The Passat Variant is available in 1.8 Turbo 20V (110 kW) and 2.8 V6 (142 kW) models, both with 5-speed Tiptronic transmissions.

Managing director of Volkswagen in Australia, Ewan Ramsay, said the Variant has the attractive styling of the Passat sedan, launched in Australia earlier this year, but at the same time has the functionality and true versatility of a wagon.

"It takes the benchmarks for quality and value in the luxury sector, set by the Passat in Australia earlier this year, and brings them to the wagon market," Mr Ramsay said.

"We believe no other wagon can match the Passat Variant's combination of performance, safety, style and value."

The load space of the vehicle is impressive, with between 495 and 1600 litres of usable load space available.

Features specific to the Passat Variant include annodised roof rails, a removable cargo blind and a stainless steel cargo strip, to prevent damage caused by the wear and tear of unloading.

In addition, it contains all the performance features of the Passat sedan such as ABS, Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) traction control and a top speed of 211 km/h for the 1.8 20V Turbo and 229 km/h for the 2.8 V6 version.

The luxury features of the Passat Variant include climate control air conditioning, a CD player (6 stacker CD & cassette on V6 models), cruise control, remote central locking and multi-function indicator.

The Turbo model features sports front seats and an aluminium-style dashboard, while the V6 is finished in luxurious velour and walnut trim.

The Passat Variant also has Volkswagen safety features such as driver and front passenger air bags, front and outer rear seat belt pre-tensioners, 3-point seat belts for all five passengers, height adjustable front seats and seat belts, and adjustable head rests for all five seats.