VOLKSWAGEN'S Bora saloon will range in price from £14,395 to £19,880 when it goes on sale next month.

With its introduction, Volkswagen says it now offers customers buying a mid-size saloon two alternatives - the larger and more mature Passat, or the compact and sportier Bora.

The new Bora, named after an Adriatic wind, is about 30cm shorter than the Passat. It is distinguished by a prominent, angled grille with a large Volkswagen roundel, square headlights, a steeply-sloping rear window and a short, notch-back tail. The boot-lid opens down to bumper level.

Flared wheel-arches give a visual link to the new Beetle and all Boras have large 15in or 16in wheels. Like the Lupo and Golf, the Bora's body is fully-galvanised and comes with 12 years' cover against internal corrosion. Four airbags and anti-lock brakes are standard on all versions and the Bora's engine line-up gives the customer a choice of two diesel units and three petrol, all with the option of automatic transmission.

Story date: Wednesday 10 March

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