Before launching the Phaeton, VW presented a high-end version of the 4-wheel drive Passat at the end of 2001. Its engine remained unique in history: a W8 made up of two Golf VR6s, each with two fewer cylinders and arranged at an angle of 72 degrees. In total, 4000cc for 32 valves and 275 horsepower, a rather mediocre result but an enviable compactness (about 190 kg). Very discreet, the Passat W8 was distinguished only by a few small aesthetic details. Less than 10,000 were produced until 2004.