Insurance Group: 23
MPG: 39.8
CO2: 165
0-62 Mph: 8.7 secs
BHP: 158 BHP
Range: 613 miles
However, performance figures are impressive and it compares well against class rivals.
Handling is not exceptional, as is often the complaint with Passat models, but the level of practicality is impressive and would suit a large family rather than a high mileage motorway driver.
PROS: For a relatively cheap initial outlay the entry level Volkswagen Passat S 1.8 TSI DSG Estate is good value for money. The seven speed automatic gearbox adds to the driveability of this car. The roomy 603 litre boot - which is nearly tripled when the backseats are folded down - will find favour with buyers who need a lot of cargo space.
CONS: Poor fuel consumption figures, at 39.8 mpg, make the Passat S1.8 TSI DSG Estate the least economical to run in the entire range of Passat saloons and estates.
The 1798 cc 16 valve engine produces a healthy 158 bhp at 5,000 rpm and delivers 185 lb ft of torque in the same power band.
It takes just 8.7 seconds to travel from stand still to 62 mph making it one of the quickest cars in the entire range and certainly the fastest estate.
It has a well-appointed cabin and the driving position is comfortable, but this car will be more at home on congested city streets than out in the country. However a top speed of 138 mph will make motorway driving easy.
Passets in general are not noted for their great handling but if most of your driving is urban rather than rural this will not be an issue.
Standard power steering adds to the driving experience, but not a unique enough addition to make the car stand out from crowd.
Although not a great looking car, it is not bland by any means and a set of alloy wheels issued as standard improve the exterior styling. The estate version is probably more attractive than its saloon siblings. Its large presence on the road gives it a purposeful feel.
The standard equipment includes power steering, central locking, electric front windows and mirrors. MP3 and Bluetooth connectivity enhance the cabin, but satellite navigation and cruise control will set you back an additional £705 and £265 respectively, which seems excessive for items that are offered as standard by rivals in the class.
If you regularly have the need to transport five adults, the estate version will offer more room than the saloon, especially for those sitting in the back. The 603 litre boot should be enough for most, with 1731 litres with the seats down.
Standard driver, passenger and side impact airbags are to be expected on such a car, as is the factory fitted stability control. Air conditioning is standard too.
Security concerns are taken care of by a factory fitted alarm and immobiliser.
As a cheap entry level estate, the Volkswagen Passat S 1.8 TSI DSG represents good value for money. It is a practical estate that offers a good driving experience on the whole. Fuel economy is not the best, with the engine getting 39.8 mpg, and the emissions of 165 g/km are also average.
If your budget could stretch to allow for another two grand or so, we recommend you look at the diesel engine Sport 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology version.
The latter version has far better performance figures - fuel consumption is the best in the range - and it will hold its value better, the extra outlay could potentially be recouped at the filling station.
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