VW looking to build replacements for Passat, Jetta

A cheaper replacement for the Volkswagen Passat developed primarily for the United States will likely go to a U.S. plant expected to be announced this week, according to Automotive News.

Eventually, a Jetta replacement also could be assembled there, the publication said.

VW’s management board reportedly favors Huntsville, Ala., as the site for the new U.S. plant.

Chattanooga’s Enterprise South Industrial Park is considered the second choice, but officials here remain upbeat on their chances.

The VW management board, headed by CEO Martin Winterkorn, is scheduled to make its recommendation today, Automotive News said. The supervisory board, headed by former VW group CEO Ferdinand Piech, will make its decision Tuesday.

VW is considering adding to the factory a new mid-sized SUV, also under development, the publication said.

See tomorrow’s Chattanooga Times Free Press for complete coverage.