What you see here are the first spy pictures of the next-generation Volkswagen Passat Estate. Previous spy activity uncovered the sedan version. The Estate is expected on showroom floors some time in 2012. With all that camouflage it is quite difficult to see exactly what kind of lines we can expect, suffice to say the front grille will reflect VW's current style.

Our spies also reported that it looks to have a lower suspension than the current model, suggesting a sportier mama's car than before. Despite this, interior passenger and loading space will increase.

Powertrains will be shared with some VW Group vehicles and include 2.0 TDI engines, V6 motors, DSG gearboxes and 4Motion AWD systems. A BlueMotion hybrid is also on the cards.

Technologies rumoured include a wiperless windscreen, all-angle exterior cameras, a self-parking system, LED technology and cutting-edge weight-saving construction techniques.

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