It might not be flashy but it’s impressive: the new high-efficiency BlueMotion model fits perfectly into VW’s well-regarded Passat midsize sedan range. Like the Polo BlueMotion that launched in Europe last year, the Passat utilizes numerous tweaks and enhancements to make it as efficient as possible. There’s even a feature that advises the driver when to change gear for maximum efficiency.

Powered by a 105-horsepower 1.9-liter diesel, the Passat is no slouch. But with special engine control software, lowered ride height, longer gear ratios, low rolling resistance tires, and other enhancements, it’s capable of 55 mpg. That translates to CO₂ emissions of just 136 g/km, remarkable for a car of its size and capability.

Expect more BlueMotion models—VW announced that this is now ongoing program. As Europe’s No. 1, a spokesman explained, the company has the responsibility and the ability to develop environmentally sensitive products.

Golf Variant

Ability was also the theme of the Golf Variant, a wagon version of the VW’s bestseller and the longest Golf produced to date, which was unveiled with a soccer skit. As a trio of boys kitted out in VW colors maneuvered soccer balls around the stage while the car’s merits were discussed. The message was clear: this is a capable, practical car for the sporty the young family. And that’s probably a fair assessment.

It’ll be offered with two gasoline and two diesel engines (the smaller of which exactly matches the Passat BlueMotion’s consumption figures) in the same Trendline, Comfortline and Sportline trim packages as the standard Golf.

Redesigned Phaeton

For the ultimate ability, though, you have to turn to the Phaeton. VW’s stunningly capable but unloved ultra-luxury sedan has been a slow seller, but rather than killing it off the company has given it a makeover. The face-lifted version gets an array of upgrades and new technologies, including lane change warning, adaptive cruise control, and a clean EURO-5 emissions compliant engine (well in advance of the 2009 deadline).

VW’s worthy presentation and Phaeton’s return to the limelight could be a sign of things to come, and the reason for it was sitting in the front row of the press conference. Ferdinand Piech drove the Phaeton project through when he was in charge VW—now, thanks to various business interests, his influence is being felt again at VW.