Volkswagen must have been doing something right to have sold more than 15 million Passats since the model name was introduced to the company's line-up, way back in 1973. However, the latest edition – the seventh generation – is virtually all-new.

For the 2011 model year, the car takes on a fresh appearance, both inside and out, with every panel and glass surface brand new – except for the roof.

It’s evolved under the skin too, with the latest technology and efficiency measures making it one of the most advanced and economical cars in the so-called upper medium sector.

Even with a diesel engine, it is whisper quiet – thanks to beefed-up soundproofing, extra thick windows, and a windscreen that features a thin plastic film sandwiched between two layers of glass to reduce noise transmission.

VW’s BlueMotion technology is featured on all diesel versions of the car, with battery regeneration and stop/start systems as standard.

As a result, the entry level 1.6 litre TDI 195 PS offers an amazing 65.7 mpg in the combined cycle.

S, SE and Sport trim levels are offered. Added to the new Passat over the outgoing model’s specification are such goodies as an i-Pod interface.

All versions come with six air-bags, ABS braking and an electronic stabilisatlon programme.

Standard on most new Passats is an automatic fatigue detection system, which monitors driver inputs and emits an audible and visual warning when tiredness is detected.

Optional is a new city emergency braking function that automatically applies the brakes at speeds below 18 mph if it senses a collision.

The SE TDi 2.0 I forecast to be the best-selling version, with the estate likely to outsell the salon or the first time and 80 per cent of sales going to companies rather than private buyers.

Prices range from an entry-level £18,875 for a 1.4 litre petrol-engined S TSi to a range-topping 2.0 Sport TDi diesel at £26,180.

My SE TDi 1.6 litre proved a willing beast, with good handling and steering responses, adequate performance and acres of space, the boot being truly cavernous and leg, head and shoulder room being more generous than in many far bigger bodied and more expensive executive cars.