2006 Volkswagen Passat Preview

Other innovative new technologies available on the B6 Passat include Automatic Distance Control, a sort

A sort of 'intelligent' cruise control, dubbed Automatic Distance Control, will also be available. (Photo: Volkswagen Canada)

of 'intelligent' cruise control which uses radar to judge the speed of the vehicle in comparison to others on the road. Should a car ahead be traveling slower, ADC will automatically apply the brakes, preventing a potential collision. When the vehicle is no longer ahead, the car will accelerate, resuming the original preset speed.

Replacing the Monsoon audio system in the current Passat is an even more powerful ten-channel, 600-watt Dynaudio sound system with DVD player and LCD display. The audiophile-approved system is said to turn the Passat's interior into a concert hall, but it also doubles as an on-board navigation system and hands-free telephone via a Bluetooth module.

The new, state-of-the-art Climatronic two-zone digital climate control, derived from the Phaeton, is another luxurious

Volkswagen hopes that the new model will pick up right where the old left off. (Photo: Volkswagen Canada)

option which allows both the driver and passenger to tailor the cabin temperature to individual taste.

The Passat will be equipped for the first time with a new intelligent starting and locking system. It does away with the conventional key, and takes the non-traditional form of a one-piece transmitter. When in close proximity to the car, the receiver automatically locks and unlocks the car. The transmitter is then slid into a holder on the dashboard, and the driver can start the car via a touch-button.