THE UPMARKET VW Passat, the Passat CC, which features coupe like styling within a four-door saloon body, can now carry more passengers.

Volkswagen has slotted in an extra rear seat, so for the first time the Passat CC can accommodate five adults thanks to the addition of an extra space situated between the rear seats.

There should be less chance of getting lost, too. Satellite navigation is now standard, along with a touchscreen Bluetooth device.

This comes on top of the already comprehensive list of standard equipment: electronic climate control; leather steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake; 17-inch alloys; and six airbags.

The Passat CC GT model also gains Nappa leather interior, front and rear parking sensors and cruise control. Other standard features include: 18-inch alloys; ACC (Adaptive Chassis Control) electronically controlled pneumatic dampers; and heat insulating tinted glass from the B-pillar backwards.

While the prices of the Passat CC have risen, VW says the changes on the entry-level model represent an extra £1,000 worth of equipment for an additional £515 more than the model it replaces. On the GT model the Passat CC receives an extra £3,000 worth of equipment, says VW, for an overall price rise of £1,000.

The range of engines continues as before: 1.8-litre TSI, 2.0-litre TSI and 3.6-litre V6 petrol engines and a 2.0-litre TDI diesel.

VW Passat CC prices

Prices for the new VW Passat CC start at £22,645 on the road for the 1.8-litre TSI model. To download the full price list as a pdf with additional photographs, click on the highlighted link to commence the download: VW Passat CC prices.

Five seats plus additional specification upgrades