The all-new Volkswagen Passat will cost from €27,295 when it arrives in Ireland in January. The announcement comes as Volkswagen Ireland opens order books for the new saloon ahead of the car's official debut at next month's Paris Motor Show.
That price will get you behind the wheel of a 125hp 1.4-litre TSI petrol powered car, though you will have to pay €28,940 for the entry-level, 120hp 1.6-litre diesel. Estate versions will be available from €29,225 for petrol power and €31,200 for the TDI diesel.
Also available is a 150hp version of the petrol TSI engine, complete with cylinder-on-demand technology to reduce fuel consumption; a 150hp 2.0-litre TDI unit with emissions of 108g/km; and a 190hp version of the latter that emits just 106g/km.
Familiar trim lines Trendline, Comfortline and Highline return with the entry-level Passat featuring air conditioning, a five-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, an electric parking brake, Front Assist including City Emergency Brake, leather steering wheel and a keyless engine start system called 'Keyless Go'.
Comfortline adds 16-inch alloy wheels and boosts the touchscreen up to 6.5 inches in size and also includes Park Distance Control front and rear, cruise control, a leather multi-function steering wheel, three-zone climate control, front fog lights, an interior ambient lighting package and rain sensing wipers. Range topping Highline adds 17-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, 'Comfort' seats in Alcantara/leather, heated front seats, electrically folding exterior mirrors, tinted rear windows, LED taillights and interior chrome trim.
Anything else?
Customers can pre-order the new Passat now and once the car is unveiled in October Volkswagen Ireland will host a number of dealer events to showcase the new model. With the equally new Ford Mondeo set to arrive in January too things are set for a family saloon slobberknocker for the '151' plate.