THE SE version was Volkswagen's best-selling Passat in Britain last year - it accounted for more than half of all sales - but it is now being replaced by a new variant, the Highline.

It gets more kit than the SE had, costs from £18,890 for the 1.8-litre petrol, and is on sale now.

Replacing the cloth trim is full Vienna leather upholstery complete with heated front seats, a multifunction steering wheel and a set of four carpet mats. This is in addition to the Passat's already comprehensive range of standard equipment which includes air conditioning, an eight-speaker stereo system and cruise control. Externally, the Passat Highline is distinguished by a set of new 17-inch Macau' multispoke alloy wheels - an upgrade from the SE's 16-inch rims. The SE's chrome window surrounds and body-coloured bumper strips remain. The new Passat Highline costs £250 more than the SE, with prices starting at £18,890.