2012 Volkswagen Passat Price Drops by $7,000

To show just how serious they are - they've announced the price of the new 2012 Volkswagen Passat: $7,000 less than the current 2010 version.

When the new Passat hits dealer showrooms later this year, the starting price will be around $20,000.

This will make the Passat much more competitive price-wise with the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord - and will almost match the starting price of Hyundai's Sonata.

Although the price makes the Passat more attractive, there are a couple of issues that might hurt sales.

Some have criticized the styling as being too bland and boring. (You can judge for yourself below)

The other issue - Volkswagen is building the Passat in a brand new $1 billion manufacturing plant.

Whenever a new model is introduced, it usually encounters production and quality problems in its first year.

Since the Passat is being built in a brand new manufacturing plant, this adds an additional factor that may contribute to more quality problems.

Nevertheless, if you're considering a Hyundai Sonata this year, you should definitely check out the Passat as well.