Next Gen VW Passat Mule Spied again at Nurburgring

The spies on the 'Ring caught another glimpse of the 2012 Volkswagen Passat test mule.  Although wearing the skin of the current Passat, we are able to glean a few details of the upcoming big seller.

With the elongated body we can expect to see more cabin room inside the new Passat, but not just legroom for the rear passengers.  Wider fenders indicate the possibility of a little more elbow space as well.  The spy believes Volkswagen will make more use of lightweight materials this time around, meaning the bigger body may not translate into more weight.  We hope that a bigger model is not the only change to the exterior styling, and that VW makes the new Passat more bold and less dull.

Several rumors abound about engine choices for the car.  Many expect a 3.0-liter V6 petrol model producing 280 horsepower, but some expect to see a large diesel version that produces about 300 hp, while a hybrid edition using the 3.0-L V6 could also be on the horizon.

Look for the 4Motion all-wheel-drive to be available for this Passat, as well as the eight-speed DSG transmission.  Automatic parking, parking cameras, airless tires, and windshield cleaning sans wipers.  Another rumor going around is the use of magnetic, low-voltage paint that allows the driver to change color by adjusting the current.