Volkswagen's Passat replacement for the U.S. was originally expected as early as next year, but now it seems that it may be 2012 when sedans roll out of VW's new Chattanooga factory. VW is splitting up Passat production to give the U.S. and China a larger car. This is in a similar fashion to how Honda makes two separate Accords (the European version of the Accord is a smaller car and is sold in the U.S. as the Acura TSX.)

Volkswagen announced its mid-sized sedan designed for the US market will make its debut in 2012. Before that two other models will be replaced: the next-generation Golf will be launched this year and Jetta next year.

The design for the new sedan has been approved and the first prototypes has already been shown and dealers has been very excited about it.

Compared to the Passat, the new sedan will be bigger and sleeker, and it has items necessary for Americans -- space, seat comfort, cupholders, Bluetooth and other electronics. Very importantly, it remains a VW. It has been totally designed and engineered for the needs of American consumers. Prices will start at around $20K.