New Passat has the best of both worlds

Volkswagen Centre Bahrain kickstarted the year with the launch of the Passat CC in Bahrain. The car represents a brand new segment in the automobile industry combining a saloon and a sports coupŽ, writes SHILPA CHANDRAN.

Felix Miranda, brand manager Volkswagen Centre Bahrain, said: "The Passat CC is the first time that Volkswagen has brought together a concept combining both a coupŽ philosophy with a practical saloon, incorporating the best of both worlds.

"The coupŽ design is echoed in its progressive performance-orientated and dynamic equipment programme and the saloon is achieved by its four door concept, its four fully sized seats and a significant level of interior variability.

"The concept and design of the Passat CC defines fresh, new directions beyond the mainstream. Its fully independent body design, impressive power train systems and technological features worthy of the luxury class, meld together to create a unique vehicle that is one of a kind."

Despite the launch coming in the midst of a recession he added: "We have already sold two Passat CCs, one black and one white. We also received a lot of inquiries and interest in the car before its launch. The recession has created fear in people's minds so even if they have the money they don't try to spend it unless they need to.

"We have also noticed that many people who have been coming into our showroom to check our cars are very new arrivals to the island and awaiting their CPR procedures to purchase a car."

This Passat has been redesigned in the rear seating area as well as the steering consol.

In conjunction with the Rear Assist parking assistance system, when driving in reverse images of the surroundings behind the Passat CC are transmitted to a screen from a rear view camera.

Volkswagen will be offering the Passat CC exclusively with highly advanced direct injection engines in the Middle East featuring a 1.8 TSI engine with power output of 118 kw/160 hp (at 5,000 rpm) and a 2 TSI with power output of 147 kw/200 hp (at 5,100 rpm).

The new Passat CC is now available at Behbehani Brothers Volkswagen showroom, Sitra and costs BD15,800. For details contact 17459974.