completely redesigned and restyled inside and out

· Standard 2.0T turbocharged four-cylinder with direct injection, 200 hp, 207 ft.-lbs. torque

· Available 3.6L V6, 280 hp, 265 ft.-lbs. torque with standard six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic (4th quarter 2006)

· 2.4” more rear legroom than previous generation (37.7” vs. 35.3”)

· 1.5” wider track front and rear (61.1” vs. 59.6”)

· 3.0” wider body width (71.7” vs. 68.7”)

· 106.7” wheelbase (106.7” vs. 106.4”)

· Overall length of 188.2” (188.2” vs. 185.2”)

· Six-speed manual transmission, optional six-speed automatic with Tiptronic on 2.0T

· A/C standard on all models

· Dual-zone automatic climate control (Climatronic) optional on 3.6L

· Standard Eight-speaker AM/FM/CD sound system that is MP3 format compatible

· Premium sound with in-dash six-disk CD changer optional on 2.0T, standard on 3.6L.

· Dynaudio sound system optional, marking a first in the U.S. car market. Coming from Denmark’s most exclusive stereo maker, the Dynaudio system is custom designed to the Passat to achieve the best audio experience possible.

· Walnut, or brushed aluminum trim optional on 3.6L

· Available 10-way power driver seat, available 12-way on 3.6L.

· Optional DVD Navigation system, audible with color screen

· Electronic parking brake standard

· Tire-pressure monitoring system standard

· Optional multi-functional steering wheel

· Standard tilt and telescoping four-spoke steering wheel

· Leatherette seat trim standard, leather optional

· Rear passenger vents for A/C and heat standard

· 60/40 split folding rear seats with folding center armrest and pass-through feature

· Front center armrest with cooling storage feature

· ABS with four-wheel front vented disks standard

· Electronic Stabilization Program with brake assist standard

· EDL, ASR

· Standard crash-active head restraints

· 4Motion available with 3.6L V6 (later in 2006 MY)

· Eight air bags standard with rear side-thorax airbags optional

· Fully independent four-link rear suspension

· Electromechanical power steering

· Park distance control optional on 3.6L

· Bi-Xenon headlights with washers optional on 3.6L

· 18” wheels optional on 3.6L (delayed introduction)