2008 Volkswagen Passat

Using a highly innovative piezo pump high-pressure jet injection system, the new engines produce 22kW more power and 30Nm more torque than the older generation units, which coincidently, Volkswagen is still selling!

The 2008 lineup now includes the new 125kW 2.0-litre diesel ($44,990*), as well as the old 103kW 2.0-litre diesel (reduced to $42,490*) with a price difference of $2,500.

The new and more powerful variant goes from 0-100km/h in 8.6 seconds (sedan), over 1 second faster than the existing model.

With more emphasis on a lower entry price, Volkswagen has downgraded the 'Le Mans' 17" alloy wheels on the 103kW variant to 'Milwaukee' 16" alloys, a saving of $500.

The range also includes a 2.0-litre turbo variant with 147kW and 280Nm of torque ($44,490*) and everyone's favourite, the top of the range, 4WD, 3.2-litre V6, with 184kW and 330Nm of torque ($54,490*).

The new Passat range has so far proved to be a success story for Volkswagen, with the German brand continuing a period of growth in Australia.

Volkswagen's more affordable arm, Skoda, is all set for a comeback starting at next month's Australian International Motor Show in Sydney.

* all prices are for Sedan models, Wagons are $2,000 more across the range