Volkswagen Passat Sport 2.0 TDI (170ps) BlueMotion Technology 4dr Car Review - March 2012

REVIEW
Awaiting more images
List Price: £25,120
Tax Band: C
Insurance Group: 24
MPG: 61.4
CO2: 120
0-62 Mph: 8.6 secs
BHP: 168 BHP
Range: 945 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3.5/5
The performance levels of this diesel car would put many petrol engine rivals to shame. An amazing fuel consumption figure of 61.4 mpg is sure to find favour with high-mileage drivers.
Volkswagen’s brilliant stop/start BlueMotion Technology system contributes greatly to the miserly consumption figures. A top speed of 138 mph makes it one of the quickest diesel engine motors on the market.

The six speed manual gearbox works well with the 1968 cc diesel engine, but overall the Passat is not the best handling car in its class but the addition of a sports suspension on this model makes it more refined than its two siblings. It will serve its purpose as a motorway cruiser very well.

PROS:  Exceptional fuel economy figures aided by the stop start BlueMotion Technology system make the Sport 2.0 TDI (170ps) one of the most frugal Passats in the entire range. Volkswagen’s legendary diesel engines will rarely be a cause of concern for unreliability.

CONS:  Certainly won’t win too many hearts in the looks department and not exactly fun to drive. Limited cabin space, especially in the rear, will not accommodate five adults in comfort despite being listed as a five seater.

Behind the Wheel

The 1968 cc 16 valve diesel engine delivers an impressive 168 bhp at 4,200 rpm making the Volkswagen Passat Sport 2.0 Litre TDI (170 ps) BlueMotion Technology one of the most powerful large family saloon cars in the class.

Brilliant torque figures of 258 lb ft at 1750 rpm also makes it one of the quickest cars in the range. It takes just 8.5 seconds to reach 62mph from standstill and a top speed of 141 mph ensure an exciting drive.

Looks & Equipment

The Passat was never known for its good looks and whilst this current version is the best produced so far, it is still nothing to write home about. A set of standard alloy wheels help offset this negative point.

The standard equipment levels are on par with any car in its class. Power steering, central locking, electric front windows and mirrors are standard fare. MP3 and Bluetooth connectivity enhance the cabin and this version comes equipped with a satellite navigation system and climate control that are only available as very expensive options on its two sister models.

Rear parking sensors will cost an additional £465 at the checkout and leather seats are an extra £1350.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

Although listed as a five seater, many adults may disagree when on a long journey - it suits four people much better. This is not to say the car is uncomfortable, however rear leg room is just a little compromising for five adults.

The 565 litre boot should meet the needs of any family, but the aforementioned five adults will struggle to get all their luggage in there.

Standard driver and passenger, plus side impact air bags are standard features as are the factory fitted stability control and cruise control. Security issues are covered with a factory fit alarm and immobiliser.

Value for Money

At £24,855 the Volkswagen Passat Sport 2.0 Litre TDI (170ps) BlueMontion Technology may seem a little excessive, but you do get a lot of car for your money.

It is the best equipped and best performing in the three car saloon range in the Pasatt family and whilst the initial cost may be a deterrent to some, it will hold its value better in the long run.

The impressive fuel consumption figures should act as a sufficient counter to the purchase price. Potential buyers should also look at the Volkswagen Passat Sport 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology estate before making a decision. It is slightly less equipped and more expensive but the extra space may be a deciding factor.

Volkswagen Passat Sport 2.0 TDI (170ps) BlueMotion Technology 4dr Car Review - by 
All Volkswagen Passat Reviews
Volkswagen Passat S 1.4 TSI BlueMotion Technology DSG 4dr - March 2012
The Volkswagen Passet S 1.4 TSI BlueMotion Technology DSG is a very comfortable machine and will find favour with buyers who do a lot of long distance driving, although the diesel option is more f...
Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion 1.6 TDI 4dr - February 2012
The affordability of the Passat BlueMotion 1.6 TDI makes it a fantastic choice for those looking for a well-made and robust large family car. The Passat has a reputation for being dependable and re...
Volkswagen Passat SE 1.8 TSI 4dr - March 2012
A well laid out cabin with loads of kit for a great price, makes the SE 1.98 a good value for money car. However, if you are looking for something more exciting, then a Ford Mondeo might be more fu...
Volkswagen Passat SE 1.6 TDI BlueMotion Technology 4dr - March 2012
The Volkswagen Passat is a car that is an accomplished saloon car that is perfect for motorway driving, but is also very good on country roads and in urban areas. The BlueMotion engine is able to ...
Volkswagen Passat Sport 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Technology DSG 4dr - March 2012
The Volkswagen Passat is a model that has seen a number of face-lifts over the years, and it is a practical and efficient car that is able to deliver a very good driving experience on the motorway,...
Comments
Large Family Alternatives

You might want to read reviews for other Large Family cars that you can then compare to the Volkswagen Passat. Here are some popular Volkswagen Passat alternatives:

NEW RELEASE
Jeep Avenger revealed for 2023
NEW RELEASE
Ferrari Purosangue revealed
NEW RELEASE
Ford Mustang revealed for 2023
NEW RELEASE
New BMW M2 has been revealed
NEW RELEASE
Electric SUV coming soon
NEW RELEASE
Popular hatchback gets an update