CAP’s residual value forecasts for the new Volkswagen Passat range will make worrying reading for the firm’s volume selling rivals.

As well as low front-end prices, Volkswagen’s new challenger has predicted residual values almost unheard of for a high-volume upper-medium saloon.

CAP estimates the Passat line-up will retain 37-41% of its cost new after three years and 60,000 miles. In comparison, Ford’s Mondeo saloon range varies between 22% and 26%, while the Vauxhall Vectra is between 22% and 24%.

However, the figures are based on full list prices and running costs could be significantly swayed by discounts.