Volkswagen has publicly confirmed plans to build an upscale Passat with sleek coupe-like styling, but there's no need to wait for the 2008 models to see one - we have an artist's interpretation right here.

Volkswagen is planning to jump right in and take advantage of the popularity of the Mercedes CLS styling, and will offer their own German-built four-door coupe/sedan, codenamed "CC" at a far lower price.

The Passat Coupe isn't expected to be shown until the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, but details are already trickling out. Sources are telling us that the base engine on the coupe will be a four-cylinder with 150 horsepower; the top-of-the-line offerings will include a 280-horsepower 3.6-liter VR6 engine, and a 400-horsepower R36 turbocharged version. Hybrid versions are expected to follow shortly after the initial introduction.

The Passat coupe will be available with front-wheel drive or with the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system.

__________________
-
-