Volkswagen has released the first images of the new Passat Alltrack, which is debuting at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show.

The Alltrack is based on the existing Passat Estate, adding the 4Motion four-wheel drive system and a raised ride height to give off-road ability.

The exterior has also been toughened front and rear underbody protection panels and flared side sills, offer added protection as well as a visual lift. Other features include matt chrome roof rails, window surrounds, grille and exterior mirror casings.

Although the same length and width as a standard Passat Estate, the suspension is raised to increase ground clearance from 135 to 165 mm, which also improves the ramp breakaway angle (significant when crossing the crest of a hill) from 9.5 to 12.8 degrees. Restyled front and rear bumpers increase the approach angle from 13.5 to 16 degrees, and the departure angle from 11.9 to 13.6 degrees.

As with other Volkswagen vehicles featuring 4Motion, on the Passat Alltrack the front axle is usually driven, with only 10 per cent of propulsive power going to the rear axle for maximum fuel efficiency. If necessary, almost 100 per cent of power can be sent to the rear axle, through use of an electrohydraulic Haldex clutch.

The Passat Alltrack also features an off-road mode, similar to that on the Tiguan Escape. When switched on (via a dashboard-mounted button), this activates hill descent assist, which automatically brakes the vehicle when the descent angle is greater than 10 degrees. The ABS function is also altered, with higher thresholds for operation on loose surfaces, along with faster-reacting electronic differential locks (EDS) to prevent wheelspin.

For vehicles fitted with DSG dual-clutch transmission, the shift pattern is also altered when off-road mode is engaged, with higher shift points to give more power, a flatter and easier to manage accelerator pedal movement and no automatic upshifting in manual mode.

In the UK, the Passat Alltrack will be available as a 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS with six-speed manual gearbox or a 2.0-litre TDI 170 PS with six-speed DSG transmission.

Retailers in the UK are expected to start taking orders for the new car in April, with first deliveries scheduled for July.