Expect the Alltrack to receive five stars results in Euro NCAP crash tests. You can also pick from myriad safety systems on the option list. Buyers can specify fatigue detection, front assist with city emergency detection, traffic sign detection, park assist second generation, light assist and a side assist lane-changing warning system. You’ll have to shell out extra for them, however.

The optional new city emergency braking function, a part of the Automatic Distance Control system, automatically engages the brakes at speeds below 18mph if it thinks a front-end crash is imminent. The system is also able to accelerate the vehicle automatically should it detect an imminent rear end collision, providing the vehicle sees a clear space ahead.

The automatic fatigue detection system adds to the complement of safety systems. It monitors the driver’s inputs and automatically emits an audible and visual warning to recommend a break if required. The traffic sign detection reads speed limit signs and no-passing zones, and up to three of these signs are shown on the driver information cluster. As with previous Passat models, the Electronic Stabilisation Programme incorporates Trailer Stabilisation when a factory fitted towbar is specified.

The VW Passat Alltrack is one of the most practical cars around. The boot has a great deal of room, and with the seats in place there’s 603 litres of loadspace to play with. That’s more than enough for a set of golf clubs. If you need even more space then fold the seats flat and you’ll be pleased to find that the load space expands to 1,641 litres. So how does the Passat Alltrack fare in the space race when looking at its direct rivals?

The Audi A4 Allroad has a load space of 490 litres and 1,430 litres respectively, while the Volvo XC70 has a luggage space of 815 litres or 1,600 litres. There are plenty of cubbies for mobile phones and loose change, and the door pockets are of a good size. The suspension has been raised, which means the Alltrack has maximum ground clearance of 165mm.

That’s 30mm more than the standard Passat. The raised suspension improves the ramp breakover angle, important when crossing the crest of a hill, from 9.5 degrees to 12.8 degrees. The bigger bumpers have improved the approach angle, as well as giving the car a more rugged look. The Passat Alltrack also features hill decent assist, which automatically brakes the vehicle when the descent angle is greater than 10 degrees, while the anti-lock brakes have been altered to provide stronger braking on loose surfaces.

The car features faster-reacting electronic differential locks – called EDS – to help prevent wheelspin too. The towing capacity is fairly good at 2,000kg, 200kg more than the standard Passat.