Volkswagen now offering plug-in hybrid Passat

Passat GTE model aims to deliver big efficiency gains.

Words Maurice Malone Published 24 May 2016

What's the news?

Volkswagen's hybrid Passat is now on sale in Ireland. The Passat GTE joins the Golf GTE in the German brand's PHEV line-up, and utilises the same 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine as its smaller sibling. Joining this is an electric motor to bring total output to an impressive 215hp and 400Nm of torque, transmitted through the proven DSG automatic gearbox. Of particular interest is the car's capability to travel up to 50km on pure electric power, while the combined range is over 1,100km (with a charged battery and full tank of fuel of course). The GTE can hit 130km/h in electric-only mode, and with both engine and motor engaged will dispense with the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds, so it's no slouch. Regenerative braking features to facilitate recharging of the lithium-ion battery while driving, in addition to the plug-in capability.

Externally, a blue line across the front grille and C-shaped LED running lights distinguish it from the conventional Passat models in the range, while on the dash the rev counter is replaced by an energy indicator and battery charge display.

For tech-savvy users, the 'Car-Net e-remote' app will allow various functions such as charging and air conditioning to be controlled from a smartphone, and it also has a neat feature notifying the owner of where the car was last parked.

The GTE loses a 180-litre underfloor storage compartment and gains 280kg in overall weight compared to the regular 1.4-litre TSI Passat.

Volkswagen Ireland will offer the Passat GTE in both saloon and estate formats; prices start from €41,450 and €43,715 respectively including SEAI grant and VRT rebate. Selected dealers nationwide will offer the PHEV range, so for more details visit the Volkswagen Ireland site.

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