Spied again: Volkswagen Passat Coupe with no camo!

Earlier this year, spy photographers spotted the upcoming Volkswagen four-door Passat Coupe -- now simply called the Volkswagen Coupe -- testing in the southwest U.S., but it appears as though the prototype is now undergoing a round of cold weather testing. Comparisons to the Mercedes-Benz CLS also seem to be confirmed, as the Coupe was joined by a CLS on its latest test run.

Since it was last spotted, the VW Coupe has shed most of its camouflage. The front end is typical VW and looks to take some styling cues from the Phaeton. The Coupe's overall size looks to be about the same as the CLS and its rear almost has the appearance of a fastback.

Recent rumors have suggest the car will arrive at the Detroit auto show in January and with this prototype looking production ready, those rumors look to be true. Slated to cost around 30,000 euros, the high-end Volkswagen will steer clear of Audi's 44,000 euro A5.

Engine output is expected to start at 160 horsepower via a 1.8 liter TSI. A 2.0 liter turbo diesel will also be offered, with 140 horsepower and a slightly higher price tag. Lastly, a range-topping FSI V6 with 300 horsepower, all-wheel-drive and a dual-clutch transmission will come in at 40,000 euros.

Special order features will include a glass roof, reverse camera, and proximity sensors for parking.

December 14, 2007