A universal 'meh' spreads across the internet when it is time to reveal the European Car Of The year. Chosen by a group of automotive journalists coming from across, well, Europe, there is a habit of choosing some right clangers for this prestigious title. Last year, the award went to the Peugeot 308. Consequently, I'm not sure people care any more.
In 2015, the award went to....the Volkswagen Passat. A very capable car, I am sure. But one that represents the continual march forward of the automobile? I'm not so sure.
Thankfully, at the 2015 International Geneva Motor Show, there were a couple of new Passat variants that are just a little bit more interesting than the vanilla ECOTY winner.
First up, from Volkswagen itself, it's the new Alltrack. Running VW's Permanent 4Motion all-wheel drive system paired to electronic locking diffs, a raised ride height and grey exterior body cladding, the Alltrack is aiming to strike a balance between a little extra usability, but not too over-sized like an SUV. Think along the lines of extra capability in a muddy festival car park and you'll be along the right lines. Expect pricing to be around the £30,000 mark, with 2 petrol and 3 diesel engines available, ranging from 148bhp to an interesting 237bhp.
If, however, 237bhp is not enough, then ABT will do what Volkswagen will not. That is, sell you one with the 2.0 TDI engine turned up to 11. Well, 280 (bhp) in fact. The extra 40bhp is sure to add a little extra spice to the Passat, along with massive wheels, brakes and tyres. They've also fiddled with the styling to match the increased oomph, thanks to aggressive side skirts, spitters and added chrome. As exciting as all this sounds however, I have absolutely no idea who would want to buy a quick Passat. The car is meant to be a sensible, practical, family car. Bolting on performance upgrades seems a little obtuse in my eyes. But hey, it exists, go buy it if it tickles your fancy.
Why not read: Subaru Answer The Question No One Asked, But We Are Glad They Did! - Subaru Levorg, Geneva International Motor Show 2015
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