Volkswagen has designed a new Passat specifically for the American market. Not only is it built in the home of the brave, at a brand new plant in Tennessee, but it caters perfectly for that market by being both bigger and cheaper than the outgoing VW Passat.
When it goes on sale in the USA later this year it will cost the equivalent of around R50 000 less than the outgoing Passat (entry level models starting at about R136 000).
Although it's likely that this Passat would have lost some sophistication in the process, it still offers fully independent suspension at all ends, with multi-link at the back, and standard features like automatic climate control and Bluetooth connectivity.
It also offers a range of optional equipment with goodies like electric leather seats, touchscreen entertainment system, static cornering lights and keyless entry and start being available for those happy to pay extra.
Aimed squarely at the like of Toyota's Camry, which is the best selling passenger car in the USA, VW bills this new Passat as the only midsize sedan that offers superior German engineering at an accessible price. Its claimed best-in-class rear legroom will surely add to its appeal although there's no word on how its cupholder count stacks up with rivals.
The engine line-up kicks off with a 127kW 2.5-litre five-cylinder petrol and buyers can also opt for a 209kW 3.6-litre V6 petrol or a 104kW 2.0 TDI turbodiesel.
Of course, this Passat will not be sold in Europe or any other corner of the globe besides China perhaps.