Volkswagen will launch the next generation of its Phaeton flagship in 2015 in an attempt to overturn the negative trend of the current model, which never really made in impact in the marketplace. According to CarMagazine, a first concept version of the car could have made its debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, but apparently VW decided to drop the idea in order to keep the focus on the little Up! model. Based on the new MLM Evo platform, the next Phaeton will boast an aluminum-intensive body structure and will be able to accomodate a plug-in hybrid system. It might also have an altogether different type of bodywork.

Heavily criticized because of its conservative styling, the Phaeton could now return to the 5-door formula that was anticipated by VW’s Concept D in 1999 - pictured - or turn into a big and luxurious station wagon, which would make it become an alternative to the super classic saloon car. However, nowadays the word ‘flagship’ has to be weighed according to new standards: the Phaeton MK2 will be positioned between Audi A6 and A8, it will cost less than the current model and will be equipped with smaller engines, with 4 and 6 cylinders as well as the hybrid version.

View the full Volkswagen Phaeton picture gallery

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