Volkswagen isn't planning on bringing out the next-generation European Passat until late 2013 or early 2014, however the German automaker has already gotten a head-start on the project as tests have begun on the new station wagon. The Passat test mule seen here was undergoing cold weather testing in Europe. The 2014 Passat will run on the new flexible MQB platform, slated to make its debut on the new Audi A3 next month.

On these prototypes, we can see the wider fenders showing that the new Passat will probably have a slightly wider track and should offer more space in the interior, especially at the rear seat. The instrument cluster and parts of the dash were covered up, so we assume that these mules are already fitted with some parts of the new interior.