VOLKSWAGEN'S most recent (fifth) generation Passat has always pitched itself as a car at the refined end of the mid-size saloon sector, far removed from volume offerings from the likes of Ford and Vauxhall.

The formula has been largely successful, but the car has not been without its critics.

At a time when rivals boast better driving manners and more cabin space, the Passat was starting to look outclassed.

With the arrival of the sixth generation car, Volkswagen has addressed a number of the old model's issues and, as a result, managed to bump it up a notch in automotive social circles.

The latest Passat is now tasked with the dual role of tempting buyers of top-spec volume models and those who would otherwise have opted for a BMW, Audi, Mercedes or even a Jaguar.

At first glance it looks like the Passat might succeed, but only if you like chrome. The shiny stuff adorns the car's new nose, which is fashioned in the shape of a large, wide "V", similar in design to the de-chromed snout of the Golf GTI.

The Passat saloon's rump is equally eye-catching, but for a different reason. The boot is largely fuss-free in design terms, and the various panels are devoid of the usual fussy creases and details.

That said, like the car's nose, the tail is host to a pair of extrovert light clusters.

On paper the Passat does not appear to have grown significantly. The raw figures are 62mm, 74mm and 10mm for the length, width and height respectively.

In the metal the car looks much larger than before. Thanks to its generous overhangs front and rear, the impression of size is greatly enhanced and no doubt part of VW's plan to spook the premium opposition.

However, the extra millimetres soon become apparent when you step inside. Look past the car's vast, sweeping fascia and similarly extravagant centre console, and the ability to sit alongside a fellow adult without bashing elbows is a welcome feeling. Legroom is equally generous, as is headroom.

Rear seat occupants fare even better. Legroom is more than acceptable - even when sitting behind someone very tall and headroom is more than adequate.

Shuttling important clients from airport to business meeting will no longer be an embarrassing task, especially when you consider that the boot has grown by 90 litres to a cavernous 565 litres.

The good news continues with the car's improved ride and handling. Though it boasted a plush ride, the old Passat was never a driver's car in the same vein as Ford's Mondeo or any other front-wheel drive rival. Thankfully, things have changed for the better. Lightweight suspension components, a chassis tuned for enjoyment, steering that feels weighty and responsive and a collection of eager engines all contribute to a much better experience.

You never forget that this Passat is a big car, but it will happily go where you point it on twisty roads and feels stable and secure when tackling long, fast sweeping bends.

On motorways the limo-like feeling inherited from the Phaeton is instantly apparent - the only impression of speed is the distant hum of the engine and the wind around the external mirrors and windscreen pillars.

It's difficult to fault the Passat on the road. A vast improvement on its predecessor, it's now possible to recommend the car, without reservation, to anyone with even a drop of petrol in their veins.

But petrol will be the last thing you'll want to put in the Passat. No hard feelings VW, but your diesel engines trounce the petrol units, even if enthusiastic driving is not on the agenda.

UK buyers get a comprehensive range of motors, from the firm's modest 1.6-litre FSI petrol to a gutsy 138bhp, two-litre diesel unit.

The end of 2005 will see more of the good stuff in the shape of a 168bhp two-litre diesel and flagship petrol V6 plus VW's 4Motion four-wheel drive option.

Of the lot, the 138bhp oil-burner is the best all-rounder. It might sound a little noisy when cold but it soon quietens down and pulls like a train whatever gear you're in.

In manual form you've got six to choose from, while there is the option of a DSG gearbox.

Not satisfied with making the Passat a more attractive and accommodating car to drive, the firm also splashed out on new toys. With some of them being optional, you'll have to splash out too.

Decent audio systems are joined by a fast-acting sat-nav system complete with a big colour screen, and one of those fashionable hands-free Bluetooth connections for your mobile phone. Fancy air-con can be had, depending on the trim level, while the Passat's cabin is positively stuffed full of airbags.

Electronic safety aids are everywhere but the car's electric parking brake is new and surprisingly intuitive to use.

Look past the Passat's executive class touches and the harsh reality is that this car will still be required to work for a living - if the previous model's bias towards fleet customers is maintained.

For the hard working, mile-eating company type, this is no bad thing, as the Passat will prove to be a great place to spend some serious time and a convincing alternative to the other German rivals.

For more information, call Martins VW on 01256 867010.